Partners in Creating Life

What Surrogate Mothers Should Know About Breast Milk After Birth

Jan 31, 2025 | General Topics

For surrogate mothers, the journey doesn’t always end with the birth of the child. One question often asked is- after delivery what do you do with the breast milk your body produces? Whether you choose to pump and provide milk to the intended parents for the baby, donate it to a milk bank, or stop lactation altogether, understanding your options is essential.

Why Breast Milk Matters

Breast milk is often referred to as “liquid gold” because of its incredible nutritional and immunological benefits. It provides newborns with antibodies, promotes healthy growth, and can reduce the risk of certain illnesses. Many intended parents value the opportunity to provide breast milk for their baby, even if it’s through pumping and bottle feeding.

Providing Milk for the Baby You Carried

If the intended parents have expressed interest in using your breast milk, you may consider pumping and freezing milk for them. This requires establishing a pumping schedule to maintain milk production and learning proper storage techniques. Pumped milk can be stored in the freezer for up to six months, ensuring the baby has access to its benefits for an extended period.

Donating Breast Milk

If providing milk to the intended parents isn’t part of the plan, donating breast milk is a generous and impactful alternative. Human milk banks screen and pasteurize donations to ensure safety and often provide milk to premature or medically fragile infants. To donate:

  1. Contact a Certified Milk Bank: Find a reputable milk bank through the Human Milk Banking Association of North America (HMBANA).
  2. Complete the Screening Process: This involves a health questionnaire, blood tests, and approval from your doctor.
  3. Follow Proper Pumping and Storage Guidelines: Use clean equipment, store milk in sterilized containers, and label bags with the date and time.

Stopping Lactation

If you choose not to pump, your body will eventually stop producing milk. To ease the process, wear a supportive bra, avoid stimulating the breasts, and use cold compresses to reduce discomfort. Over-the-counter pain relief can also help with swelling and tenderness.

If you have any questions about your surrogacy journey, please don’t hesitate to contact us here at Shared Conception. We are here to answer any of your questions or concerns. Call us today at: 713-622-1144.