Antenatal Colostrum Harvesting

You’ve probably heard the phrase “antenatal colostrum harvesting” floating around, but might be wondering what it really means. Is it something you need to do? What are the benefits? When should you start, how often should you do it, and how do you store the colostrum once it’s collected? Let’s explore the answers to all these questions together.

Benefits for you and your baby

In the first 2–3 days after birth, your baby needs colostrum – this thick, golden, nutrient-packed milk is often referred to as ‘liquid gold’. Their tiny tummies (roughly the size of a marble or a Malteser) are full after just 5ml of colostrum, which is enough for a complete feed because it’s rich in calories and immune-boosting properties.

Sometimes, colostrum doesn’t flow easily at first. Antenatal colostrum harvesting gently encourages your breasts to begin producing milk before your baby arrives. Think of it like giving the system a little warm-up, helping milk to flow more freely when breastfeeding begins.

This can make a big difference in the early days. Your baby may be able to latch and feed more easily, and you might find it more comfortable as they won’t need to suck quite so hard. If breastfeeding is delayed or your baby struggles to latch, you’ll already have a supply of colostrum ready to go. You can also use it at the end of a feed to help your baby feel more content and settle back to sleep. Your midwife can guide you on how and when to offer it.

When do I start?

You can start colostrum harvesting from 37 weeks of pregnancy – but always check with your midwife or doctor first. It’s not suitable in all pregnancies, especially where there are risk factors, so get the go-ahead before you begin.

How often should I do it?

Try expressing three times a day for ten minutes each session. Spread these sessions across the day – morning, lunchtime and evening, at whatever times work best for you. The goal is to create small surges of oxytocin (the love hormone) that encourage colostrum production. It might be tempting to do longer sessions, but overdoing it can leave you feeling burnt out. Think long game, little and often.

At first, you might not see anything. That’s totally normal. Try to relax your shoulders, breathe deeply, and stay calm. After a minute or so, you may see a few tiny drops. Then the flow might pause – that’s your cue to switch breasts, then swap back again. Alternate between sides for about ten minutes total.

How much colostrum should I collect?

Some people collect quite a lot early on, others just a drop or two – both are completely normal. It’s not about volume, it’s about stimulation. If you’re not seeing anything at all, ask your midwife to review your technique and give you some support. Every drop counts, so just collect what you can.

How do I store the colostrum?

After each session, pop the syringe into the fridge. You can keep topping up the same syringe for up to 24 hours. After that, even if it’s not full, place it in a zip-lock bag or small container and move it to the freezer. Start a new syringe for the next 24-hour cycle.

If you manage to fill a syringe in one session – brilliant! Just freeze it straight away and start another. When it’s time to use your colostrum, take a syringe out of the freezer and warm it gently in your hand. Once defrosted, it can be stored in the fridge and should be used within 24 hours.

When will I use the harvested colostrum?

Ideally, by the time your baby arrives, you’ll have a few syringes tucked away in the freezer. If breastfeeding gets off to a bumpy start, these can be a lifesaver. I usually suggest leaving them at home when you go into hospital. If needed, a partner or visitor can bring them in later. Often you won’t need them, but they’re wonderful to have just in case.

They’re especially helpful in the early days if your baby is unsettled after a feed. A little top-up of colostrum (what I like to call “pudding”) can help settle them into a deeper sleep, and hopefully buy you an extra half hour of rest too!

Summary

Antenatal colostrum harvesting helps increase your milk supply and gives you a handy reserve of colostrum in case feeding is tricky in those first few days. It’s a lovely way to prepare, both physically and mentally, for breastfeeding. Check in with your midwife to learn the technique or follow the guide below.

How to Hand Express

• Wash your hands.
• Gently massage the breast.
• Make a ‘C’ shape with your thumb and fingers.
• Place your thumb about 5cm above the nipple and your index finger 5cm below (imagine your breast as a clock with your thumb at 12 and your finger at 6).
• Push back towards your ribcage and then gently compress the breast – not the nipple – holding the squeeze for around 5 seconds.
• Try not to slide your fingers forward as this can cause friction or irritation. Keep your hands in place and maintain gentle pressure.
• Relax and repeat. It may take a few squeezes before any colostrum appears.
• Alternate between breasts for around 10 minutes in total.
• Collect colostrum in a syringe (ask your midwife for one).
• Hand express three times per day, spaced out across the day.

Ask your midwife for guidance if you’re struggling, you don’t have to figure it all out on your own.

Final thoughts

Antenatal colostrum harvesting is one of those small, simple actions that can make a real difference to your feeding journey.

You don’t need to do it perfectly. Just give it a go, collect what you can, and trust that every drop matters. If you’re feeling unsure, speak to your midwife, they’ll be more than happy to support you.

You’re doing brilliantly.