How to Collect Colostrum: A Step-by-Step Guide for Expectant Moms
If you’re nearing the end of your pregnancy, you may have heard other mothers or healthcare providers discuss collecting colostrum. It’s something that has become increasingly popular in recent years - and for (mostly) good reason. Colostrum - or your first milk - is often called “liquid gold” because of how packed it is with nutrients and immune-boosting properties for your newborn.
Learning how to collect colostrum can teach you how to hand express, increase your confidence in your milk, improve breastfeeding rates in women with diabetes, and give you a little bit of an “insurance policy” that you’ll have some on hand if your baby needs it in those first days.
In this guide, I’ll walk you through everything you need to know about colostrum - what it is, how to decide if you should collect it, how to do it, and what to expect.
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How to Collect Colostrum
Before we dive into the “how,” I want to talk about the “what.” Understanding exactly what colostrum is and why it’s so beneficial can help you decide whether to consider collecting it before birth. Once you understand its role in feeding your baby, I’ll share practical tips on how to hand express and safely collect it.
What Is Colostrum?
Colostrum is the very first milk your body produce - and it’s production begins during pregnancy. It’s thick, yellow or golden in color, and produced in small amounts. Colostrum is packed with concentrated immune factors, antibodies, and proteins that help protect and nourish your newborn in those first 24 hours and days of life.
Even though the amount of colostrum your body produces may seem small - often just a few drops at a time - those drops are incredibly powerful for your baby’s health. Despite what some believe, colostrum IS milk - and it’s usually all your newborn baby needs during those first few days.
Why Collect Colostrum
Collecting colostrum has become more popular in recent years. For some, it is done to learn to hand express and just have some extra on hand “just in case”. For others, it has a medical benefits and these collect colostrum during pregnancy as a way to prepare for special circumstances after birth. Here are some common reasons:
To Support Babies Who Need Extra Help
Some babies - especially those who are premature, are at risk for blood sugar regulation issues, or may struggle with latching - benefit from having colostrum ready to go. Collecting it ahead of time ensures you can provide it without stress.
To Ease the Transition to Breastfeeding
The first few days of feeding your baby can feel overwhelming. Having colostrum on hand allows you to focus on bonding and latching instead of worrying about whether your baby is getting enough. While I always recommend offering the breast first, sometimes offering a little bit of colostrum that you’ve collected prenatally can be helpful.
To Help with Certain Medical Conditions
If you have gestational diabetes, your baby may be at risk for low blood sugar after birth. Having colostrum stored provides care providers with a safe, natural option to help stabilize your baby without resorting to formula immediately.
To Build Confidence
For some moms, collecting colostrum is about peace of mind. Knowing you’ve already started your breastfeeding journey before your baby is even born can be empowering and reduce stress.
What to Collect Colostrum In
When you begin hand-expressing, you’ll need something safe and sterile to collect the milk in. Options include:
Syringes (1–5 mL sizes work best for drops of colostrum) - I recommend getting the ones with caps for easy storage
Small sterile cups - great if you’re expressing a slightly larger amount, though you probably won’t want to store them in here
Colostrum collection kits - these are slightly more expensive but they can make it easier to express, store, and feed
Breast milk storage containers - only if you’re producing more than a few milliliters
The Kindest Cup - I really like this for hand expressing into
For more on keeping it safe, check out my full post on how to store colostrum before birth.
How to Properly Collect Colostrum
The most effective way to collect colostrum is through hand expression, though some find a hand pump to be easier. Here’s how to do it step by step:
Wash Your Hands First
Because colostrum is collected in tiny amounts, cleanliness is essential. Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water before you start.
Find a Comfortable Spot
Relaxation matters. Sit comfortably, take a few deep breaths, and consider applying a warm compress to your breast for a few minutes to help with milk flow.
Use Hand Expression
Place your thumb and forefinger about an inch back from the nipple. Gently press back toward your chest wall, then compress and roll forward. Rotate around the breast to access different milk ducts. Drops of colostrum should start to appear, though it may take some time.
Collect Drops Carefully
If you’re using a syringe, you can draw the drops up directly. If you’re using a cup, let the colostrum drip in and then transfer it to a syringe. Even a few drops are worth saving - remember, the amount of colostrum is naturally small but mighty.
Label and Store Safely
Once collected, label each container with the date and time. Colostrum can be stored at room temperature for up to 4 hours, refrigerated, or frozen, depending on when you plan to use it.
When Can You Start Collecting Colostrum?
Most healthcare providers recommend waiting until around 36–37 weeks of pregnancy before you start collecting colostrum. This is considered safe for most pregnancies, but always check with your provider first, especially if you are at risk for preterm labor.
How Much Colostrum to Collect
Every mom and pregnancy is different, so there isn’t a set amount you “should” collect. And if it’s stressing you out - you don’t need to do it! Some people may only get a few milliliters in total, while others may collect more. Remember: colostrum is produced in small amounts, and that’s normal.
Even just a few milliliters can make a huge difference in feeding your baby, especially in those early hours after birth. Don’t stress about quantity—focus instead on proper collection and storage.
Collecting colostrum is a simple yet powerful way to prepare for your breastfeeding journey, whether you’re doing it for peace of mind, to support your baby in case of medical needs, or simply to feel ready. Every drop counts.
By learning how to collect colostrum and understanding its importance, you’re taking a step toward supporting your baby’s health and your own breastfeeding confidence.
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