Colostrum, often called “liquid gold,” is the initial milk produced by a mother’s body, designed for her newborn. This unique substance forms during pregnancy, preparing to nourish the baby from birth. It is the first food a baby receives, differing significantly from mature breast milk. This initial production is tailored to meet a newborn’s specific needs as they adapt to life outside the womb.
Understanding Colostrum
Colostrum is a thick, often yellowish or orange fluid, though it can also appear clear or creamy. This distinctive color comes from its high concentration of beta-carotene. Unlike mature milk, colostrum is packed with components beneficial for a newborn’s early development and protection. It contains antibodies, white blood cells, growth factors, and prebiotics.
Antibodies are abundant in colostrum and play a significant role in protecting the newborn against infections. These antibodies coat the baby’s intestines, helping to establish a healthy gut and preventing harmful bacteria from being absorbed. White blood cells bolster the newborn’s immune system, assisting the baby in fighting off pathogens. Growth factors support the development and repair of the gastrointestinal tract. Prebiotics also contribute to a healthy gut microbiome.
Typical Colostrum Volume
The amount of colostrum produced in the first few days is small, yet adequate for a newborn’s tiny stomach. On the first day, a newborn’s stomach is roughly the size of a cherry and can hold about 5 to 7 milliliters (mL) or 1 to 1.5 teaspoons per feeding. The concentrated nature of colostrum means these small volumes provide all necessary nutrients and fluids.
By the second day, a newborn’s stomach capacity increases. On day two, babies might consume 5-15 mL per feeding. By day three, the stomach expands to about the size of a walnut, holding approximately 22-27 mL (0.75-1 ounce) per feeding. Colostrum production gradually increases as the body transitions to producing transitional milk, which then evolves into mature milk around two weeks postpartum.
Ensuring Adequate Colostrum Intake
Ensuring a newborn receives sufficient colostrum involves several approaches. Early skin-to-skin contact after birth encourages the baby to seek the breast and promotes bonding. Frequent feeding on demand, typically 8-12 times or more within a 24-hour period, stimulates colostrum production and ensures the baby receives enough. Proper latching techniques are essential for effective milk transfer.
Observing cues from the baby can indicate adequate colostrum intake. These include the baby appearing content after feeds and showing periods of active swallowing during nursing. Tracking wet and soiled diapers is another reliable indicator:
In the first 24 hours, a baby should have at least one wet and one soiled diaper.
By day two, two wet diapers and two or more soiled diapers are expected.
By day five, at least six heavy wet diapers and two to three soft, yellow stools are expected.
When Colostrum Volume is a Concern
Parents may worry about their colostrum supply, especially given the small volumes produced initially. While true low supply during the colostrum phase is uncommon, concerns can arise if a baby is not latching well, appears unusually sleepy, or cries persistently. Newborns normally lose some weight in the first few days, but significant weight loss (more than 7-10% of birth weight), persistent jaundice, or a baby who is difficult to rouse can indicate more colostrum is needed.
If there are concerns about insufficient colostrum intake, reaching out to a lactation consultant or healthcare provider is important. They can assess feeding effectiveness and provide guidance. Hand expression of colostrum can be helpful, allowing small amounts to be collected and given to the baby via a spoon or syringe if direct feeding is challenging. In rare cases, supplementation might be considered to ensure the baby receives adequate nutrition.