IBCLC Milk Expression and Storage

Question 1

What is the maximum recommended storage time for freshly expressed breast milk at room temperature (up to 77°F/25°C)?

Accepted Answer

4 hours

Answer

According to CDC and ABM guidelines, freshly expressed breast milk may be kept at room temperature up to 77°F (25°C) for a maximum of 4 hours.

Question 2

Which hand expression technique uses a C-hold with rhythmic compress-and-release cycles to best mimic infant suckling?

Accepted Answer

Marmet technique

Answer

The Marmet technique positions the fingers in a C-hold behind the areola and uses rhythmic compress-release cycles that most closely replicate infant suckling mechanics.

Question 3

For a stand-alone deep freezer maintained at 0°F (-18°C), how long can expressed breast milk be stored while remaining safe?

Accepted Answer

12 months

Answer

Breast milk stored in a deep freezer at 0°F (-18°C) remains safe for up to 12 months, though use within 6 months is recommended for optimal quality.

Question 4

What is the safest method for thawing previously frozen breast milk?

Accepted Answer

Overnight thawing in the refrigerator

Answer

Thawing overnight in the refrigerator maintains consistently cool temperatures and best preserves the milk's bioactive components compared to other methods.

Question 5

A mother wants to combine freshly pumped warm milk with cold refrigerated milk. What is the correct guidance?

Accepted Answer

Cool the fresh milk in the refrigerator first before combining with cold milk

Answer

Fresh warm milk must be chilled in the refrigerator before being combined with previously refrigerated milk to prevent partial warming of the stored milk.

IBCLC - Certification Exam Practice Test

IBCLC - Certification Exam Practice Test

IBCLC Milk Expression and Storage