Prenatal expressing and collecting of colostrum is when an expecting mother expressed and collects colostrum prior to the birth of her baby. This is often accomplished by hand expression. Expressed colostrum is collected and frozen and used in situations where a baby requires supplementation, for example if the mother had diabetes during pregnancy the baby could be born with low blood sugar and giving stored colostrum can help stabilize the baby’s blood sugars and potentially prevent an intensive care nursery admission. It can also be used if you are separated from your baby following birth for treatment or if the baby is unwell. It could also be used to supplement the baby’s feeds if your baby is unable to latch effectively at the breast which could in turn, assist in the establishment of successful breastfeeding.

Hand expressing prenatally under normal circumstances can provide an ideal, low-risk opportunity to develop self-confidence regarding breastfeeding skills in anticipation of expecting a newborn. Having colostrum collected and available if any complications or need arise provides a sense of calmness entering a rather unknown experience.

The benefits of giving your newborn baby colostrum is well documented and will provide your baby with its first wholesome and extremely beneficial feed. Colostrum contains vital nutrients, minerals and proteins and is the perfect composition for your baby's tummy. Colostrum provides healthy bacteria and high levels of antibodies to help your baby build a strong immune system. Colostrum also keeps your baby hydrated, is important for its digestive tract, gut health and encourages the early passage of meconium which may assists in preventing jaundice.

This is the biggest concern typically, but for most low-risk expecting mothers it is safe to express colostrum prior to the birth of your baby. It is recommended that you wait until you have reached 36/37 weeks of gestation before beginning prenatal colostrum expression and collection. However, we always recommend you discuss this with your health care provider/s first.

Moms typically start by expressing for 5 minutes on both sides, 2 times a day. If consistent contractions are noticed, it is advised to stop expressing.

There is no right or wrong amount. The amount of colostrum a mom can express varies. Collecting colostrum during late pregnancy does not deplete what you have after delivery nor does the amount determine how much milk you will have postpartum. It is expected that you see no output on the first time or two attempting to express, consistency is important and volume should increase. Drops are expected.

Prenatal expression of colostrum is NOT usually recommended before 36 weeks gestation and NOT recommended if you have a:

• History or are currently having problems with threatened or actual premature labour
• Cervical incompetence
• Suture in your cervix to help prevent preterm labor

YES! We got you mama! Email us at info@milkylove.co and we will ensure you have the tools you need to continue collecting your liquid gold for your baby.

The benefits of giving your newborn baby colostrum is well documented and will provide them with their first nourishing feeds. It is easily digested and encourages the early passage of meconium which assists in preventing jaundice. It will help boost your baby’s immunity and line their immature gastrointestinal tract. Beginning with expressed colostrum, even if you do not intend to breastfeed, will provide your baby with the ideal first feeds and complete nutrition and hydration for your baby. This can be a great choice to jumpstart your baby's gut microbiome and immunity the natural way despite feeding plan.

We encourage you to check out our page "Colostrum" as you will find breastmilk storage guidelines listed there and the same guidelines apply to colostrum.