More women are asking for information on antenatal expressing/harvesting of colostrum. It can provide a safety net! It is great to have some colostrum there and ready in the event your baby needs it. Some women will be able to get lots while others it can be a matter of drops. This is normal.
So what is colostrum!
Colostrum is produced as early as 16 weeks of pregnancy. It is low in volume but high in energy.
It is thick, sometimes yellow/clear and is packed full of antibodies!
If you wish, you can collect colostrum and store it to have for your baby after birth.
Always discuss with your care provider to ensure it is safe for you to do so.
Benefits
It gets you used to handling your breast and using the technique of hand expressing.
Can be particularly helpful if you are expecting multiples, have diabetes or have concerns about breastfeeding.
Or if you anticipate your baby will have issues feeding or there is the possibility they may be separated from you.
It can reduce the chances of your baby needing formula supplements.
How?
Generally it is considered safe to start expressing from 37 weeks onwards. Stop if you start to feel contractions.
Only use your hand, not a pump.
If it is safe to do so you can express your milk as often as you wish. Perhaps 3 – 4 times a day for 5 mins. Spend time massaging the breast first and alternate back and forth between breasts.
Remember that any amount of colostrum you collect is great. The volume you can express varies widely.
Be patient as you learn. This is a new skill!
Your care provider may be able to supply you with a pack for expressing.
These will usually include syringes and labels.
You can collect your colostrum in a sterile syringe. Always label it clearly and pop it in the freezer.
If you are bringing some to the hospital. Only take small amounts, perhaps 1-2mls. once it is out of the freezer you only have 24 hours to use it.
The hospital will have a fridge for expressed milk. Make sure whoever you give your colostrum to knows what it is and where to store it. You do not want your hard earned colostrum to go to waste!!
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