Colostrum Harvesting

As a private lactation consultant, one of the most important topics I can educate on is prenatal breastfeeding education and the early stages of breastfeeding. A topic I have been getting more and more questions on particularly is colostrum harvesting. This process can be very beneficial in your baby's early days, ensuring they receive the best possible start.

Whether a new parent wants to harvest/collect their colostrum before baby is a completely independent choice and is not required to have a successful breastfeeding journey. But if you have been curious about what colostrum harvesting is, the benefits, and how to do it, this blog post is for you!

TIP!: If you have colostrum in the freezer ready for when you go to the hospital to deliver, put a sticky note on your hospital bag to remind you to take the colostrum with you. I have seen it many times where parents forget to bring their expressed colostrum in the rush of heading to the hospital. The hospital will be able to store and give you your colostrum syringes whenever you need them.

What is Colostrum?

Colostrum is the first milk your body will make for your baby. Your breasts will start the process of making colostrum during pregnancy. Often referred to as “liquid gold,” it is a nutrient-rich substance packed with antibodies, proteins, and essential vitamins that protect your newborn from infections and help establish their immune system. Colostrum is produced in small amounts, but its concentrated composition provides everything your baby needs in those crucial first days. Also, you will not “run out” of colostrum if you do decide to harvest it before birth. Your body will simply know to make more (your body is pretty dang magical).

Why Harvest Colostrum?

Harvesting colostrum before your baby arrives can be beneficial for several reasons:

Having colostrum expressed before birth can ease the transition to breastfeeding, especially if you encounter any initial challenges with latching or milk production. Having extra colostrum can give parents relief and ease anxiety while they work on establishing breastfeeding and still ensuring the baby is getting nutrition.  If a baby needs supplementation in the hospital for any reason, we can give the baby your expressed colostrum. Also, if a caesarean birth is required, if there are any complications or delays in getting breastfeeding initiated, having extra colostrum can be very beneficial in your breastfeeding journey.

How to Harvest Colostrum

Harvesting colostrum is a relatively simple process, but it requires some preparation and understanding. See below for the recommended steps to collecting colostrum.

Consult with Your Healthcare Provider: Before starting colostrum harvesting, consult your healthcare provider to ensure it's appropriate for your situation. I always recommend discussing this process with your healthcare provider as nipple stimulation does release oxytocin which can stimulate uterus contractions. However, when we express colostrum, we are focusing on the whole breast, rather than the nipple for stimulation but this is why I always recommend talking to your provider first. Those at risk of premature labour or other complications may not be good candidates for colostrum harvesting.

Gather Supplies: You'll need clean, sterile containers or syringes for collecting the colostrum. Keeping the colostrum in syringes once collected is the easiest and safest way to store as well.

Hand Expression Technique:

Wash Your Hands: Start by washing your hands thoroughly to maintain hygiene.

Prepare Your Breasts: Gently massage your breasts to stimulate milk flow. You can also apply a warm compress to help with this process.

Express Colostrum: Place your thumb on top of your areola and your fingers underneath, forming a C shape. Gently push into the breast tissue, roll your fingers downward towards the nipple, and release to express colostrum. You can move your hand in a clock-like pattern to ensure you are expressing all areas of the breast.

Be patient; it might take a few minutes to see results.Also, keep expectations realistic. Remember, colostrum is very low-quantity but extremely high quality. Getting a few drops to a few mls is expected and great.  

Collect and Store: Collect the expressed colostrum in your sterile container or syringe. Store it in the refrigerator for up to 24 hours or freeze it for longer periods. Label the containers with the date and time of expression. TIP:

Practice Safe Storage: If you choose to freeze your colostrum, use breast milk storage bags or sterile containers. Ensure your freezer is at the correct temperature and store colostrum in small amounts to minimize waste.

Tips for Success

After discussing and approval from your healthcare provider, most woman can begin colostrum harvesting around 36-37weeks of pregnancy. This gives you ample time to collect your colostrum, just remember it must be frozen after 48 hours in the refrigerator.

Stay Relaxed: Stress and anxiety can impact your milk letdown. Try to relax and use soothing techniques while expressing.

Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to reach out to a lactation consultant or breastfeeding support group if you have any difficulties or questions.

Hand expression is a learned technique, meaning it is perfectly normal if you need some help perfecting the technique. That is what Lactation Consultants are here for.

Colostrum harvesting can be a valuable tool in preparing for your baby’s arrival. By understanding the process and following these guidelines, you can contribute to a smoother transition to breastfeeding and support your baby’s health and well-being.

For personalized support and guidance on colostrum harvesting or any other breastfeeding questions, feel free to contact me. Together, we can navigate this exciting journey and help you achieve your breastfeeding goals.

Nicole Major

The Village (Pre+Postnatal Support)

Lactation Consultant, In-home postpartum care nurse