Can I store colostrum if my baby is in the NICU?

Yes. You can hand-express and refrigerate it safely for your baby to consume later under hospital guidance.

How long does colostrum last before mature milk comes in?

Colostrum is produced for about 2–5 days before it transitions into mature breast milk.

Common Myths vs Facts About Colostrum in India

Colostrum, or "liquid gold," is the first type of milk that a mother makes after giving birth. Colostrum has many unique benefits that no other milk can match. It is thick, yellowish, and full of antibodies that keep your baby safe.

But there are still a lot of breastfeeding myths about colostrum in India that are common in Indian homes. Some women are told to throw it away or wait to feed because they think it's "stale" or "unfit." It's time to set the record straight about colostrum so that every mother knows how important it is for her baby's health.

Myth 1: "Colostrum Is Dirty or Old Milk"

Fact: Colostrum is pure, nutrient-rich, and the healthiest form of first milk for your baby.

Elders in some Indian communities tell new mothers to throw away the thick, yellow milk because they believe it to be "impure." It is a totally untrue belief. Because colostrum is concentrated and rich in antibodies like IgA, IgG, and IgM that shield your baby from dangerous bacteria and viruses, your breasts produce it in small amounts. It is not old or dirty — it’s nature’s way of giving your baby the most potent immunity possible right from birth.

Myth 2: It’s Too Thick for the Baby to Digest

Fact: Colostrum is perfectly designed for your baby’s tiny stomach.

At birth, your baby's stomach is only as big as a cherry. Colostrum is thick because it is infused with the benefits of colostrum, like proteins that boost immunity and natural laxatives. A few teaspoons are all it takes to fill your baby's stomach and help them pass meconium, which is their first stool. This prevents jaundice and aids digestion.

Myth 3: You Should Wait a Few Days Before Breastfeeding

Fact: The earlier you breastfeed, the better for both you and your baby.

Delaying breastfeeding means your baby misses the importance of colostrum. According to the WHO, you should breastfeed within the first hour of birth to give your newborn immediate protection. Early feeding ensures your baby gets all the benefits of colostrum when it matters most.

Myth 4: Formula Is Better Than Colostrum

Fact: No formula can duplicate the natural immunity of colostrum.

Baby formula milk is healthy, but it doesn't have the live cells, antibodies, and immune-boosting ingredients that colostrum does. This fluid is like your baby's first vaccination because it boosts their immune system. It also stops allergies, helps the brain grow, and gives the body essential growth factors and enzymes that no artificial formula can match.

Myth 5: Only Premature or Weak Babies Should Use Colostrum

Fact: Colostrum is beneficial to all babies, whether they are born prematurely or at full term.

Although it is equally essential for fully developed babies, colostrum benefits premature babies by promoting lung and gut development. Colostrum is vital for the development of a healthy digestive system and for preventing infections in healthy newborns. It acts like a natural “shield”, ensuring your baby starts life strong and protected.

Myth 6: You Don’t Produce Enough Colostrum

Fact: Your body produces exactly the right amount your baby needs.

It's common for new Indian mothers to worry about not producing enough milk in the first few days. However, it's important to remember that your body is designed to deliver precisely the right amount of colostrum your baby needs. Even though colostrum is thick and concentrated, your breasts naturally make small amounts. Your baby’s stomach is small, so even a few teaspoons of colostrum every few hours are perfectly adequate. Regular feeding encourages your body to produce more milk, which naturally turns into mature milk after two to five days.

Myth 7: There Are Not Enough Nutrients in Colostrum

Fact: Your newborn needs all of the essential nutrients and antibodies found in colostrum.

It contains a lot of immunoglobulin, which guards against infections.
Lactoferrin: Promotes intestinal health and inhibits the growth of dangerous bacteria.
Vitamins A and E help boost immunity and support vision.
Vitamins and Enzymes help with tissue growth and repair.

This makes colostrum the most potent first milk for the baby, packed with nutrients that no supplement can match.

Why Colostrum Matters So Much?

Builds lifelong immunity from the very first feed.
Reduces the risk of diarrhoea, pneumonia, and respiratory infections.
Supports healthy gut development and nutrient absorption.
Helps your baby sleep better and stay hydrated.
Strengthen the emotional bond between you and your baby.

The importance of colostrum is beyond measure because every drop counts.

Tips to Ensure Your Baby Receives Colostrum

Start breastfeeding within one hour after delivery.
Hold your baby skin-to-skin to stimulate milk flow.
Feed frequently (8–12 times a day) in the first few days.
Avoid giving honey, sugar water, or animal milk.
Seek help from a lactation consultant if you face any latching or feeding difficulty.

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FAQs on Common Myths vs Facts About Colostrum in India

Can I store colostrum if my baby is in the NICU?
Yes. You can hand-express and refrigerate it safely for your baby to consume later under hospital guidance.
How long does colostrum last before mature milk comes in?
Colostrum is produced for about 2–5 days before it transitions into mature breast milk.