19/10/2022
Antenatal colostrum expressing can be a great help
What is it?
Colostrum harvesting is hand expressing colostrum (the first milk) in the final weeks of pregnancy and storing for possible use after birth.
This colostrum gets replaced, so there's no concerns about using it up before the baby arrives. It also doesn't cause the next stage of lactation (milk coming in), as the placenta needs to be delivered for this to happen.
Why do it?
This used to only be suggested for families who knew their baby might have challenges with blood sugar or feeding after birth, for example gestational diabetes, or cleft lip. But now, it's generally accepted that anyone that wishes to can store colostrum.
But why is it worth doing? Firstly, it's a great way of familiarising yourself with your anatomy, and how to hand express.
But also, it can be hard to predict which babies might need extra support with feeding and blood sugar after birth, so it's great to know you have some stored in case you need it.
When should I do it?
Usually suggested from 36weeks. Speak to your midwife about your own individual circumstances, especially if you know you're more likely to give birth early, e.g. twins.
You can do it 2 or 3 times a day for a few minutes at a time. Stop immediately if you have any discomfort or experience tummy pain.
Where?
Wherever you like, but the key is finding somewhere you feel relaxed and comfortable.
A private space is often useful. You'll also need to have access to somewhere you can wash your hands, and have a freezer for storage.
How?
First you'll need to get hold of some syringes with caps so that they can be sealed, and some labels to put on them once used.
Wash your hands.
Do some breast massage, anything you like really, but whatever you do should be comfortable and warm. This is more about getting relaxed and comfortable than moving the colostrum.
Now make a C shape with your thumb and first two fingers. Feel back from your ni**le until you feel a change; a firmer, lumpy texture. This is the spot you'll be compressing.
Using the C shape you've created, compress for a couple of seconds in a firm but comfortable way and then release for a couple of seconds. Repeat. Build up this slow, steady rhythm without dragging the skin or causing discomfort. It can take a bit of time for the colostrum to come, or you may need to move your C shape back or forward ever so slightly until you 'hit the spot'.
Some people find a gentle roll forward with your fingers can be useful. Others may find pushing back a little toward the chest wall before compressing helpful.
There are ducts all the way around the breast so once you've finished the first spot you can move your C shape around to a different place.
Colostrum is often a yellowy/golden colour, but may be clear too. You may get no colostrum at all, or just get a glistening of it on the ni**le, or you may get drops coming out. Anything is normal! If you don't get any or much colostrum at this point it does NOT mean you will have a low milk supply.
Any syringes with colostrum in need to be labelled with your name and the date, capped and put into a clean box in the freezer. Make sure the box is deep in the freezer. They can be stored for 6 months, so even if you don't use them in the first few days, you can use them later down the line. (Some people like to think of it as a little immune booster!)
The more you practise the more likely you are to get some colostrum to store.
Remember, any discomfort at any time please stop
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