The Journal of Human Lactation Podcast
The Journal of Human Lactation Podcast
Podcast Description
Welcome to the JHL podcast where we delve into the groundbreaking world of lactation science. We'll explore the latest research articles, uncover innovative practices, and discuss the future of breastfeeding and human milk studies.
All articles featured will be open access for 6 weeks after the podcast publishing date.
Our hope is that our podcast fosters scientific curiosity, inspiration, and further discussion among clinicians and researchers as we move the field of lactation forward.
If you have any questions, we’d love to hear about it! Email us at [email protected].
Podcast Insights
Content Themes
The podcast focuses on various themes within lactation science, including research on breastfeeding, maternal emotional availability, and lactation support techniques. Episodes include discussions on topics like the importance of customized flange sizing for breast pumps, the influence of coparenting on breastfeeding dynamics, and the commercialization of human milk, providing listeners with evidence-based insights and real-world applications.
Welcome to the JHL podcast where we delve into the groundbreaking world of lactation science. We’ll explore the latest research articles, uncover innovative practices, and discuss the future of breastfeeding and human milk studies.
All articles featured will be open access for 6 weeks after the podcast publishing date.
Our hope is that our podcast fosters scientific curiosity, inspiration, and further discussion among clinicians and researchers as we move the field of lactation forward.
If you have any questions, we’d love to hear about it! Email us at [email protected].
In this episode of the Journal of Human Lactation podcast, hosts Ellen Chetwynd and Adina Kopinsky discuss the article “Possibility of Microwave Thawing of Human Milk: Effects on Milk Composition and Temperature Distribution.”
The article, published in JHL Volume 41, Issue 4, explores whether microwaving frozen human milk might safely thaw milk without compromising its composition or creating dangerous temperature “hot spots.”
Despite long-standing guidance advising against microwaving, this study reexamines the evidence using household microwaves—rather than laboratory equipment—to mirror real-world conditions.
Key takeaways include:
Research on microwaving human milk is decades old, highlighting the need for updated studies.
After microwaving and gentle inversion, hot spots were greatly reduced, suggesting that temperature variation may be less concerning than once believed.
The findings indicate that while microwaving is not yet recommended, more research could clarify its potential for safe, convenient thawing in the future.
This preliminary study invites discussion about balancing safety, convenience, and accuracy in human milk handling, especially as more families rely on expressed milk.
Links to the article:
Ito M, Tanaka M, Date M, Miura K, Mizuno K. Possibility of Microwave Thawing of Human Milk: Effects on Milk Composition and Temperature Distribution.Journal of Human Lactation. 2025;41(4).
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