Help! Colostrum harvesting NOT working!

July 20, 2023 Stacey Stewart

Are you super frustrated with colostrum collection? Squeezing away with minimal success?

If you’re feeling like a treasure hunter chasing elusive liquid gold, we’ve got you! Below are 6 helpful tips and tricks to help you kickstart your colostrum harvesting when you’re struggling.

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Don’t be alarmed if the colostrum seems stubborn and you’re not able to collect loads of colostrum before baby as your body only produces it in super small quantities.

The good news? This sassy liquid gold has zero say in your breastfeeding destiny. So, keep your chin up, Mama – your milk supply future is bright regardless! 🌟

6 Tips for colostrum harvesting when it’s not working

First things first, are you sure your colostrum collection game is on point? Check out this video – it's the boss when it comes to teaching you the hand-expressing colostrum art! 🎥💪

It is important to feel that you are comfortable, calm and relaxed before you begin, as this will help you hand express colostrum more easily. Get into the colostrum collection groove by setting the stage! Have the lights low, play your favorite music, or burn your fav candle.

Ditch the stage fright and get steamy! Try hand expressing in a warm bath or shower.

Use these before you start. They help the colostrum flow more easily.

Try a little massage magic on the breasts, the nipples, and under your arms before you begin. This helps to trigger the hormones needed for the colostrum to come out.

Move your fingers slightly towards the nipple or further away, finding the sweet spot that works best for you.
It can often take a few minutes before you notice anything. Don’t expect great amounts of colostrum unless you’re really lucky! Even a drop of liquid gold is worth its weight in awesomeness! 🌟💧✨

You can always try again later the same day or leave it until another day when you feel ready to try again.

Just a friendly reminder – colostrum harvesting? Totally optional! Your breastfeeding success isn't tied to it, so keep that chin up and let those worries go, go, go! You're doing amazing! 💁‍♀️💕😊

Inspo from other moms when their colostrum harvesting did’t work:

“I've breastfed my children (have 5) and have never been able to harvest any colostrum and I've tried each time. It's made no difference to my milk once they’re born.”

“The midwife tried with me when I was in hospital… nothing came out. My son breastfed for 2 years after that. Don’t worry.”

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