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Ask A Nurse
Questions and Answers

Q. Can you warm up breast milk and if so, how? Can't you pump when you return to work? Does pumped breast milk have the same nutrients as straight from the breast?

A. Yes, you can warm breast milk, but don't use the microwave to do it. Instead, try putting the container in a bowl of hot water.

Pumping is the way to go for back to work moms. I loved the Medela double pump kit, because we only get 15 minute breaks and I could both breasts in that time. Try visiting the La Leche League web site for great info regarding pumping and other concerns at www.laleche.org .

Debi Fatherree, RN, has been in nursing for 10 years. All of it has been with a childbirth focus. She has worked postpartum, nursery, NICU and have cross trained some in Labor and Delivery. She started a infant home visit and prenatal educational program in her rural home town and was nominated for Maternal Child nurse of the Year in 1995. She and her husband were transferred with his company 1 1/2 years ago and she started teaching chidlbirth classes and doing breastfeeding classes and consults. She also works as a doula and has her own business, StorkHelp. Debi is mom to three wonderful children - Katie, age 8, Hannah, age 6 and Bobby, age3 (my spit fire.) She and her husband have been married thirteen years, a great accomplishment these days. She currently teaches in the hospital setting and privately through StorkHelp.

Debi will answer your questions on fertility, pregnancy, birth, breastfeeding and babies. Her advice does not take the place of your practitioner. Personal answers will not always be possible.