How to collect colostrum safely and easily for new moms

news image

Colostrum contains essential antibodies and proteins that provide newborns with immune support and nourishment. If you’re a new mom looking to learn how to collect colostrum, Zextrasure will reveal the process, benefits, and storage tips to ensure you and your baby get the most out of this incredible resource.

1. What is colostrum?

Before diving into how to collect colostrum, it's essential to understand why this practice is so beneficial. Colostrum is the first breast milk produced by your body. It provides ideal nutrition for your baby because it:

Immune system support: Colostrum is loaded with antibodies, particularly immunoglobulin A (IgA), which helps protect your baby from infections. It acts as a natural vaccine, strengthening your newborn’s immune system in those crucial early days.
Gut health and digestion: Colostrum coats your baby’s digestive tract, creating a protective barrier that reduces the risk of gastrointestinal issues. It also helps your baby pass their first stool, meconium, more easily.
Rich in nutrients: Colostrum is high in protein, vitamins, and minerals that ensure your baby gets the perfect first meal for optimal growth and development.
Supports healthy weight gain: Babies who receive colostrum are more likely to achieve healthy weight gain, setting the stage for long-term health.

Colostrum or “liquid gold” provides important nutrients

2. Why do I need to think about how to collect colostrum?

During pregnancy, your breasts begin producing colostrum, though the timing varies for each person. In the final weeks, you can collect and freeze this milk in a process called “colostrum harvesting”.

Harvesting colostrum can be particularly helpful if your baby may face feeding challenges or difficulty regulating blood sugar levels after birth. This is especially important if your baby:

Is larger or smaller than expected for their gestational age.
Is part of a multiple birth (twins or triplets).
Has a cleft lip, palate, Down syndrome, or a heart condition.

3. When to start collecting colostrum

A key part of understanding how to collect colostrum is knowing the right time to begin. Most healthcare professionals recommend starting colostrum collection around 32 - 33 weeks of pregnancy. However, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider before beginning, especially if you have a high-risk pregnancy or are at risk of preterm labor.

Colostrum collection can typically begin at 32–33 weeks of pregnancy

4. Supplies needed for collecting colostrum

Before learning how to collect colostrum, gather the necessary supplies. Here’s what you’ll need:

Sterile syringes or small containers: These are used to store the colostrum safely. You can get these from your healthcare provider or purchase them at a pharmacy.
Breast milk storage bags: Useful for freezing and preserving your collected colostrum.
Warm compress: Helps stimulate milk flow.
Hand sanitizer or soap: Ensures your hands are clean before collecting colostrum.

5. How to collect colostrum: Step-by-Step Guide

Now that you have your supplies ready, here is a detailed explanation of how to collect colostrum with syringe effectively and safely.

How to collect colostrum

Practice good hygiene

Before practicing how to start collecting colostrum, wash your hands with soap and warm water. Proper hygiene is crucial to prevent contamination, as colostrum will be fed directly to your newborn.

Get comfortable and relax

Find a quiet and comfortable space where you can relax. Stress can inhibit milk flow, so take a few deep breaths and try to calm your mind. Using a warm compress on your breasts for a few minutes can also help stimulate colostrum production.

Use gentle hand expression

Hand expression is the best method for collecting colostrum. Here’s how to get colostrum out using this technique:

Place your thumb and forefinger about an inch behind your nipple.
Gently press your fingers back toward your chest wall and then compress them together.
Avoid squeezing the nipple directly; instead, focus on gentle, rhythmic motions.
Rotate your fingers around the areola and repeat the process until the colostrum starts to flow.

Collect the colostrum

When you collect colostrum, you should use a sterile syringe. Colostrum often comes out in small amounts, so be patient. If you’re using a syringe, you can draw the drops directly into it. Repeat the process on both breasts, as this may help stimulate more colostrum.

Note: If you don’t have a syringe, how to collect colostrum without syringe is using a clean spoon or small sterile container.

6. How to store colostrum

Understanding how to collect colostrum is only part of the equation; proper storage is equally important. Here’s how to store your colostrum to ensure it remains safe and effective for your baby.

Colostrum can be stored in the fridge at 0-4°C

Labeling: Write your name and the date and time of expression on the container or syringe.
Freezing: Place the container or syringe in a clean, resealable bag and store it in the freezer at -18°C.
Refrigeration: Keep colostrum in the fridge at 0-4°C for up to 24 hours before freezing.

7. Final thought

Learning how to collect colostrum is a valuable skill for any mother. This nutrient-dense liquid provides unparalleled benefits for your newborn and can offer peace of mind as you prepare for your breastfeeding journey.

Remember, every drop counts and the effort you put into collecting colostrum is a gift of love and nourishment for your little one. Happy collecting!