How do you store colostrum at home?

Colostrum is the first breastmilk that a mother produces after giving birth. It is rich in nutrients and antibodies that provide essential protection for the newborn. Proper storage of colostrum is important to preserve its beneficial properties. This article provides tips on how to collect, store and thaw colostrum safely at home.

Table of Contents

What is colostrum?

Colostrum is thick and yellowish in color. It is produced by the breasts during pregnancy and the first few days after delivery. Colostrum contains high concentrations of immunoglobulins, protein, vitamins and minerals. These components provide vital immune support and nutrition for the newborn.

Some key facts about colostrum:

It contains 3 times more protein and 11 times more immune factors than mature breastmilk.
Colostrum coats the gastrointestinal tract of the newborn to prevent pathogens from entering.
It acts as a laxative to help pass the infant’s first stools.

Colostrum helps establish healthy gut bacteria in the infant.
It facilitates the passage of bilirubin out of the infant’s body, preventing jaundice.

Colostrum is produced in small quantities. Typically, mothers produce around 2 to 100ml in the first 24 hours after giving birth. It transitions to mature breastmilk over the next few days.

Why store colostrum?

There are several reasons a mother may want to store colostrum:

Feeding difficulties: Some babies have trouble latching or feeding initially. Stored colostrum can be fed by bottle or spoon until breastfeeding is established.
Low supply: Mothers may not produce enough colostrum due to medical conditions or delayed milk production. Having some stored provides a reserve.

Nursing interruption: Medical procedures after birth may require separation of mother and infant. Stored colostrum allows feeding during this time.
Donation: Some mothers collect extra colostrum to donate to milk banks for premature or seriously ill infants.

How to collect and store colostrum

Colostrum can be collected either through hand expression or breast pumping. Here are some tips for collecting and storing colostrum:

Collect colostrum after feeding or pumping the first breast. Switch breasts and repeat process.
Massage the breast gently before expression to stimulate letdown.
Use a sterile collection container or breastmilk storage bag.

Label the container with date and time of collection.
Refrigerate immediately after collection. Fresh colostrum can be stored for up to 4 days.
For longer storage, freeze colostrum in small 1-2 oz portions.

Lay flat in the freezer to prevent leakage.
Frozen colostrum keeps for 6-12 months in a deep freezer.
Thaw frozen colostrum gradually in the refrigerator or under warm running water.

Do not re-freeze thawed colostrum.

Avoid storing colostrum in regular plastic bags or bottles not designed for breastmilk. Only use containers labeled BPA-free. Glass bottles can also be used if properly sterilized.

How much colostrum should you store?

There are no set rules on how much colostrum to store before birth. Here are some general guidelines:

1-2 oz (30-60ml) for uncomplicated vaginal delivery.
2-4 oz (60-120ml) for planned C-section.
4-6 oz (120-180ml) for high-risk situations such as preterm birth, infant medical conditions, delayed milk production etc.

Talk to your lactation consultant to determine the ideal amount of colostrum to have stored based on your specific circumstances.

When to begin collecting colostrum

Most experts recommend beginning colostrum collection around 36-37 weeks of pregnancy. However, the optimal timing depends on the individual:

Preterm birth risk: Begin as early as 32-34 weeks if at high risk of premature delivery.

First pregnancy: Primiparous mothers may want to start at 35 weeks since colostrum production is lower.
Second or third pregnancy: Multiparous mothers can start at 36-37 weeks.
History of delayed milk: Women with previous difficulty producing milk should start 1-2 weeks earlier.

Medical conditions: Begin early if you have a condition like gestational diabetes or breast hypoplasia.

Discuss expected delivery date and individual risk factors with your healthcare provider to decide when to initiate collecting colostrum.

How to collect colostrum before birth

Antenatal colostrum collection is similar to collecting after delivery. Here are some tips for easy expression and storage:

Wash hands thoroughly before collecting colostrum.
Massage breasts and apply warm compresses to stimulate letdown.
Express colostrum by hand or use a manual or electric breast pump.

Pump for 5 minutes from each breast. Expect drops or up to 1 teaspoon (5ml) at a time.
Collect colostrum in sterile containers. Label with date and time.
Refrigerate fresh colostrum immediately. Freeze any excess supply.

Collect after feedings or pumps when hormone levels are higher.
Aim for 2-3 collection sessions per week. Increase frequency closer to delivery.

Let your healthcare provider know if you notice any nipple discharge or labor contractions during collection. Stop collecting if it causes discomfort or contractions.

Tips for antenatal colostrum collection

Here are some additional tips to make collecting colostrum before birth easier:

Use a hospital grade double electric pump for maximum yield.
Try collecting early morning and late evening when prolactin levels peak.

Gently rotate knuckles or thumbs over nipples to extract colostrum.
Some mothers respond to breast massage, pumping, or seeing their baby on ultrasound.
Stay hydrated and relax during collection to optimize letdown.

Antenatal pumping can be tiring. Keep sessions brief.
If needed, takefenugreek or blessed thistle supplements to increase supply.

Always consult a doctor before taking any herbal supplements while pregnant. Stop collecting and contact your healthcare provider if you have any concerns.

How to use stored colostrum after birth

Stored colostrum can be used to supplement breastfeeding or provide complete nutrition if mother’s milk is delayed. Here are some tips for using collected colostrum:

Thaw just enough for one feeding session to avoid waste.
Thaw frozen colostrum by placing container under warm running water or in the refrigerator overnight.

Swirl gently after thawing. Do not shake or microwave.
Use thawed colostrum within 24 hours. Discard any leftovers.
Feed 2-10ml per feeding based on baby’s intake. Offer less than 1 teaspoon (5ml) initially.

Feed by bottle, syringe, cup or spoon if baby has not latched yet.
If supplementing breastfeeds, nurse first then offer expressed colostrum.
Mix fresh colostrum with thawed colostrum to provide optimal nutrition.

Track volumes fed and times to help assess adequacy. Offer more frequent small feeds if baby remains hungry. Get help from a lactation consultant if needed.

How to clean colostrum collection supplies

Proper cleaning and sterilization of pumps, bottles and collection containers is vital when handling colostrum to reduce infection risks for mother and baby. Here are some tips:

Clean hands before handling pump and bottles.

Rinse equipment in cold water after use to remove residue.
Wash with hot soapy water. Use a bottle brush to clean bottles.
Sterilize using a steam sterilizer, boiling water or steam bags.

Air dry all pieces fully before reassembling.
Store cleaned pump parts and bottles in a clean sealed container or bag.
Avoid rinsing or washing collection containers after colostrum is stored.

Cleaning is especially important if collecting colostrum before birth due to sterility concerns. Discuss protocols with your healthcare provider.

Storage guidelines

Correct storage is key to preserving colostrum safety and nutrient quality. Follow these guidelines:

Storage Container	Room Temperature	Refrigerator	Freezer
Freshly expressed into sterile container	Up to 4 hours	Up to 4 days	6-12 months
Thawed after freezing	Up to 2 hours	Up to 1 day	Do not refreeze

Store colostrum in the back of the refrigerator or freezer where temperature is most constant. Avoid storing in refrigerator door.

Clearly label each container with date and time. Use oldest colostrum first. Discard any that smells sour or is past storage guidelines.

What to avoid when collecting colostrum

To maximize safety, avoid:

Using ordinary plastic bags, bottles or containers to store colostrum.

Adding fresh colostrum to already frozen milk.
Sharing pumping equipment with other nursing mothers.
Touching the inside of collection containers or lids.

Storing colostrum near strong smelling foods in the refrigerator.

Also, do not save any colostrum that is exposed to contamination from:

Cracked or damaged storage containers.

Spilled colostrum.
Infection or illness (discard colostrum produced 24-48 hours prior).
Blood or pus contamination.

Use of certain medications (check with your doctor).

Signs of spoiled colostrum

Look out for these signs of spoiled colostrum:

Change in color or consistency – should be thick and creamy yellow.

Sour, rancid or soapy smell.
Visible curdling or separation.
Mold present around lid or container rim.

Frozen colostrum with ice crystals or freezer burn.

If in doubt, it is best to err on the side of caution and discard colostrum that seems abnormal. Remember, frozen colostrum keeps for up to 6-12 months if stored properly.

How to transport stored colostrum

Transporting expressed colostrum to the hospital requires special care. Follow these tips:

Place frozen colostrum containers in an insulated cooler bag.
Surround with ice packs to keep frozen during transport.
Bring stored refrigerated colostrum too.

Inform hospital staff so colostrum can go into freezer upon arrival.
Do not refreeze thawed colostrum if ice packs thaw milk in transit.
Take fresh colostrum collected near time of admission.

Make sure all containers are clearly labelled with your name, date and time expressed. Never keep colostrum at room temperature longer than guidelines allow.

Potential problems storing colostrum

While generally safe, colostrum collection and storage does carry some potential risks such as:

Nipple soreness – From pumping too aggressively or frequently.

Breast engorgement – Overstimulation can cause swollen, painful breasts.
Preterm labor – Oxytocin release during pumping may trigger contractions.
Milk supply issues – Excess pumping can negatively affect supply.

Container leaking – Improper storage allows bacterial contamination.
Infection – Unclean collection equipment or storage containers can infect milk.

Proper technique, cleaning, sterilization and storage reduces these risks. Talk to your healthcare provider about any concerns.

Alternative feeding options

While antenatal colostrum expression is recommended, some mothers prefer alternative feeding options:

Donor milk banks – Provide safe pasteurized donor milk.
Formula – Can be used until mother’s own milk supply is established.

Combination feeding – Rotate donor milk and formula with mother’s colostrum.

Discuss pros and cons of various options with your doctor to decide what is right for your situation.

Frequently asked questions

Is colostrum storage necessary?

Colostrum storage is recommended as a precautionary measure but not medically necessary for most mothers. It provides peace of mind by ensuring baby receives optimal early nutrition.

Can I store colostrum after delivery?

Yes, colostrum produced in the first few days after birth can also be collected and stored following the same guidelines.

How do I get more colostrum before birth?

Try hand expression or pumping more frequently. Stay hydrated, massage breasts during collection, and try collecting after a warm shower.

Does collecting colostrum induce labor?

It is generally safe but can cause contractions in some women. Stop collecting if it causes uterine cramping and let your doctor know.

Can I freeze colostrum in regular freezer bags?

No, only use breastmilk storage bags or sterile hard plastic or glass containers made for freezing human milk.

Is thawed colostrum as good as fresh?

Freezing does lower immunoglobulin content slightly but thawed colostrum still provides excellent nutrition and immune factors vital for newborns.

Conclusion

Antenatal colostrum harvesting and storage is a simple, low-risk way to ensure your newborn gets the optimal early nutrition they need. Have about 2-4 ounces stored before birth by starting collection around 35-37 weeks gestation. Follow proper hygienic collection, storage and transport guidelines to preserve integrity. Colostrum provides unmatched immune protection and nutrition during your baby’s vulnerable first days of life.