In this article:
What is colostrum, and why is it important?
Colostrum, often referred to as your baby's first vaccine, is the initial type of milk your body produces during pregnancy and after childbirth. It contains antibodies that play a crucial role in preventing illness, making it a vital component for your baby's health.White blood cells make the immune system stronger. Proteins, vitamins, and minerals are essential for growth in the early stages. Lactoferrin and other growth factors help the gut grow.
A few drops of colostrum can make a huge difference, especially for preterm or low birth weight babies. The colostrum benefits for the baby include protection from infections, digestive support, and faster recovery. That’s why many doctors now recommend colostrum harvesting in the final weeks of pregnancy.
When can you start expressing colostrum before your baby is born?
Most mothers can begin hand expressing colostrum at around 36 or 37 weeks of pregnancy, but only after consulting their doctor. For women with a healthy pregnancy, it’s safe to start late in the third trimester. However, if you’re at risk of preterm labour or complications, you should always seek medical advice first. Expressing colostrum before birth too early (before 36 weeks) may trigger mild contractions, so always wait for your doctor’s go-ahead.Who Should Think About Collecting Colostrum?
Antenatal colostrum collection in India is especially beneficial for:- Mothers with gestational diabetes, as it helps stabilise newborn blood sugar levels.
- Women preparing for a C-section may be unable to breastfeed immediately.
- Those expecting premature babies who might need early feeds or NICU care.
- Mothers who want to ensure their newborn receives colostrum even if immediate breastfeeding is delayed.
How to Get Colostrum Out Before Birth
The process is easy, gentle, and doesn't need any tools. Here is how to do it, providing a sense of comfort and relaxation:1. Step: Get Ready – Sit back and relax after washing your hands. You can use a warm cloth on your breasts for a few minutes to get the flow going.
2. Step: Stimulate the Breasts—For 2 to 3 minutes, gently massage your breasts in circles, starting at the outside and working your way towards the nipple.
3. Step: Hand Expression
- Put your thumb and index finger about 2–3 cm away from the base of the nipple.
- Gently push back towards your chest, then squeeze and let go.
- Get the thick, yellow drops of colostrum that come out.
4. Step: Switch sides. To help evenly stimulate production, switch between both breasts.
5. Step: Store Safely—Put the date and time of expiration on the container.
How to Keep Colostrum Before Giving Birth?
If you store colostrum correctly, it will stay safe and valuable for your baby, giving you peace of mind and a sense of preparedness.- Refrigerator: Keep at 2–4°C for up to 48 hours.
- Store in the freezer at –18°C or lower for up to three months.
- Deep freezer: Safe for up to six months.
- Never microwave or boil food to thaw it. Always use warm water.
How to Give Expressed Colostrum After Birth
If you’re recovering from a C-section or your baby is in the NICU, colostrum before delivery can be life-saving. Doctors or nurses can feed the expressed milk using a sterile spoon, dropper, or syringe until you’re ready to breastfeed directly.Safety Tips and Precautions
- Before you start expressing colostrum, you should always talk to your gynaecologist.
- Don't express it before 36 weeks, unless your doctor tells you to.
- If you feel cramps or contractions, stop right away.
- Only use sterile containers to collect and store things.
- Write a label and put it in the freezer within 30 minutes of expressing.
- Before every try, wash your hands. Cleanliness is essential.
The Emotional Benefits of Collecting Colostrum
- Besides being beneficial for your health, expressing colostrum helps you feel closer to your baby before they are born.
- Get ready to breastfeed after giving birth.
- Lower your worries about not having enough milk or having trouble feeding.
- Get to know your body's rhythm and get ready emotionally for being a mum.
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FAQs on Expressing & Storing Colostrum Before Birth: A Practical Guide for Indian Moms
- Is it okay to express colostrum before the baby is born?
Yes, it's safe to express colostrum from 36 to 37 weeks as long as your doctor says it's okay and you do it gently by hand. - How much colostrum should I expect to get every day?
It's normal to start with just a few drops to a teaspoon a day and work your way up.