Colostrum, often referred to as “first milk,” is nourishment produced during pregnancy and after childbirth. This specialized milk is typically yellowish or clear and thick in consistency, providing a rich blend of nutrients tailored for a newborn’s first feeds. It contains high levels of protein, salts, and vitamins, along with a significant concentration of antibodies and white blood cells that contribute to a baby’s developing immune system. Beyond its nutritional density, colostrum also acts as a natural laxative, assisting the newborn in passing meconium, their first stool, which can help prevent jaundice. Antenatal colostrum harvesting involves collecting small amounts of milk before birth, creating a reserve for use if needed.
Optimal Timing and Safety Considerations
Antenatal colostrum harvesting is typically recommended from 36 to 37 weeks of pregnancy. This timing is advised to prioritize safety, as nipple stimulation can release oxytocin, a hormone that causes uterine contractions. While expressing colostrum is generally not considered a trigger for premature labor in low-risk pregnancies, waiting until this later stage ensures that if contractions were to occur, the baby would be considered full-term.
If uterine contractions or discomfort are experienced during expression, it is important to stop immediately and seek guidance from a healthcare provider. Consulting with a doctor, midwife, or lactation consultant before beginning any collection is always advised. This discussion ensures that antenatal colostrum harvesting is suitable for an individual’s specific pregnancy circumstances and addresses any potential concerns.
Reasons for Antenatal Colostrum Harvesting
Antenatal colostrum harvesting offers benefits, particularly in situations where a newborn might experience challenges with early feeding or require additional nutritional support. One common scenario involves mothers with gestational diabetes or pre-existing diabetes, as their babies may be at an increased risk of low blood sugar levels after birth. Having a supply of colostrum on hand can help stabilize the baby’s blood glucose and potentially reduce the need for formula supplementation.
The practice is also beneficial for those expecting babies with certain medical conditions that could impact initial feeding, such as cleft lip or palate, or specific cardiac conditions. Additionally, mothers who have a history of low milk supply in previous pregnancies or are expecting multiples might find antenatal expression reassuring, providing a valuable reserve to support their babies’ early needs. Preparing colostrum in advance can be especially helpful if a planned cesarean birth or labor induction is anticipated, as these events can sometimes delay the onset of mature milk production.
Practical Steps for Collection
Hand expression is the recommended method for collecting colostrum; breast pumps are generally not advised. Before beginning, it is important to wash hands thoroughly and ensure the collection container, such as a small, sterile syringe or a clean cup, is ready. Finding a comfortable and relaxed position can help facilitate milk flow.
Starting with gentle breast massage for a few minutes can help stimulate the milk ejection reflex. To express, form a “C” shape with the thumb and forefinger about 2 to 3 centimeters back from the nipple, on the edge of the areola. Gently press the fingers and thumb back towards the chest wall, then compress them together, taking care not to slide the fingers towards the nipple or pull on the skin. The action should be a rhythmic press, compress, and release.
Colostrum often appears as small drops, and it can take several minutes for any to appear. If the flow slows, reposition the fingers around the breast to express from different areas. Typically, sessions last 5-10 minutes per breast, and small volumes are normal.
Storage and Administration of Colostrum
Once collected, colostrum needs proper storage. It is commonly collected directly into small, sterile syringes (3-5 mL) or clean, food-grade containers. Each container should be clearly labeled with the date and time of expression, along with the individual’s name. Colostrum can be stored at room temperature for up to four hours. It can be refrigerated at 4°C (40°F) for up to four days, or even five days in some guidelines.
For longer storage, colostrum can be frozen at -18°C (0°F) or colder for up to six months, with optimal quality maintained for three to four months. When transporting to the hospital, it should be kept in an insulated bag with ice packs to maintain a cold temperature. To thaw frozen colostrum, it can be placed in the refrigerator for gradual thawing or in a cup of warm water for quicker use. Once thawed, colostrum should be used within 24 hours and should not be refrozen. Administration to the newborn can be done using the same syringe, a small spoon, or a tiny cup.
Important Medical Considerations
While antenatal colostrum harvesting offers many advantages, certain medical conditions or pregnancy complications may make the practice unsuitable or require strict medical supervision. It is generally not recommended to express colostrum if there is a history of threatened or actual premature labor. Other contraindications include conditions such as placenta previa, an incompetent cervix, or the presence of a cervical suture. Any experience of vaginal bleeding during pregnancy also warrants avoiding colostrum expression. For pregnancies involving multiples, antenatal expression is often considered a relative contraindication, meaning it requires careful individual assessment by a healthcare provider. Discussing all aspects of pregnancy and health history with a doctor or midwife before starting colostrum collection is paramount to ensure the safety of both the pregnant individual and the baby.