Nicu Baby Breastmilk journey began

When your baby comes early, your milk becomes medicine. 💛My boy arrived at 36+5, and our journey began in the NICU. I couldn’t hold him right away but I could hand express

Every drop I made was one step closer to him.

If your baby came early, start your milk journey as soon as you can.

Even a few drops of colostrum mean everything. Start pumping, stay consistent, and trust your body it remembers what to do.

You’ve got this, mama. Your milk matters. Your effort matters. 🤍

🫖 I created my Lactation Tea Blend to help @breasfriend_tea mamas boost supply naturally during those early, emotional days because I’ve been there too.

✨ Tag a NICU or pumping mama who needs to hear this today.

#NICUmama #PreemieJourney #ExclusivePumpingMom #PumpingJourney #BreastmilkIsMedicine

2025/11/7 Edited to

... Read moreWhen a baby arrives early and needs NICU care, the journey of providing breastmilk often becomes a lifeline. Even if immediate skin-to-skin contact isn’t possible, hand expressing or pumping starts signaling your body to produce the milk your preemie needs. Early and consistent pumping—sometimes around the clock—can be challenging but is essential, as every drop of colostrum or milk contributes crucial nutrients and antibodies that support the baby's fragile health. Many NICU moms find that establishing a routine, even when supply seems low at first, gradually brings about stronger milk production. Trusting your body and recognizing that it remembers how to make milk can be empowering. Additionally, natural aids like specially formulated lactation teas may offer gentle support by promoting supply with herbal ingredients designed to soothe the emotional and physical challenges of early motherhood. It’s important to reach out to support groups such as #NICUmama or #ExclusivePumpingMom for encouragement and shared experiences. Tagging fellow NICU or pumping moms can foster community and remind every mother that her milk truly matters and is a powerful medicine for her baby’s growth and healing. Remember, even a few drops are meaningful—they symbolize love, connection, and hope during this critical time. If you’re navigating this path, start where you are, stay consistent, and lean into the support available. Your perseverance through every pump session and every ounce collected plays a vital role in your preemie’s journey toward health and stronger days ahead.

Related posts

Breastfeeding isn’t always a ‘natural’ breeze—sometimes it’s a battle. 🤍 Part 2 of why I turn these liquid gold memories into forever keepsakes. To the NICU moms and exclusive pumpers: I see you. You aren’t alone in the struggle. ✨ #breastmilkjewelry #nicumom #exclusivepumping #breastfeed
MCKeepsakes

MCKeepsakes

3 likes

★ ☆ BREASTMILK SOAP RECIPE ☆ ★ 100% natural ☆ ★
AHHH!!! i’m so excited to use this soap not only for my son but for me too! this has been on my to-do list for a while now! incase you didn’t know, breastmilk is ANTIBACTERIAL, ANTI-INFLAMMATORY & MOISTURIZING! it helps diaper rash, baby acne, cracked nipples, dry skin, cradle cap and ecz
chey

chey

2468 likes

DON’T toss expired breastmilk!🤱🏻🍼
Before you throw out expired breastmilk… read this! 🍼 Did you know it can still be used for so many helpful things? From soothing skin irritations to making natural baby lotion, expired breastmilk is still packed with goodness. I’ve used it for things like baby acne, diaper rash, eczema &a
Dania Toddler Mom & UGC

Dania Toddler Mom & UGC

360 likes

A counter displays various containers of breast milk, including two large glass carafes, a measured bottle, and a small jar, illustrating increased supply. The text 'INCREASE BREASTMILK SUPPLY' is overlaid.
INCREASE BREASTMILK SUPPLY
Hope this helps yall 🤍 also try not to use a wearable pump as a primary. #breastmilksupply #pumpingmilk #pumpingfriendly #pumpingmom #pumping
mama ray ᥫ᭡

mama ray ᥫ᭡

2617 likes

I miss these early days 🐮 🍼
What was your experience like? #milk #breastfeeding #pumping #breastmilk #mom #postpartum
H A L L I E

H A L L I E

58 likes

INCREASE BREASTMILKSUPPLY
Hope this helps!💗🫶🏻 . #breastmilksupply #pumpingmilk #oumpinafriendlv #pumpinamom #pumping
Laisha🖤

Laisha🖤

308 likes

Inverted nipples + tongue tie journey 🤍(real tips from a new mom)
🤍 First, you’re not alone Breastfeeding can be harder than expected—especially when dealing with: * inverted nipples * latch pain * tongue tie * supply worries It’s okay if it doesn’t feel “natural” right away. 🍼 1. Get lactation support early An IBCLC (lactation consultant) can h
Rodricka

Rodricka

28 likes

What I drink to help with breastmilk supply!
As breastfeeding moms, we have to stay hydrated to keep ourselves healthy but also be able to keep up with the demand of our babies! Everything is super affordable! I know how expensive food can get because us moms, we’re more hungry/thirsty than ever! I do recommend if you are drinking hot
noellgracee

noellgracee

1818 likes

Mom Tips: Freezer Storage for Breastmilk 🥛
Here’s how I prepare breastmilk for the deep freezer. *I have an oversupply and in the beginning, I had a lot of milk to put in the deep freezer. I am now 6 months postpartum in my second breastfeeding journey. What I use: Lansinoh storage bags (I also like medela or target’s brand) Hefty fre
Sarah Mae

Sarah Mae

134 likes

A sleeping baby in a blue swaddle and hat in a wooden bed, with text overlay "The Different Colors Of Breastmilk And What It Means," introducing a guide to breastmilk colors.
A sleeping baby in a blue swaddle and hat, overlaid with text explaining that colostrum is yellow or golden, rich in antibodies and nutrients for newborns.
A sleeping baby in a blue swaddle and hat, overlaid with text describing mature milk as white or bluish, transitioning from colostrum and providing vital nutrients.
Breastmilk Color Cheat Sheet 🤍
Breastmilk can come in different colors, from white to yellow and even green! Each color is completely normal and shows just how amazing and unique your body’s milk is for your baby. #momvibes #lemon8challenge #breastfeedingmoms #momlife #momhacks
QuelleChaos🧘🏽‍♀️🔮☮️

QuelleChaos🧘🏽‍♀️🔮☮️

341 likes

A close-up image of a baby breastfeeding, with the title "8 USES for expired BREASTMILK" overlaid. The Lemon8 logo and user handle are visible in the bottom left corner.
8 surprising uses for Expired Breastmilk🍼
Did you know expired breastmilk can still be useful? Instead of tossing it, try these 8 surprising ways to use it! From soothing cracked nipples and diaper rash to treating eczema and baby acne, breastmilk is packed with healing properties. You can even make a lotion, give your baby a milk b
Dania Toddler Mom & UGC

Dania Toddler Mom & UGC

465 likes

A baby wearing a pink long-sleeved onesie lies on a white fluffy blanket, with the text "MASTITIS survival kit" overlaid, serving as the article's title image.
A hand holds a blue bottle of Sunflower Lecithin dietary supplement, labeled "DUCT, DUCT, LOOSE!" and described as helping to loosen clogged ducts and support milk flow, suggested by a lactation specialist.
A hand holds a purple box of Lansinoh Hot & Cold Breast Therapy Packs, which provide pain relief. They are used cold for engorgement and hot for plugged ducts, mastitis, and to encourage milk flow.
MASTITIS SURVIVAL KIT - keep on deck!
If you are having a baby and breastfeeding or pumping-keep these things on deck!! You want to start these things immediately when you feel a duct starting to clog! I got mastitis right after my daughter came hope from the NICU and let me tell y’all it was HORRIBLE. I really am not a baby about b
AVA WILSON

AVA WILSON

260 likes

🍫 Breastmilk Booster Brownies That Actually Work
Soft, rich, and made with nourishing ingredients to support breastfeeding mamas. Because you deserve to feel cozy, cared for, and chocolate-filled. Save this recipe, share with your mom friends, and enjoy every gooey bite ✨👶 Ingredients 1/2 cup sugar • 1/2 cup ground oats (milk-boostin
VivieSweet

VivieSweet

67 likes

✨ Breastmilk & Oat Soap for Babies & Kids✨
📌 Why I love it: This soap is so gentle, soothing, and perfect for my baby’s sensitive skin. Oats calm irritation, and breastmilk is full of natural goodness. Plus—it’s so easy to make and I have so much frozen breastmilk!!! 🍼 What You Need: • 2 cups breastmilk (fresh or thawed) • 2 lbs mel
Santana ♥️

Santana ♥️

905 likes

Breastmilk Storage 101🍼
When it comes to pumping and storing breastmilk, there is A LOT to learn. I remember the feeling of overwhelm and not think I would ever be able to remember and keep all of these rules straight. If that's how you feel, you are not alone and I promise you will quickly get the hang of it!
Anna Cooper | First Time Mom

Anna Cooper | First Time Mom

274 likes

Breastmilk Jewelry Secrets!
During my 5 years as a breastmilk jewelry artist, I’ve learned some interesting things. Should I do a part 2? What would you like to know about breastmilk jewelry? #breastfeedingjourney #postpartumjourney #breastfeeding #breastmilkjewelry #liquidgold
MCKeepsakes

MCKeepsakes

56 likes

Breastmilk pitcher fill 🤍
A lot of people ask me why I transfer the milk and it’s because it makes it easier to bag my milk. Combining everything in one decreased the time I would spend leveling each bottle to 4. Instead I can just pour from the pitcher into a bottle .. measure 4 oz and bag. Not only that but combining all
mama ray ᥫ᭡

mama ray ᥫ᭡

6181 likes

Milk Supply Journey🐄🍼🤍
From colostrum to real milk! Breastfeeding definitely has its ups and down, but it has been the most rewarding experience i've ever had. Watching my milk mature has been quite the journey. Its crazy to see how quickly you go from counting milliliters to ounces. Beyond grateful to be able to mak
ttropicana

ttropicana

6 likes

Two small bottles filled with yellowish breastmilk or colostrum, collected on day 2 postpartum, are shown. They are connected to parts of a breast pump or collection system, with bottle labels visible.
BreastMilk/ Colostrum Breastfeeding journey
How quickly did your milk come in? Did you nurse & pump? #breastfeedingmomma #breastpumping #postpartum #pumpingjourney #lemon8moms
My_ty_best

My_ty_best

7 likes

PUMPING TIPS & TRICKS 🐮 🍼
As a first time mom I was so unprepared for the world of not only breastfeeding but pumping as well. due to my son being in the NICU, I had to navigate using a pump alongside nursing his twin sister and it’s taken me basically 6 months to figure out how to really maximize pumping sessions & wha
DblTrblMom

DblTrblMom

58 likes

Breastmilk Ointment
My little one has really bad eczema, i’ve tried different things his doctors recommended nothing really helped. This is also something that his pediatrician recommended i thought i try it out and see how it works. It’s breastmilk mixed with Aquaphor. I just added a little bit of each until i got th
Jacky 🌺

Jacky 🌺

252 likes

FREEZE DRYING MY BREASTMILK 🐮🍼✨
Part one of my journey with freeze drying my Breastmilk! I went through Milk by Mom & it was the best decision! ⭐️ Communication: 10/10 ⭐️ Pricing: 9/10 (this is an investment) ⭐️ Packing/shipping: 10/10 #pumpingmom #milkbymom #breastfeedingjourney #freezedriedbreastmilk #
gracie

gracie

23 likes

A hand holds a clear breastmilk storage bag filled with breastmilk. Text overlay reads 'BREASTMILK HACK Heal Your Baby NATURALLY', indicating the topic of using breastmilk for healing.
A close-up shows a baby's eye with some discharge, illustrating pink eye. Text suggests adding breastmilk drops to the eye to alleviate symptoms.
A close-up of a baby's ear, with text indicating that breastmilk can be used for ear infections by adding drops inside the infected ear.
✨🍋HEAL YOUR BABY WITH BREASTMILK 🍼👶🏽
You heard it here folk… that’s right! You can HEAL your baby with YOUR BREASTMILK! 🍼👶🏽✨✨ Breastmilk has been used for centuries in the holistic healing of different ailments and infections. ✨Learn more on how you can use your breastmilk to help your baby with 3 things he or she may be experi
ShelemTudahGyil

ShelemTudahGyil

75 likes

Breastmilk storage tips 🍼
1. Pitcher method: pumping for 4 days and dumping into the same pitcher for bagging. I separate day and night because night time milk has natural melatonin to help baby sleep! 2. Keep dates on your pitchers so you don’t lose track of when you’re supposed to bag up. 3. Freeze flat! I made th
Ky Guzman | SAHM

Ky Guzman | SAHM

90 likes

Bringing Our Miracle Home After 135 Days in the NICU
Our journey began when my parents learned early in my mommy's pregnancy that I would have medical problems. They didn't know just how serious and challenging my path would be. My daughter went through so much, spending 135 days in a Texas Children's NICU from birth. She was born on S
QueenMoe

QueenMoe

1 like

How Long Does Pumped Breastmilk REALLY Last? 🫶✨
Here's the Ultimate Guide! Mamas, if you're like me, you've probably wondered how long your precious pumped milk lasts before it goes bad, right? 🍼 Here’s the breakdown from the ✨US CDC breastmilk storage guidelines ✨so you can feel confident about your milk storage game. 💖Freshly P
Chela_morgan99

Chela_morgan99

168 likes

An infographic titled 'Baby Food Stages: 0-12 Months' details feeding recommendations by age. It covers stages from 0-4 months (breastmilk/formula only) to 10-12 months (mini meals), including first tastes, textures, and self-feeding. It also lists foods to avoid like honey, whole nuts, popcorn, and 'Potrcen'.
Baby Food Stages 0–12 Months: Your Easy Feeding 🍓
Caption/Description: Starting solids and not sure where to begin? Saving this guide will make mealtime so much easier, mama 🤍 From first tastes to mini meals, here’s a simple breakdown of what baby may be ready for by age + helpful tips to make feeding feel less overwhelming. ✨ Helpful Mom Tips
B E L E N

B E L E N

172 likes

A mother in sunglasses breastfeeds her baby outdoors, with text stating "Your BREASTMILK GROWS with your baby" and "Still breastfeeding at 21 months old." The baby's face is partially obscured.
An image of a baby sleeping in a car seat, overlaid with text explaining Colostrum (first days) as antibody-rich 'liquid gold' and Transitional Milk (days 3-7) as increasing in volume and calories for rapid growth.
A close-up image of a baby's head, with text describing Mature Milk (after 2 weeks) as balanced in nutrients, distinguishing between Foremilk for thirst and Hindmilk for hunger and growth.
Fascinating facts about BREASTMILK 🤱🏻
When women get pregnant, our bodies endure extreme physiological & psychological changes & it’s all so fascinating. Breastmilk is specially fascinating because it continually adapts to meet your baby’s changing needs, even into toddlerhood. Breastmilk is DYNAMIC, not static. Meaning
Dania Toddler Mom & UGC

Dania Toddler Mom & UGC

197 likes

A couple things that helped me breastmilk supply!
I swear by all of these , I wake up everymorning now very full and I’m not a consistent pumper. My daughter is fully bottle fed , I was making just enough , I’m still not an oversupplied but I make a nice amount that I’m not pumping all day. Maybe 3 or 4 pumps daily! #pumpingfriendly #pumpingisbr
Thalia | SAHM

Thalia | SAHM

182 likes

Do you know these facts about BREASTMILK? 🥛🤱🏻
Breastfeeding offers amazing benefits for both baby and mother!🤱🏻 From antibacterial properties in breast milk to its role as a natural pain reliever, it provides everything baby needs for growth and development. It also boosts the mother’s health and helps shorten the duration of common ill
Dania Toddler Mom & UGC

Dania Toddler Mom & UGC

44 likes

Tips to help increase your breastmilk production
✨ Because feeding your baby starts with fueling YOU. ✨ 🍼 1. Stay Hydrated Aim for at least 8–10 glasses of water a day. Coconut water & loaded waters = a lactating mama’s bestie. 💦 🥑 2. Eat Galactagogue-Rich Foods Oats, flaxseed, brewers yeast, almonds, and leafy greens help nourish you
chey 🦋

chey 🦋

233 likes

How to Know If Baby Is Getting Enough Breastmilk✨
Worried if your baby is eating enough? You’re not alone, mama! Here are 6 signs your breastfed baby is getting what they need. 💪💧 👶 1. Enough Wet Diapers ➡️ At least 6+ wet diapers a day by day 5. 🟡 Light yellow, no strong smell. 🍼 2. Poop Schedule ➡️ 3+ poops a day early on (yellow, seedy
Tabitha Moore

Tabitha Moore

24 likes

A hand holds a small yellow baby bottle filled with yellowish breastmilk. Overlay text reads "FACTS ABOUT BREASTFEEDING SWIPE" with a "SWIPE" arrow, indicating more information.
FACTS about breastmilk and breastfeeding 🤱🏼
let me know if y’all want me to do more of these. (just wanted to note that i am not a professional, but i do love talking about the facts and benefits of breastmilk☺️) #breastfeedingmom #breastfeedingtips #breastfeedingjourney #facts
skylar 🌹

skylar 🌹

120 likes

A measuring pitcher filled with breastmilk, illustrating the topic of how to increase milk supply.
A box of oatmeal raisin granola bars, recommended as an oat snack to help increase milk supply.
A bottle of peach mango flavored hydration drink, highlighted as important for hydration to support milk supply.
Breastmilk supply 🍼🐮
Hello my breastfeeding mamas!!! I Exclusively Pump and here are a few things I did and tried to make my supply increase. Oat Bars: These are the bars I specifically use other than the nature valleys but any oats are good to help increase your supply!! EAT YA OATS💯 HYDRATION : DRINK YOUR WATER 💦
Zaniya Latise

Zaniya Latise

174 likes

Eczema journey 😪
Nurturing my baby's skin: The journey to soap-making triumph! As my one-year-old daughter struggles with eczema, I have considered creating my own soap, with the goal of potentially taming the symptoms of her condition. 🤍 this isn’t like my usual posts but I wanted to share this journey o
TAL🫧🎀🎂

TAL🫧🎀🎂

23 likes

How To Store Breastmilk
Storing breastmilk can seem overwhelming with how much info is out there! Here’s a simple breakdown of the basics! I use the picture method. It’s basically means I collect all of my breastmilk from a 24 hour period and then we bag and freeze it. I use a bottle to measure out and make sure I get
Rachael | Boy Mama🩵

Rachael | Boy Mama🩵

47 likes

Crystals of Love- Dont Blink Keepsakes
Another precious memory saved for a lifetime🤍🥺 "This ring is special to me for many reasons: this is my last baby, this is my longest breastfeeding journey, and this baby is a miracle! My water broke when I was 20 weeks and 2 days pregnant. (Periviable PPROM) Every single day for the next
Shyanne Cruz

Shyanne Cruz

2 likes

Breastmilk Journey
#milkbagging #breastmilk #milkplug #viralvideo
VanessaMarie🦋

VanessaMarie🦋

2 likes

I am finally weaning and parting with the stash I have kept in my deep freezer for my daughter. I have donated thousands of oz to the local NICU but this was extra special for me. I knew at the end of my pumping journey. I wanted to donate to a local mom who had just had a baby and was navigati
Ashley Brown | The Chaotic Mom

Ashley Brown | The Chaotic Mom

46 likes

Breastmilk education
Breastmilk is like a WHOLE medical kit🩹 Hungry? Breastmilk. Rash? Breastmilk. Bug bite? Breastmilk. Sunburn? Breastmilk. Sore throat? Breastmilk. Cracked nipples? BREASTMILK. ✨🥛 #momcreator #breastfeedingmoms #breastfeedingbenefits
Deianira Cray

Deianira Cray

15 likes

World Breastfeeding Week🤱🏻
Due to my son’s prematurity, I was not able to breastfeed until 4 months after he was born. He developed NEC and underwent 3 surgeries. I pumped 2-3 hours everyday because I knew ONE day, I would be able to breastfeed my baby. That’s all I wished for…and that’s what I got! Unfortunately, my milk wa
Maria Lopez | NICU + SAHM 🤍

Maria Lopez | NICU + SAHM 🤍

5 likes

Benefits of Breastmilk Baths
I love milk baths for my babies who both have a history of eczema. Not only does it help their skin, but it also gives me something to do with breast milk that my baby doesn't drink and I can't store for future use. Here are some of the benefits of breastmilk baths: Moisturizing: Breast
Kimmie Jo🍋

Kimmie Jo🍋

168 likes

How to increase breastmilk fat
#breastmilkstorage #breastfeeding #breastmilksupply
mama ray ᥫ᭡

mama ray ᥫ᭡

188 likes

The image shows multiple clear plastic breastmilk storage bags filled with yellowish-white breastmilk, laid out on a patterned surface. Each bag features measurement markings in milliliters and ounces, along with spaces for recording date, time, name, and volume. Some bags have handwritten entries for the date and volume.
Breastmilk!✨🫶
Bagged breastmilk from the last 4 days at 10 months postpartum. 💖🍼🐄 I went from purchasing donated breastmilk at the hospital to building an over supply. I currently exclusively breastfeed my baby and supply to another baby. Will post all the things my mom did for me to attain an over supply
user12731883882591

user12731883882591

11 likes

Breastfeeding Journey ✨
Any breastfeeding mommies out there? Will be sharing my breastmilk journey and looking for any tips or tricks! Follow me ✨💕🙌🏾 #breastfeedingmom #breastfeedingjourney #tipsandtricks #motherhood #babies #liquidgold #pumpingjourney #breastpumping #mothersmilk
Tee_

Tee_

7 likes

See more