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How to Collect Colostrum

Colostrum, often called “liquid gold,” is the nutrient-rich first milk produced by your breasts during pregnancy and shortly after childbirth. If you’re planning to breastfeed or want to ensure your baby has access to this vital substance, you can collect colostrum before giving birth. This process, known as antenatal expression of colostrum (AEC) , is typically done in the final weeks of pregnancy under medical guidance. Here’s how to safely collect colostrum:

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1. When Should You Start Collecting Colostrum?

• Timing : Antenatal colostrum collection is usually recommended between 36 and 38 weeks of pregnancy , but it should only be done if approved by your healthcare provider.
• Why Wait Until Late Pregnancy? : Stimulating your breasts too early in pregnancy could potentially trigger premature labor, so it’s important to avoid starting too soon.

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2. Who Should Consider Collecting Colostrum?

Not all women need to collect colostrum, but it may be particularly helpful for:

• Women with gestational diabetes , whose babies may benefit from extra energy reserves.
• Mothers expecting preterm babies , who might have difficulty breastfeeding initially.
• Women with breastfeeding challenges , such as flat or inverted nipples.
• Babies with medical conditions that may make feeding difficult after birth.

Always consult your doctor or midwife before starting antenatal colostrum collection.

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3. Steps to Safely Collect Colostrum

Here’s how to collect colostrum at home:

Step 1: Wash Your Hands

• Thoroughly wash your hands with soap and water to prevent contamination.
• Ensure your nails are clean and short to avoid scratching your skin.

Step 2: Prepare a Clean Container

• Use a sterile syringe or small container provided by your healthcare provider.
• Alternatively, use a clean, food-grade container with a tight-fitting lid.

Step 3: Gently Stimulate Your Breasts

• Find a comfortable position and gently massage your breasts to encourage let-down.
• Roll your nipple between your fingers to stimulate milk flow.

Step 4: Hand Express Colostrum

• Place your thumb and forefinger about an inch behind your nipple, forming a “C” shape.
• Gently press back toward your chest wall (don’t squeeze the nipple itself).
• Compress your fingers together and release rhythmically to mimic the sucking motion of a baby.
• Be patient—it may take a few minutes for colostrum to appear, especially early on.

Step 5: Collect the Drops

• Colostrum is usually secreted in small drops, so use a sterile syringe to collect it directly from the nipple.
• Avoid using a pump, as pumps are less effective for collecting colostrum due to its thick consistency.

Step 6: Store Properly

• Label the container with the date and time of collection.
• Store the colostrum in the refrigerator for up to 48 hours or freeze it for longer storage (up to 3 months in a freezer).
• Use small portions (e.g., 1-2 milliliters per container) to avoid waste.

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4. Tips for Successful Colostrum Collection

• Start Slowly : Begin with just a few minutes per session to avoid overstimulating your breasts.
• Be Patient : It’s normal to collect only a few drops at first. Over time, you’ll produce more.
• Stay Hydrated : Drink plenty of water to support milk production.
• Avoid Overdoing It : Limit sessions to once or twice a day to minimize the risk of triggering contractions.

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5. When Should You Stop Collecting Colostrum?

Stop collecting colostrum if:

• You experience any signs of preterm labor, such as regular contractions, pelvic pressure, or back pain.
• Your healthcare provider advises you to stop for any reason.

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6. What Happens After Birth?

After delivery, your body will naturally transition from producing colostrum to mature breast milk. If you’ve collected colostrum antenatally, it can be given to your baby in the first few days if needed. This is especially helpful if:

• Your baby has difficulty latching.
• You’re separated from your baby temporarily (e.g., in the NICU).
• You’re waiting for your mature milk supply to come in.

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7. When Should You Contact Your Healthcare Provider?

While antenatal colostrum collection is generally safe, contact your doctor or midwife immediately if:

• You feel uterine cramping or contractions after expressing.
• You notice any unusual discharge, bleeding, or discomfort.
• You’re unsure whether colostrum collection is appropriate for your situation.

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