Sue writes:

I have recently pulled all the information that I have in my possession =
on milk storage from organizations and private entities such as Lamaze, =
Pump companies, LaLeche, and private practice LCs and not to my suprise =
found a significant amount of discrepancy.  Here is what I found:  =
freshly pumped at room temp - 4 hours, others 6 hours and LaLeche =
stretches to 10hours while others suggest 1 1/2 hours.  The parameters =
for freezing are wide e.g. 3-6, 6-12 making one wonder - "which is it?"  =
I have always followed LaLeche guidlines, but would appreciate others =
input on this.

Sue,

In my position, I spend much of my time talking to mothers and clinicians
about milk storage.  Many of the variations you cite are not so much
"discrepancies" as differences in definition.  For example, the guidelines
on "room temperature" varies considerably depending on the exact
temperature of the room.  On the magnet that comes with the Ameda pumps,
room temperature is defined as "66 degrees F to 72 degrees F" and the
storage time is listed as 10 hours, which is consistent with the research.

When I talked with Barbara Wilson-Clay about the new Medela guidelines,
she told me that they decided to use a higher room temperature range
(which lowered their storage time to 4 hours).  As as we discussed this,
we realized that where Barbara lives (Austin TX) what is "normal" room
temperature varies considerably from where I live (Chicago IL).  Barbara
told me that in Austin, no one's room is 66 to 72 degrees F, but as I told
her, for most of the year, many people in this area keep their heat low
and that that is a very common room temperature range.

When looking at the reasearch, it helps to be aware of these specifics.
Also, not all studies absolutely agree, which is why a range is often
used.

While it would simplify things if there was one definitive answer, life
(at least *my* life!) tends to be more complicated than that.

When in doubt, ask for the references and read them.  Many of your
questions would be best answered that way.

Nancy Mohrbacher, IBCLC
Lactation Education Specialist, Hollister, Inc.





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