Your body begins getting ready to feed your baby long before birth. If you’re planning to breastfeed, your baby’s first food will be a special substance called colostrum. Often called “liquid gold,” colostrum is packed with everything your baby needs in the first few days.
At Midwife360, we love helping parents understand how amazing their bodies are. Learning about colostrum, what it is, when it shows up, and why it is so helpful can give you confidence as you start your breastfeeding journey.
What Exactly is Colostrum?
Colostrum is the first milk your body makes after giving birth. It is different from the breast milk that comes later. Colostrum is thicker, stickier, and often a deep yellow or golden color. This color comes from beta-carotene, which is also found in carrots and sweet potatoes.
Although colostrum comes in small amounts, just a few teaspoons at a time, it is rich in nutrients. It is perfectly designed for your baby’s tiny stomach, which is only about the size of a marble when they are born.
Colostrum has less fat and sugar than mature milk, but it has more protein, vitamins, and protective ingredients. It is exactly what your baby needs right after birth.
When Does It Start?
Your body usually starts making colostrum during pregnancy, between 16 and 22 weeks. You might not see or feel it, but it is already there. Some people notice a little leaking in the last months of pregnancy. That is totally normal.
After birth, your body continues to produce colostrum for about two to five days. Then it slowly starts to shift into mature milk, which has a different look and taste. This change happens gradually, and your baby will still be getting all the nutrients they need during the transition.
Why Is Colostrum So Important?
Colostrum is often called liquid gold because it is full of antibodies and immune-boosting ingredients. Your baby is born with a very new immune system, and colostrum helps protect them right away.
One of the most important antibodies in colostrum is called IgA. It coats your baby’s intestines, protecting them from harmful germs and viruses. Colostrum also has white blood cells that fight infections and prebiotics that help good bacteria grow in your baby’s belly.
Besides immune support, colostrum helps your baby pass their first poop, called meconium. This helps reduce the risk of jaundice, which can happen if bilirubin builds up in your baby’s body. It also supports healthy digestion and helps your baby’s intestines mature and stay strong.
What’s in Colostrum?
Here is what makes colostrum so special:
- High protein to support growth and repair
- Vitamin A for skin, eyes, and immunity
- Zinc and copper to help development
- Lower fat and sugar so it is easy to digest
- Antibodies and white blood cells for protection
- Prebiotics to build a healthy gut
Colostrum is perfectly made for newborns. It is gentle, powerful, and full of everything your baby needs to get a strong start.
Can You Collect Colostrum Before Birth?
Some parents choose to collect and store colostrum in the last few weeks of pregnancy. This is called antenatal colostrum harvesting. It can be helpful if your baby might need extra support after birth, like if you have diabetes or expect feeding challenges.
If you’re interested, talk to your midwife. You can usually start around 37 weeks. The best way to collect it is by hand expressing. Since colostrum is thick, it does not always flow well with a breast pump. You can collect it in a clean syringe or small container and freeze it.
Make sure to label and store it properly, and bring it with you to your birth if needed. You can keep it in the fridge for 4 days or freeze it for up to 6 months.
What Type of Milk Comes in Next?
Between days two and five after birth, your body will begin making transitional milk. This milk is a mix of colostrum and mature milk. You might notice your breasts feel fuller and your milk looks more white or bluish.
By about four to six weeks, your mature milk is fully in. It has more fat and sugar to meet your growing baby’s needs. Even though it is different from colostrum, mature milk still contains antibodies and nutrients to keep your baby healthy.
How to Support Colostrum Production
Colostrum comes from your hormones, so your body will usually make it without much effort. But you can help your baby get the most benefit by:
- Breastfeeding early. Try to nurse within the first hour after birth if possible
- Skin-to-skin contact. Holding your baby close helps with bonding and breastfeeding
- Feeding often. Newborns need to eat at least 8 to 12 times in 24 hours
- Staying hydrated and nourished. Take care of yourself so your body can do its job
These simple steps support milk production and help build a strong feeding relationship.
Common Questions
How do I know my baby is getting enough colostrum?
Your baby’s tummy is tiny, so small feedings are perfect. You should see at least 1 or 2 wet diapers on the first day and more as days go on. If you’re ever unsure, your midwife can help
What if my colostrum looks different?
It can be clear, yellow, or even orange. It might be thick or thin. All of this is normal.
Should I collect colostrum during pregnancy?
It depends. Some parents choose to do this, especially if their baby may need extra support. Always check with your provider before starting.
Your Body Knows What to Do
Colostrum is your baby’s first food and medicine. It is made perfectly by your body, timed just right, and full of everything your newborn needs. Whether you breastfeed for a few days or for years, it sets the stage for your baby’s lifelong health.
At Midwife360, we are here to support you every step of the way, from pregnancy to birth and beyond. We love helping families feel confident, informed, and cared for.
If you are planning a home birth or want to learn more about them, we would love to help. Contact Midwife360 today to learn more about our home birth options and how we can support your journey into parenthood.
