Can an expectant mother produce milk?
Yes, an expectant mother can produce and express milk (specifically colostrum) early, typically starting around 16–22 weeks of pregnancy.
Many women choose to hand-express and freeze this nutrient-rich, early milk from 36-37 weeks onwards to have a supply ready for their newborn, especially if they have diabetes or a planned cesarean.
Key details regarding early milk production:
What is it? It is colostrum, a thick, often yellowish, highly nutritious first milk full of antibodies.
When can I collect? While your body starts making it early, it is generally recommended to start hand expressing from 36-37 weeks of pregnancy.
Why express? It is useful for managing baby's low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), supporting babies with specific feeding needs, or building confidence with breastfeeding.
Safety warning: Always consult a midwife or doctor before starting, as nipple stimulation can trigger early labor in high-risk pregnancies.
How to do it? Hand expression is generally recommended over using a purpose made pump.
It is important to note that if you do not leak or cannot express milk before birth, this does not mean you will not have enough milk for your baby once they are born
Many women choose to hand-express and freeze this nutrient-rich, early milk from 36-37 weeks onwards to have a supply ready for their newborn, especially if they have diabetes or a planned cesarean.
Key details regarding early milk production:
What is it? It is colostrum, a thick, often yellowish, highly nutritious first milk full of antibodies.
When can I collect? While your body starts making it early, it is generally recommended to start hand expressing from 36-37 weeks of pregnancy.
Why express? It is useful for managing baby's low blood sugar (hypoglycemia), supporting babies with specific feeding needs, or building confidence with breastfeeding.
Safety warning: Always consult a midwife or doctor before starting, as nipple stimulation can trigger early labor in high-risk pregnancies.
How to do it? Hand expression is generally recommended over using a purpose made pump.
It is important to note that if you do not leak or cannot express milk before birth, this does not mean you will not have enough milk for your baby once they are born
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