Antenatal Expression of Colostrum
Antenatal expression of colostrum
During pregnancy, the breasts produce their first milk, known as colostrum. Colostrum is high in antibodies and protective substances that help to support a newborn's immunity. Although not much colostrum is produced, it is very high in energy, protein and fat, and is easy for newborns to digest.
So… what is colostrum?
Colostrum is a type of early breast milk, produced by the breasts from around 20 weeks of pregnancy until the first few days after birth. Colostrum is a thick, sticky, yellowish liquid.
What are the benefits of collecting colostrum in pregnancy?
There are several benefits from expressing colostrum from 36-37 weeks of pregnancy onwards (always check with your antenatal team prior to expressing).
These include:
- helping to support successful breastfeeding after birth
- providing baby with a high energy, nutrient rich substance in their first few days of
life whilst mothers wait for their milk to come in
- building a supply of colostrum is useful in case the baby needs extra feeds
- may be helpful if you'd like to avoid offering formula
- managing potential feeding problems
- managing feeds for babies of diabetic mothers where there is a risk of having problems maintaining a normal blood sugar level
- having a store of colostrum if the baby is likely to need special care and is likely to be separated from their mother
Are there any reasons not to express colostrum during pregnancy?
Although there are benefits in expressing colostrum during pregnancy, there are times when it’s not recommended as there is a risk of premature labour by stimulating the breasts.
Do not express colostrum if you:
- are at risk of, or have had, threatened premature labour
- have had a cervical suture inserted
- have been diagnosed with cervical issues
- have experienced vaginal bleeding during your pregnancy
- have been diagnosed with placenta praevia
- cannot store colostrum safely and hygienically
- have been advised by your maternity care provider not to express colostrum
When and how to express your colostrum
After speaking to your antenatal team you may start expressing from 36-37 weeks onwards. Pick a time when you’re relaxed and feeling calm.
Wash your hands with soap and water and dry well.
Using your thumb on top of your breast and your forefingers underneath, gently press your fingers towards your chest.
Compress the breast tissue, hold briefly and then release. Try not to squeeze or pinch the nipple.
Collect the colostrum in a sterile syringe.
Express each breast twice during each expression. You can collect colostrum 2-3 times a day. Between expressions, store the colostrum in the fridge, then after 48 hours or once the syringe is full label with the date/time of collection and then into a plastic bag and store in the freezer.
Aim to express 2 to 3 times each day. Start gently and slowly, eventually building up to 3 to 5 minutes of expressing on each breast.