What is colostrum harvesting, why and when is it advised?

Colostrum harvesting. You may have heard this term mentioned by other mums, or at an antenatal class. If you'd like to know why and when to do it, keep reading for all you need to know.

Colostrum, often referred to as “liquid gold”, is the first breast milk your body produces during pregnancy and just after birth. It's rich in antibodies and nutrients, offering a powerful start for your baby’s immune system. Colostrum is often called 'bay's first vaccination' by lactation consultants and breastfeeding supporters. Colostrum harvesting involves collecting this nutrient-dense substance before your baby is born, so it’s ready to use immediately after delivery.

Why consider colostrum harvesting?

1. Nutritional and immune benefits: Colostrum is packed with proteins, antibodies, and essential nutrients that are have huge benefits for newborns. It helps in:

• Boosting the baby’s immune system.
• Aiding in the development of a healthy gut.
• Providing a natural laxative effect to help clear the baby's digestive system of meconium, the first black, tar like stool baby passes.

2. For babies with specific needs: Harvesting colostrum can be particularly beneficial for:

• Babies expected to be born premature.
• Babies diagnosed with health conditions such as cleft palate.
• Babies at risk of hypoglycaemia, such as those born to diabetic mothers.

3. Having breast milk for baby in unexpected situations such as:

• There are un-anticipated complications during delivery.
• An emergency caesarean section and you might need some time to initiate breastfeeding.

Indications and contraindications for colostrum harvesting

Indications:

• You’re experiencing a high-risk pregnancy.
• You have conditions such as diabetes or are expecting a preterm baby.
• You plan to return to work soon after birth and want to establish a milk supply.

Contraindications:

• If you have a history of preterm labour.
• Experiencing significant bleeding or a condition like placenta previa.
• You’re advised against nipple stimulation due to risk of premature labour.

Always consult with your obstetrician to ensure colostrum harvesting is safe for you and your baby before starting the process.

How to harvest colostrum

1. Preparation:

• Start around 36-37 weeks of pregnancy, with your obstetrician's approval. This guidance is used in many hospitals worldwide.
• Ensure you have the necessary equipment, such as colostrum syringes.
• Wash your hands thoroughly before expressing.
• Ensure that you are comfortable and relaxed- many women prefer to try expressing in the bath.

2. Expression technique:

• Gently massage your breasts in a circular motion.
• Place your thumb and fingers around the areola and gently compress.
• You may initially collect no colostrum or very small amounts. Don't panic- this is not indicative of how much breast milk you will produce after baby is born.
• Collect the colostrum in a sterile syringe or container.

3. Labelling and storing:

• Label the container with your name, date, and time of expression.
• Store the collected colostrum in the back of the fridge at 4°C or in the freezer at -18°C or lower.

How to store and use colostrum

Storage:

• In the fridge: up to 48 hours.
• In the freezer: up to 6 months.

Defrosting:

• Defrost in the fridge overnight or hold the container under warm running water.
• Once thawed, use it within 24 hours and do not refreeze.

Using colostrum:

• Colostrum can be fed to your baby using a clean spoon or syringe.
• Ensure it’s gently warmed to body temperature before feeding.
• Babies have very small stomachs and only require a very small amount of colostrum initially. Don't worry about your colostrum being enough to feed baby as it is extremely rich in nutrients and provides all that your baby needs.

Benefits of colostrum to your baby

1. Immune system boost: Colostrum is rich in white blood cells and antibodies, particularly IgA, which protect against infections.

2. Nutritional superfood :It contains high levels of proteins, vitamins A and E, and minerals, all necessary for your baby’s early development.

3. Gentle laxative effect: It helps your baby pass their first stools (meconium), reducing the risk of jaundice.

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Colostrum harvesting is an excellent way to prepare for your baby’s arrival, ensuring they receive the best start in life. It’s a simple process that can offer significant benefits, particularly for babies with special health considerations. Always consult with your healthcare provider to ensure that colostrum harvesting is safe for your  pregnancy and baby.

Want to know more about colostrum harvesting or need support with breastfeeding? Contact Lullabies today to schedule a consultation with our expert lactation consultants. We’re here to support you every step of the way!

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