Collecting Colostrum in the Third Trimester

I can’t even lie, I don’t enjoy doing this mostly because it takes a while and seems like you’re not getting anything but it really is helpful when you’re in the hospital/post-partum.

And let me preface: I am not your medical professional and you should always consult yours before starting anything.

Colostrum is the initial milk you produce when you start breast feeding. It:

✨ Supports the immune system

✨ Fights infections

✨ Provides essential vitamins and minerals

✨ Prevents jaundice

✨ Aids in growth

You can express manually (hand expression) or with a pump. I started manually and then have been pumping my 39th week to help with contractions. make sure you’re using a nipple balm when pumping otherwise your nipples could get really sore, cracked or even bruised. Also make sure you are using the right Falange size on your pump.

You’re probably wondering why you might do this:

✨ colostrum contains antibodies that can help benefit baby and help to start colonizing healthy bacteria in the gut.

✨ it also is the perfect mix of micronutrients to help the babies pass their first stool.

✨if your baby has trouble latching or even with their blood sugar levels newly postpartum this will help to keep them on breast milk and not formula. Fed is best - but if your goal is to breast feed this can help tremendously!

✨if your baby is sick, this is the best medicine to assist their bodies in fighting nasty germs off.

✨and if your like me and want your baby to come naturally but ASAP, it can help to initiate contractions.

It is recommended this isn’t started until after 37 weeks due to the babies lungs still developing before hand. The oxytocin hormone released when expressing, stimulates the uterus. Opinions differ on whether expressing colostrum antenatally is likely to induce labour. Those who advocate it do not believe that expressing would constitute sufficient stimulation to start labour. Sex while pregnant and breastfeeding through pregnancy both release oxytocin and both are generally considered safe while pregnant. If you experience any cramping in your uterus however, you should stop expressing and discuss your choice with your healthcare provider.

Oxytocin is the bodies natural hormone response to help labor kick into gear. Pitocin is the synthetic version they give you to induce labor.

Here are a few products I like to use including the haaka collectors pictured above!!

https://amzn.to/3WQqxCk

- to click the link: screenshot and hold down the link in your photos and click open on Amazon

Hope this helps you and your fam! 🫶🏻

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