01/06/2026
Let’s talk about the benefits of collecting collostrum while pregnant, and then using it in the hospital for delivery!
No, it’s not mandatory.
No, you’re not failing if you don’t do it.
BUT there are some real benefits to collecting colostrum before birth and bringing it with you to the hospital
• Colostrum is literal liquid gold
It’s packed with antibodies, immune support, and gut-healing magic. A few drops goes a LONG way for a brand new baby.
• It can take pressure off those first feeds
Milk doesn’t always come in immediately. Having colostrum on hand can reduce stress if baby needs a little extra support early on.
• Helpful if baby needs blood sugar support
Especially beneficial if you’re diabetic, baby is early, or there’s concern for low blood sugars.
• Great backup if baby has trouble latching at first
C-sections, sleepy babies, tongue ties, birth meds, lots of reasons feeding can be weird at first. Colostrum gives you options.
• It can protect breastfeeding confidence
Knowing you already have something for your baby can calm the “oh my god I’m failing” spiral at 2am in the hospital.
• You control what baby gets
If your goal is breastmilk and supplementation becomes needed, having your own colostrum lets that still be part of the plan.
A few important reminders because the internet loves extremes:
– You don’t need a freezer stash
– You don’t need ounces
– Drops are enough
– And some people just… don’t get much. That’s NORMAL.
Colostrum harvesting doesn’t mean your labor will start, it doesn’t mean you’re doing “more,” and it definitely doesn’t mean you’re a better mom.
It’s just a tool.
One of many.
And you’re allowed to use it — or not — without guilt.
