As an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC), I know how important it is to empower expectant parents with accurate and helpful information. One beneficial practice that can make a world of difference for both mother and baby is hand expression and colostrum harvesting. In this post, I’ll explain the benefits of hand expression, provide a step-by-step guide on how to hand express, and highlight the populations that would benefit most from this practice.
Important Note: Before beginning colostrum harvesting, always consult with your healthcare provider, especially if you are under 37 weeks of pregnancy or if you have any complications.
What Is Colostrum Harvesting?
Colostrum is the first milk your body produces during pregnancy and just after birth. Often referred to as “liquid gold,” it’s full of essential nutrients, antibodies, and immune factors that are critical for your baby’s health in the early days of life. Colostrum harvesting involves collecting this precious milk before your baby is born, usually through hand expression.
Benefits of Hand Expression and Colostrum Harvesting
Support for Babies Who Have Trouble Latching: Babies born early or those who have difficulty latching may struggle to get enough milk in the early days. Harvested colostrum can be used, ensuring your baby receives the essential nutrients and immune support they need.
Emergency or Backup Supply: Having a small supply of colostrum collected in advance can provide peace of mind in case of complications or if your baby is separated from you. Having this milk on hand ensures your baby gets the first nutrients they need, even if breastfeeding is delayed.
Immune System Support for Your Baby: Colostrum is packed with antibodies that help protect your newborn’s immune system during those early days. If you’re at higher risk for complications (such as maternal illness or pregnancy conditions like hypertension), having colostrum harvested can ensure your baby gets that protection right away.
Boosts Early Nutrition: Colostrum provides all the nutrients your baby needs in their first few days of life. By having a stash available, you ensure that your baby gets all of these essential vitamins, minerals, and fats that may be crucial for their development.
Who Would Benefit from Colostrum Harvesting?
There are certain populations of mothers and babies who may benefit from colostrum harvesting:
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- Premature Babies: Babies born before 37 weeks often have difficulty breastfeeding. Colostrum harvesting can provide them with the essential nutrients and immune support they need during their first few days of life.
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- Babies with Medical Conditions: If your baby has specific medical conditions (such as congenital heart defects, respiratory distress, or Down syndrome), having extra colostrum on hand can offer nutritional and immune system support.
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- Multiple Births: Expecting twins or more? Colostrum harvesting can help ensure that all of your babies receive the nutrition they need early on, especially if there are challenges with breastfeeding.
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- Mothers with Diabetes: Whether you have gestational diabetes or pre-existing diabetes, harvesting colostrum can be especially beneficial in ensuring that your baby receives the best early nutrition and immune protection.
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- Previous Breastfeeding Challenges: If you’ve had difficulties breastfeeding in previous pregnancies, colostrum harvesting may provide extra reassurance and support for this one.
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- Mothers with Hypertensive Disorders of Pregnancy (HDP): If you’ve been diagnosed with hypertension during pregnancy (including preeclampsia), you may be at a higher risk for complications, which can affect breastfeeding. Having colostrum ready in advance can be a great safeguard for your baby’s early nutrition.
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- Mothers Who Experience Assisted Deliveries or C-Sections: Assisted deliveries (forceps or vacuum extractions) or cesarean sections may delay the onset of milk production or the baby’s ability to latch. Hand expressing in the first 24 hours after birth can jump-start milk production, and having colostrum on hand ensures your baby gets the early nutrients they need.
When Should I Start Harvesting Colostrum?
IMPORTANT: Only begin harvesting colostrum after 37 weeks of pregnancy, unless otherwise advised by your healthcare provider. Premature harvesting (before 37 weeks) can stimulate early labour. Always consult with your healthcare provider before starting colostrum harvesting to ensure it’s appropriate for your situation.
How to Hand Express Colostrum: Step-by-Step Guide
Hand expression is a gentle, effective, and natural way to collect colostrum. Please watch the following video from More Milk Sooner for a step by step explanation on how to hand express:
Hand Expression in the First 24 Hours After Birth
It’s recommended that you hand express within the first 24 hours after birth to help establish your milk supply and provide your baby with the colostrum they need. After that, pumping can be used to continue stimulating milk production. Hand expression in the early hours helps stimulate milk flow and can provide an immediate source of nourishment for your baby. This is especially helpful if baby is too sleepy to latch or having difficulties maintaining the latch.
Tips for Success
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- Be Patient: It may take a few tries before you see any colostrum. Hand expression can take time, and it’s important to stay calm and relaxed.
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- Avoid Pumps Initially: Hand expression is often more effective for colostrum collection, especially in the first 24 hours. Pumping may be more suitable for longer-term use once your milk comes in.
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- Take Deep Breaths: If you’re feeling stressed, it can affect your milk letdown. Relaxation and patience are key.
A Word of Caution: Talk to Your Healthcare Provider First
Before beginning any form of colostrum harvesting, it’s essential to consult your healthcare provider, especially if you’re under 37 weeks pregnant, or if you have a pregnancy complication (such as hypertension, diabetes, or a history of preterm labor). If you experience any pain, discomfort, or signs of early labor (such as contractions or spotting), stop the process and seek care if needed.
Conclusion
Hand expression and colostrum harvesting are empowering practices that can provide both immediate and long-term benefits for you and your baby. Whether you’re preparing for a complicated delivery, helping a premature baby, or giving your little one a nutritional head start, this practice can be incredibly rewarding. Just remember to consult your healthcare provider and stay patient as you collect the colostrum that’s so crucial for your baby’s early development.
If this post was helpful, share it with others who might benefit from the information. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have questions or need more personalized support along your lactation journey. Stay tuned for more lactation tips and resources!
