Colostrum is the first milk produced by the breasts, present from about the 16th week of pregnancy until the first few days after birth. This thick, yellowish fluid is uniquely formulated for a newborn, rich in antibodies, white blood cells, and protective proteins that help build the baby’s immune system. Antenatal Colostrum Harvesting (ACH) is the practice of hand-expressing and collecting this early milk before delivery. Storing a supply ensures the baby has access to this nutrient-dense food immediately after birth if needed.
Recommended Start Time for Antenatal Harvesting
Healthcare providers generally advise beginning antenatal harvesting around 36 to 37 weeks of gestation. This timing is considered the safest window for most low-risk pregnancies, minimizing the theoretical risk of stimulating uterine contractions. Nipple stimulation releases oxytocin, the hormone responsible for triggering labor contractions.
While the uterus is not typically sensitive to oxytocin until late in the third trimester, beginning the practice too early could pose a risk. By 36 weeks, the baby is considered late preterm, and the risk of inducing labor is significantly lower.
Always seek consultation from a midwife or obstetrician before beginning the practice. They can review your medical history to confirm that antenatal harvesting is appropriate for you. Start with short, gentle sessions, such as 5 to 10 minutes once or twice a day, to learn the technique.
Safety Precautions and Contraindications
Antenatal colostrum harvesting is safe for most healthy individuals, but certain medical conditions are contraindications. The primary concern is that oxytocin release could potentially trigger preterm labor. Therefore, avoid antenatal expression if you have a history of threatened or actual premature labor in the current or previous pregnancies.
Do not attempt colostrum harvesting if you have a diagnosis of placenta previa or unexplained vaginal bleeding during the current pregnancy. Other contraindications include a cervical suture in place, known cervical incompetence, or a multiple pregnancy. These conditions increase the risk of preterm birth, making oxytocin stimulation a concern.
If approved to harvest, stop immediately if you experience cramping, regular uterine contractions, or vaginal bleeding. While mild, painless Braxton Hicks contractions are acceptable, report any painful or regular tightening to your healthcare provider. Prioritize safety by starting slowly and never forcing the process if it causes discomfort.
Step-by-Step Guide to Colostrum Collection
Antenatal colostrum harvesting relies solely on hand expression, as the small, concentrated volume can be lost in a breast pump. Begin by washing your hands and finding a comfortable, private place to sit, perhaps after a warm shower to encourage flow. Gently massage your breast, stroking from the chest wall toward the nipple for a few minutes to stimulate the milk ejection reflex.
To begin expressing, form a “C” shape a few centimeters back from the areola, placing your thumb above the nipple and your forefinger below it. Press your thumb and finger inward toward your chest wall, then gently compress the tissue behind the areola. This action should not be painful; avoid sliding your fingers over the skin or pinching the nipple itself.
As drops appear, collect them using a small, sterile container, such as a medicine cup or a clean spoon. The easiest storage method is drawing the fluid directly into sterile oral syringes (typically 1 ml or 3 ml sizes). Label each syringe immediately with the date and time of collection, cap it, and store the syringes in a sealed plastic bag in the freezer. Colostrum remains viable in the freezer for up to six months.
Benefits of Collecting Colostrum Before Birth
A stored supply of colostrum offers several practical advantages for the newborn’s first few days, especially when immediate or continuous breastfeeding is difficult. This supply is highly beneficial for babies born to parents with pre-existing or gestational diabetes. These infants are at a higher risk of developing low blood sugar (hypoglycemia) after birth. A quick feed of colostrum can help stabilize their glucose levels, potentially avoiding formula supplementation.
A ready supply is also helpful if a planned C-section or a long induction is scheduled, as these can delay the onset of mature milk production. Stored colostrum ensures the baby receives the rich immunological benefits of the first milk if they are separated from the parent. Separation might occur due to admission to the neonatal intensive care unit or a congenital condition like a cleft lip or palate. Furthermore, the practice allows the parent to gain confidence and become familiar with the hand-expression technique before the demands of a newborn arrive.