Antenatal

Question 1

Benefits of colostrum harvesting

Answer 1

Quicker establishment of full lactation
Increased confidence in hand expressing
Reduces stress about milk supply
Less stress when there isn’t a hungry baby

Question 2

When can you start colostrum harvesting?

Answer 2

36 weeks

Frimley Health

Question 3

Who is colostrum harvesting recommended for?

Answer 3

All women but especially:
Gestational diabetes 
Twins 
Planned C-section
Cleft lip or palate
Frimley Health

Question 4

How to hand express colostrum?

Answer 4

 Wash your hands and have sterile syringe to hand
 Allow enough time and be comfortable – oxytocin
 Have 1 or 2 syringes from your pack to hand
 Cup your breast and feel back approx. 2-3 cm from the base of the nipple – there will be a change in the texture
 Avoid sliding your fingers over the skin
 Using your thumb and the rest of your fingers in a C shape, squeeze gently in this area – it shouldn’t hurt
 Release the pressure and repeat several times building up a rhythm
 At first only drops will appear but keep building up your supply
 When the flow slows move your fingers around to try a different section of your breast and repeat
 When the flow stops or slows, change to the other breast
Frimley Health

Question 5

Once colostrum is defrosted

Answer 5

12 hours

Question 6

Why is colostrum harvesting beneficial for IOL?

Answer 6

Releases oxytocin which can lead to uterine contractions

Wszolek (2015)

Question 7

Why is colostrum harvesting beneficial for insulin dependant mothers?

Answer 7

Can be given as a top up for hypoglycaemia which can affect the ability to suckle
Wszolek (2015)

Question 8

What to discuss in the antenatal period?

Answer 8

Colostrum vs mature milk 
Supply and demand 
Higher levels of prolactin at night 
The importance of regular feeds 
Clue and cues of a hungry baby 
Hand expressing

Question 9

Colostrum vs mature milk

Answer 9

o Colostrum is only Produced in small quantities but meets the exact nutritional needs of the baby. It also acts as a vaccine for the baby.
Higher protein and mineral content than ‘full milk’ content meaning less is needed to fill up baby. Lower carbs and fats