Breastfeeding Provides Powerful Benefits (And How to Make It Work When You're Away)

Breastfeeding offers unmatched nutritional and immune-boosting benefits for your baby—and important health advantages for moms, too. But for many working parents, exclusively breastfeeding can feel out of reach. The good news? With the right support and storage strategies, you can continue to provide breast milk even when you're not physically present.

In honor of National Breastfeeding Month, we're diving into why breastmilk is so uniquely beneficial—and how to make it work for modern families.

Why Breastfeeding Matters

Breastmilk isn't just food—it's medicine, comfort, immunity, and connection in one. Unlike formula, breastmilk contains:

• Live antibodies that help your baby fight off infections
• Prebiotics and probiotics that support gut health
• Hormones and enzymes that promote development
• Nutrients that adapt to your baby's changing needs

Moms benefit too! Breastfeeding has been linked to:

• Reduced risk of breast and ovarian cancer
• Faster postpartum recovery
• Lower risk of postpartum depression

Key Takeaway: Formula is a safe alternative when needed, but breastmilk offers powerful protective qualities that formula can't replicate.

Tips for Breastfeeding When You’re Not Always Home

Returning to work or using childcare doesn’t have to mean the end of breastfeeding. Here are some tips to make it easier:

1. Start Pumping Early‍

Begin pumping a few weeks before returning to work so you can build a freezer stash and get comfortable with your pump.

2. Use Proper Storage Guidelines

• Freshly pumped milk: Store in fridge for up to 4 days
• Frozen milk: Safe for up to 6 months (12 in a deep freezer)
• Thawed milk: Use within 24 hours

3. Label Everything‍

Include the date and time pumped on all bottles or storage bags—this helps caregivers use the oldest milk first.

4. Coordinate With Caregivers‍

Make sure your nanny or childcare provider knows how to properly warm and handle breastmilk (never microwave it).

5. Invest in a Good Cooler Bag‍

A reliable insulated cooler with ice packs makes transporting pumped milk safe and stress-free.

Supporting Your Feeding Journey

Every family’s situation is different. Some parents exclusively breastfeed, others pump and supplement with formula, and some switch to formula entirely. There’s no one "right" way—but knowing the benefits of breastmilk can help you make informed choices.

If you need help, BASS Medical Group’s pediatricians, OB/GYNs, and midwifes are here to support you with lactation referrals, checkups, and personalized guidance.

Breastfeeding isn’t always easy. But when it works, it works wonders.