Colostrum: to collect or not collect

If you’re on the pregnant side of social media (and you probably are), you’ve also probably seen the troves of pregnant women showing off milk syringes like they’re mint-condition Beanie Babies. Colostrum collecting (hand-expressing milk before delivery) can be helpful, but it has also turned into a bit of a trend – with a bit of added pressure.

Colostrum is the first milk your body makes – it’s thick, golden, and packed with antibodies. Your body starts producing it halfway through pregnancy, which means some women can express small drops in the final weeks before birth. And if you don’t produce a single drop, that is completely normal, too.

Collecting can be especially useful for specific situations – like moms with gestational diabetes, or babies with anticipated NICU stays or known feeding issues. In those cases, having a small stash ready on Day 1 makes a real difference. But collecting early does not guarantee an easier breastfeeding journey or a stronger milk supply.

If you're thinking about trying it, choose what works best for you and your mental health. Most importantly, check in with your OB or midwife first so they can guide you on safe timing and technique.

• Typically any kind of expression is only recommended in the last part of your third trimester with doctor approval.
• If you collect colostrum, label the date and time it was collected and put it in the freezer unless you know you will use it in the next 4 days. 
• Colostrum follows the same guidelines as breastmilk in that it stays fresh in a regular home freezer for 6 months.

For some moms, collecting colostrum gives them peace of mind; for others, it gives them a panic attack. Doing what’s best for you is what’s best for baby.