Nature's First Superfood for Your Baby

A New Mums Guide to Antenatal Expressing

Kerrie Adams, Registered Midwife & IBCLC

 

While your growing bump takes centre stage and thoughts of labour occupy your mind, an extraordinary process unfolds deep within the intricate network of your mammary glands, your body is orchestrating a rich golden elixir—a living, dynamic substance perfectly tailored for your baby's arrival.

This liquid gold, known as colostrum, is nature's first gift to your newborn. Colostrum contains vital immunological properties and helps to colonise the baby’s gut microbiome with healthy bacteria that protects against allergy and disease. It also contains the perfect balance of proteins, fats and micronutrients needed, as well as acting as a laxative to help the passing of the first tarry meconium stools.

Colostrum serves as the precursor to breast milk, laying the foundation for the nourishment that will soon sustain your bundle of joy. Its unique composition is perfectly tailored to meet your newborn's immediate needs and support their transition to life outside the womb. By ensuring your baby receives colostrum in those first critical hours and days, you're giving them an invaluable head start in building a robust immune system for life.

In our Mammae community, we often hear from new mothers who wish they had known more about colostrum earlier in their pregnancy journey. Many express a common sentiment: "I wish I had been better informed and prepared." This knowledge gap can lead to missed opportunities, such as collecting and storing colostrum during pregnancy—a practice particularly beneficial for mothers with certain health conditions or those expecting multiples. We'll delve deeper into the practice of collecting colostrum later in this article, providing you with all the information you need to make the best choices for you and your baby.

The immune-boosting power of colostrum is a testament to the intricate design and intelligence of nature, providing your newborn with a tailor-made immune support system at a time when they need it most. Understanding the purpose and importance of colostrum is crucial for all expectant mothers, regardless of their feeding plans. It's not just about feeding your baby—it's about appreciating the incredible ways in which your body prepares for your little one's arrival and early development. It empowers women to make informed decisions about their baby's earliest nutrition and helps them feel more confident as they approach those first precious days of motherhood. By sharing this knowledge, we aim to ensure that every mother in our community feels prepared and supported from the very beginning of her breastfeeding journey.

 

"Colostrum is like a concentrated dose of everything your baby needs to get the best possible start in life.”

 Mammae founder, Erin Deger

 

Let's delve deeper into the fascinating world of colostrum, nature's liquid gold, and uncover its essential benefits for your newborn and how you can prepare during your last trimester. Whether breastfeeding is part of your plan or not, understanding colostrum is a crucial aspect of your journey into motherhood. Join us as we explore this wonderous substance that plays a vital role in giving your baby the best possible start in life.

 

 

What is Colostrum and Why is it So Important?

Colostrum is the earliest form of breast milk, produced by expectant mothers in the final stages of pregnancy and during the first few days after birth. This thick, yellowish fluid might not look like much, but a mother's colostrum is a powerful living, dynamic substance perfectly tailored to her newborn's needs. Nature's ingenuity in creating colostrum is truly remarkable, and no artificial substitute can fully replicate its unique and complex composition. 

 

Nature's First Immunity Booster for Your Newborn

One of the most remarkable aspects of colostrum is its ability to supercharge your baby's immune system with a potent arrangement of immune-boosting compounds, carefully tailored by your body to meet your baby's specific needs. 

The immune-boosting effects of colostrum are both immediate and long-lasting, offering a comprehensive shield of protection for your newborn. From the moment your baby first latches, colostrum provides a crucial first line of defence against environmental pathogens. This immediate protection is complemented by its role in establishing a healthy gut microbiome, which is essential for long-term immune function.

But colostrum's benefits extend far beyond these initial stages. The unique components in this liquid gold help "train" your baby's immune cells, potentially reducing the risk of infections and allergies later in life. Some studies even suggest that the immune-boosting effects of colostrum may last for months or even years, highlighting its profound impact on your child's developing immune system.

Research has consistently demonstrated the power of colostrum in safeguarding infant health. Babies who receive colostrum have been shown to have a lower risk of respiratory and gastrointestinal infections in their first year of life. For premature infants, colostrum is particularly crucial, as it can significantly reduce the risk of necrotising enterocolitis, a serious intestinal condition.

What makes colostrum truly remarkable is its living dynamic nature. It contains active cells that cannot be replicated artificially. While science has made great strides in understanding the composition of colostrum, creating an artificial substitute that matches its complexity, adaptability, and living nature remains beyond our current man-made capabilities. The intricate interplay between a mother's body and her newborn, facilitated by colostrum, is a testament to the irreplaceable value of nature's design in early infant nutrition and development.

This natural wonder, perfectly tailored by your body for your baby, provides a foundation of health that no artificial substitute can match. By ensuring your newborn receives colostrum, you're giving them an invaluable head start in building a robust immune system for life! 

 

"Colostrum is like a blueprint for your baby's future health. It sets the stage for how their immune system will function and how their body will process nutrients throughout their life."

Clinical Naturopath BHSc | Adelaide Poschelk

 

THE COLOSTRUM COMPOSITION 

Antibodies: Colostrum is packed with high concentrations of immunoglobulins, particularly IgA. These antibodies coat your baby's digestive tract, forming a protective barrier against harmful bacteria and viruses.

Leukocytes: These white blood cells in colostrum actively fight pathogens and help educate your baby's developing immune system.

Lactoferrin: This protein has powerful antimicrobial properties and helps regulate iron absorption.

Growth factors: Colostrum contains various growth factors that support the development of your baby's immune system and gut health.

Oligosaccharides: These complex sugars act as prebiotics, promoting the growth of beneficial gut bacteria and supporting the development of a healthy microbiome.

Cytokines: These proteins help regulate immune responses and inflammation, contributing to the overall immune-boosting effects of colostrum.

Lysozyme: An enzyme with antimicrobial properties that can break down the cell walls of certain bacteria.

Vitamin A: Colostrum contains three times more vitamin A than mature breast milk, supporting your baby's vision, skin health, and immune function.

Minerals: High concentrations of minerals such as zinc, magnesium, and copper, which support various aspects of newborn development and immune function.

Epidermal Growth Factor (EGF): This protein promotes cell growth and may help in the development and repair of intestinal tissues.

Nucleotides: These compounds play a role in various biological processes and may support the rapid cell division and growth in newborns.

Low fat content: The low fat content of colostrum makes it easily digestible for newborns with immature digestive systems.

Natural laxative effect: Colostrum helps newborns pass their first stool (meconium), potentially reducing the risk of jaundice.

Insulin-like Growth Factors (IGFs): These proteins support overall growth and development, particularly of the intestinal tissues.

Beta-carotene: With ten times the concentration found in mature milk, beta-carotene gives colostrum its golden hue and offers potent antioxidant properties.

 

Is Antenatal Expressing Safe?

A large Australian study (the DAME study) showed that women with diabetes and a low-risk pregnancy can safely express colostrum in late pregnancy without causing harm to their babies. It also found that the babies of some first-time mothers who expressed colostrum during pregnancy were less likely to need formula in the first 24 hours of life.

Antenatal expression is generally recommended after 36 weeks gestation due to concerns that earlier expression may stimulate the release of oxytocin, potentially triggering premature uterine contractions and labour.

It is important not to express antenatally if you have any of the following conditions or experience these symptoms before, during, or after expressing:

• Previous experience of early labour signs or actual preterm birth
• Stitches in the cervix to prevent early labour
• Low-lying placenta or any unexplained vaginal bleeding
• Unusually long contractions (lasting more than a minute and a half)
• Contractions occurring very close together (more than 5 in 10 minutes)
• Noticeable reduction in your baby's movements
• Any signs that your baby might be in distress (as detected by monitoring)
• Any other pregnancy complications or conditions your doctor has identified as high-risk

Important: 

If you have any of the following conditions or experience these symptoms before, during, or after expressing, stop immediately and contact your midwife, doctor, or the maternity assessment unit. Always monitor your baby's movements before and after expressing, and follow your healthcare provider's recommendations regarding the timing and frequency of antenatal expressing.

 

When Does Colostrum Production Begin?

Many expectant mothers are surprised to learn that colostrum production can begin as early as the second trimester of pregnancy. However, it's important to note that while production begins at this time, most women won't notice any leakage or be able to express colostrum until much later in pregnancy. It's equally normal not to see any signs of colostrum until after the baby is born.

Some common indicators include:

Leaking breasts: Some women may experience small amounts of colostrum leaking from their nipples, especially during the third trimester. 

Changes in breast appearance: The areola may darken and enlarge, and the breasts themselves might feel fuller or more tender.

It's crucial to remember that every woman's body is different. Some may notice signs of colostrum early in pregnancy, while others may not see any until after birth. Both scenarios are entirely normal and don't necessarily indicate any issues with milk production or breastfeeding ability.

Understanding the timeline of colostrum production can help expectant mothers feel more prepared for breastfeeding. However, it's always best to consult with a healthcare provider or lactation consultant for personalised advice and support throughout this journey.

 

How Much Colostrum Will I Produce? 

One of the most common concerns new mothers have is whether they're producing enough milk for their baby. Antenatal colostrum harvesting typically yields very small amounts. Expect to collect about 0.1-0.5 ml per expression session. Daily totals may range from 2-20 ml, similar to early postpartum production. Some mothers may express more, while others might not see any visible colostrum before birth. This variation is normal and doesn't predict future milk supply. Express for about 10 minutes, twice daily, starting from 36-37 weeks with your healthcare provider's approval. 

Use clean syringes or small containers for collection due to the tiny amounts. Remember, even these small quantities are perfect for your newborn's marble-sized stomach. The goal is familiarity with the technique and a potential small reserve, not large-scale collection – because that's precisely what your newborn's tiny tummy needs.

 

Preparing Your Body for Colostrum Production

While your body naturally prepares for colostrum production, there are ways you can support this process:

1. Breast massage: Gentle breast massage can help stimulate colostrum production and familiarise you with hand expression techniques. Our Mammae Breast Massage Oil is specially formulated to nourish and prepare your breasts for this important task.

2. Hand expression practice: From around 36 weeks of pregnancy, you can start practising hand expression. This not only helps you become comfortable with the technique but can also allow you to collect and store colostrum for after birth if needed.

3. Nutrition: Eating a balanced diet rich in protein, healthy fats, and nutrients like calcium and iron can support your body's colostrum production.

 

 

The Art of Colostrum Harvesting: A Ritual of Preparation

Creating a colostrum harvesting ritual can be a beautiful way to connect with your body and prepare for your baby's arrival. 

From 36 weeks of pregnancy, some healthcare providers recommend antenatal colostrum expression. This practice involves gently hand-expressing and collecting small amounts of colostrum before birth. While not necessary for all pregnancies, it can offer several benefits for expectant mothers and their babies:

1. Building Breastfeeding Confidence: Learning to hand express before birth can help mothers feel more comfortable with breastfeeding techniques, potentially easing anxiety about feeding their newborn.

2. Creating a Colostrum Reserve: Collecting and freezing small amounts of colostrum can provide a backup supply for use after birth. This can be particularly valuable if there are initial breastfeeding challenges or if the baby needs supplemental feeding.

3. Potential Milk Production Boost: Some studies suggest that antenatal expression may positively influence postpartum milk production, though more research is needed to confirm this benefit.

4. Preparation for Special Circumstances: For mothers with certain health conditions (such as gestational diabetes) or those expecting multiples, having a colostrum supply can be especially beneficial.

It's crucial to note that antenatal expression isn't recommended for all pregnancies. Consult with your healthcare provider or a certified lactation consultant before attempting this practice. They can provide personalised guidance based on your individual needs and pregnancy progression.

If approved, your healthcare provider can demonstrate the proper technique for gentle hand expression and provide guidelines for safe collection and storage of colostrum. Remember, even small amounts of this "liquid gold" can be valuable, as a newborn's tiny tummy is about the size of a marble at birth.

By considering antenatal colostrum expression, you're taking a proactive step in preparing for your breastfeeding journey. However, whether you choose to express antenatally or not, rest assured that your body will naturally prepare to nourish your newborn from the moment of birth.

 

     Here's how to get started:

1. Always wash your hands before expressing.

2. Find a quiet, comfortable space where you can relax.

3. Applying a warm compress to your breast or expressing after a warm bath or shower can help the flow of colostrum.

4. Begin with a gentle breast massage using Mammae Breast Massage Oil to stimulate circulation and relax the breast tissue.

5. Put your thumb above the nipple and your first few fingers below the nipple. You will be cupping the breast in a ‘C’ shape.

6. With your thumb and fingers, feel a few centimetres back from the nipple.

7. Press back towards your chest, then compress (press your fingers together), and release.

8. Repeat this process, building up a rhythm. Press, compress, release.

9. Collect the colostrum into a clean container, like a syringe (1ml or 2ml)

10. Store collected colostrum properly in the freezer, labelled with the date.

Many mums face bumps in the road when they start breastfeeding, but don't worry – you're getting a head start! As you gently express colostrum, you're building confidence and skills that will serve you well. Think of it as a special bonding time with your baby, even before they arrive. The gentle art of hand expression you're learning now could be your secret weapon if challenges pop up. 

And while harvesting colostrum can provide a valuable backup, it's important to remember that your body will continue producing this liquid gold after birth. If you find yourself not needing your stored colostrum because you've successfully established early exclusive breastfeeding, this is not a cause for commiseration, rather celebrate this achievement, mama! 

 

"Harvesting colostrum can be a meditative practice. It's a time to slow down, reconnect and focus on the remarkable work your body is doing to prepare for your baby." 

Mammae Founder, Erin Deger.

 

 

When Does Colostrum Transition to Breast Milk?

The transition from colostrum to mature breast milk is a gradual process that typically begins 2-5 days after birth. This phase, known as transitional milk, can last up to two weeks postpartum. During this time, you may notice your breasts becoming fuller and warmer as your milk "comes in." The colour of your milk will slowly change from golden colostrum to a bluish-white hue. By about 10-15 days after delivery, most women have fully transitioned to mature milk production. However, it's important to remember that every mother's journey is unique, and factors such as first-time motherhood or caesarean delivery may slightly alter this timeline.

 

How to Stay Dry When Colostrum Flows Early

At Mammae, we celebrate every stage of your motherhood journey, including the early arrival of colostrum. Our award-winning Bosom Wearables Reusable Contoured Breast Pads, featuring our innovative contoured shape, is designed to support you through this beautiful, natural process with comfort and confidence.

Our thoughtfully crafted breast pads offer:

• Superior absorption of colostrum and breast milk

• Invisible protection against leaks

• A seamless, natural silhouette under any outfit

• All-day contoured comfort with ultra-soft, breathable GOTS Organic material

 

 

The Benefits of Colostrum for the Mother

But wait, there's more!

Colostrum isn't just a miraculous substance for your newborn—it offers significant benefits for you as a new mother too! Those early breastfeeding sessions stimulate the release of oxytocin, which helps your uterus contract and speeds up your postpartum recovery. Moreover, these intimate moments lay the foundation for a strong emotional bond between you and your baby.

As you navigate those 3 AM feedings (and yes, there will be many), remember in those hazy moments, that you're not just feeding your baby—you're offering an irreplaceable gift of health and immunity. Every drop of colostrum is a powerful dose of protection and nutrition.

It's important to understand that colostrum production varies from mother to mother. Whether you're able to express small amounts or none at all before birth, trust that your body is preparing exactly what your baby needs. This natural process is a testament to the incredible capabilities of the female body.

As you prepare for this transformative phase of motherhood, consider incorporating self-care practices that support your body's natural processes. Mammae's Lymphatic Breast Massage Oil can be a valuable addition to your pre-birth routine, helping to nourish and prepare your breasts for colostrum production, harvesting and breastfeeding. 

This gentle self-massage ritual not only supports your physical preparation but also provides a moment of mindful connection with your ever changing body. By understanding the importance of colostrum and preparing your body for its production, you're already giving your baby the best possible start in life. 

This journey is uniquely yours, and you're doing a wonderful job preparing for it, mama! 

Medical Reviewer

Kerrie Adams, Registered Midwife and IBCLC

Contributions

Clinical Naturopath BHSc - Adelaide Poschelk   

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