Antenatal expressing is the collection of colostrum (first milk) during pregnancy. It takes several days after birth until your breastmilk comes in, but for many, colostrum can come in during their third trimester. It’s highly concentrated, full of protein and nutrient-dense – so a little goes a long way in your baby’s tiny tummy. It’s full of good fats, easy to digest, and brimming with components that start their development in the best possible way.
Antenatal expressing is beneficial for new mums to become familiar with their anatomy before breastfeeding is established. This is only safe if you are low risk and have had the green light from your midwife, OB-GYN or doctor and should never be performed if you are at risk of premature labour. Please make sure you consult with your health care provider before doing this.
To use, gently squeeze the breast tissue around the areola with your hands and collect drops of milk using a cup, and then use the syringe found in the Antenatal Colostrum Expressing Kit to collect the golden drops. Feed to your baby by placing it in their mouth and plunging the syringe.
The colostrum expressing kit is designed to help you stockpile in preparation for your feeding journey and will rescue you from the unexpected. For example, should your baby need extra fluid or nutrition in those early days or you hit a bump in your journey. Not everyone is offered free syringes from their healthcare provider, so this kit is for those who aren't. It also comes with take-home instructions, labels for dating, different size syringes, and information on safely storing and defrosting your milk.
