Teething is an eventful period in an infant’s growth, so frozen breast milk teething is often used.
However, it is often painful, which leads to sleepless nights.
Sore gums in teething toddlers may be accompanied by extreme drooling and crankiness.
Quite a number of parents are coming up with alternative ways to alleviate their babies’ pain.
One such method that has begun to be embraced is the use of frozen breast milk to relieve pain during teething.
This approach is relatively simple because it is safe and efficient in providing relief to infants while nourishing them.
In this article, we will seek to address the advantages of frozen breast milk in teething, how to prepare milk teethers, how safe they are, and the additional alternatives to breast milk in the case of natural teething remedies.
What Is Frozen Breast Milk Teething?
Frozen breast milk teething is the process whereby the expressed milk is put inside frostable containers.
Once frozen, the baby is encouraged to chew on them to relieve the teething pain.
The dense and frozen milk not only soothes the infant’s ailing gums but also quenches their hunger.
For most parents, the technique has been found to be a very effective remedy for teething problems. It lets the baby enjoy the benefits of breast milk while soothing their gums.
There is a practical reason why breast milk is also referred to as ‘liquid gold.’ Its essential nutrient content is crucial and abundant in nature.
Benefits of Using Frozen Breast Milk for Teething
Natural and Safe
Frozen breast milk can be used as opposed to commercial teething gels that tend to contain chemicals or preservatives.
Additionally, parents are aware of the food the baby is eating, and there is no question about anything artificial being in what the baby consumes.
Nutritional Therapy
Breast milk has earned the name “liquid gold” because of its numerous essential nutrients.
The quality and nutritional values of breast milk are very beneficial for babies even when they are still teething since they suck and chew on the frozen breast milk.
Softening Comfort
When used due to pain and swelling, frozen breast milk or a frozen breast milk pacifier provides soothing effects on sore gums.
Most babies love biting on something cold.
Amazingly, frozen breast milk is a great food option and a multipurpose convenience for breastfeeding.
Enhances Immunity
Breast milk acts as a shield for infants. It offers them protective antibodies that protect them from infections.
Due to teething, infants are more inclined to put various objects in their mouths. Thus increasing their risk of getting infected.
How to Create Frozen Breast Milk for Teething
Making frozen breast milk teethers is an easy task that does not require much equipment or effort.
Here is how it can be done step by step:
Step 1: Collecting and Freezing Breast Milk
First, begin the process by expressing breast milk as usual.
You may use a breast pump or hand express, whichever is more comfortable for you.
Once the milk has been obtained, it is to be poured into clean sterilized containers or breastmilk storage bags.
Remember to label the bags with the date so that you finish up the oldest milk first.
For teething purposes, you do not have to have this in large volume—just a little is enough.
Step 2: Choosing Tools and Molds
Many different shapes and sizes can be used for storing frozen breast milk.
Silicone molds, ice trays, or even teething ring molds will also work appropriately.
It is advisable to ensure that the molds are food-grade and BPA-free, baby-sized, and easy to bite and hold.
Other parents use mesh feedings and pack the frozen milk in them with ice to avoid getting many lumps at once.
Step 3: Freezing The Milk
Fill the molds or containers you decide on with milk and place them directly into the freezer/refrigerator.
There is no need to fill the molds, as breast milk tends to expand when frozen.
Generally, 3-4 hours in the freezer will be enough to freeze the milk completely.
Step 4: Serving The Frozen Milk Safely
Once the breast milk has frozen, it must be removed from the molds and given to the baby in appropriate sizes.
It is advisable always to keep an eye on your baby and never leave them unattended to avoid choking.
Tips for Safely Using Frozen Breast Milk Teethers
Always Monitor Your Baby
Constantly monitor your child when using these frozen breast milk teethers. Since breast milk in a frozen state can be broken down into small pieces, there lies a risk of choking if the pieces don’t match the sizes. Make sure that the maintainable size of the uk doesn’t exceed the circumference of your baby’s two fingers in width.
Proper Storage and Hygiene
Breast milk is safe to store in the freezer for six months, though it is suggested that frozen milk be utilized within one or two months for teething purposes. these are addition tips on better storage you could use.
Always sterilize the molds and containers prior to their use to avoid contamination.
Sanitize Molds and Containers
Milk-freezing silicone molds or any other such rings should be thoroughly cleaned and disinfected before each use. T
his ensures harmful organisms do not reach the breast milk or your infant’s mouth.
Other Natural Teething Remedies to Try
Breastmilk is a great option; however, more is needed. It is possible to make use of other natural remedies to help soothe your baby’s pain:
Cold Washcloths
A clean, cool washcloth or facecloth soaked in water may also soothe your baby. Infants enjoy chewing on the cold, soft fabric, which is helpful in numbing their gums.
Teething Rings
Bite pieces like silicone or rubber can also be cooled to provide extra relief.
Choose BPA-free options, and do not freeze the rings, as they can become damagingly hard.
Chilled Fruits in Mesh Feeders
For older babies who have started solids, chilled fruits like bananas or strawberries in mesh feeders can be both nutritious and calming.
What’s The Best Age For Your Child To Use Frozen Breast Milk Teethers
The process of teething in infants starts at about six months of age, although it can occur earlier for some infants.
In advanced cases where the child is less than six months old, it is advisable to seek medical advice regarding the safety of frozen breast milk teethers and the relevant time to use them.
How People Deal With Taking the Teething Problem Using Frozen Breast Milk
Parents may have a number of issues with the use of frozen breast milk for teething. Here are answers to some common questions for clarification:
Is it safe?
Yes, frozen breast milk is appropriate for teething babies as long as you follow proper hygiene and storage guidelines.
How long can I use the frozen milk?
Frozen breast milk lasts for a maximum of six months, but for teething milk, milk that has been frozen for one or two months is better.
Could my baby have an allergic reaction?
Breast milk is usually safe, so ensure that your baby is monitored for any signs of reaction or even discomfort.
When to Avoid Frozen Breast Milk Teething
On the other hand, some babies might not have an easy time with their frozen breast milk teethers.
In the event you notice your infant is in any form of distress, excessive drooling, or outright avoidance of the product, seek alternative methods.
In the same way, if any symptoms of sickness appear in the baby, one should see a child’s doctor without delay.
Conclusion
Frozen breast milk teethers are a safer alternative to the many available drugs. If the teething process becomes uncomfortable, you can effectively and efficiently add this practice to the baby’s nutrition.
It is advisable to observe safety rules, such as monitoring your baby during the use of the frozen breast milk teethers.
Plus, a sense of relief as you know you’re providing your baby with a natural, safe remedy to ease their pain.