Antenatal expressing | Preparation for breastfeeding during pregnancy, with midwife Amber

Antenatal Preparation for Breastfeeding

Preparing for breastfeeding during pregnancy may be really helpful in boosting your confidence once your baby arrives.

One important aspect of this preparation is antenatal expressing, a technique that involves hand expressing colostrum from your breasts in the weeks leading up to your due date. In this podcast episode, we will explore various facets of antenatal expressing, providing you with the information you need to decide if this practice is right for you.

Antenatal Hand Expression of Colostrum

Antenatal expressing is the process of manually stimulating your breasts to collect colostrum, the first form of milk your body produces during pregnancy. Colostrum is often referred to as “liquid gold” due to its rich content of antibodies and nutrients essential for your newborn’s health. From around 16 to 20 weeks of pregnancy, your body starts producing colostrum, which you can begin expressing from 37 weeks onwards, with your healthcare provider’s approval. This practice can help you become familiar with the technique of hand expression, which might be necessary in the early days after birth if your baby has trouble latching.

Antenatal Colostrum Expressing Kit

To begin, you will need a simple kit that typically includes syringes, caps, and labels. Many hospitals provide these kits, but you can also prepare your own. When you express colostrum, it can be collected in a syringe, labeled with your name and the date, and stored in the fridge for 48 to 72 hours or in the freezer for up to three months. Having a kit ready can make the process more straightforward and ensure that you can store the colostrum safely for use after your baby is born.

Antenatal Breastfeeding Education for Increasing Breastfeeding Duration

Education about breastfeeding during pregnancy is crucial. Attending breastfeeding classes or consulting with a lactation consultant can provide you with valuable knowledge and skills. Understanding how breastfeeding works, what to expect, and how to handle common challenges can significantly improve your breastfeeding journey. Being well-informed helps you feel more confident and prepared, which can positively impact the duration and success of breastfeeding.

When to Start Antenatal Expressing

You can start antenatal expressing from 37 weeks of pregnancy, provided you have the green light from your healthcare provider. Some providers may allow you to start as early as 36 weeks, but this should be discussed on an individual basis. Starting too early can potentially trigger premature labor, so it’s essential to follow your provider’s guidance.

When Not to Do Antenatal Expressing

There are certain conditions under which antenatal expressing might not be recommended. Women with a shortened cervix, a cervical or abdominal stitch, placenta previa, or those who are not planning a vaginal birth should avoid this practice unless specifically advised otherwise by their healthcare provider. Always have an individual discussion with your provider to determine if antenatal expressing is safe for you.

Will Antenatal Expressing Help with Breastfeeding?

It can be beneficial in several ways. Practicing hand expression can help increase your confidence and ability to manage breastfeeding challenges. Some women find that regular expressing can help them produce more colostrum, though this varies widely. Learning this skill before birth can also be empowering, as you may need to hand express to provide colostrum for your baby if there are initial latching issues or if you are separated for medical reasons.

What Are the Benefits of Antenatal Expressing?

The benefits include:

• Preparation: Learning to hand express can make you more adept at managing breastfeeding challenges post-birth.
• Confidence: Knowing you have stored colostrum can give you peace of mind.
• Supply: Some women may see an increase in colostrum production with regular expressing.
• Emergency Use: Stored colostrum can be used if the baby has trouble latching or if mother and baby are separated after birth.
• Knowledge and Skills: Gaining these before birth can help you feel more in control and prepared.

By incorporating antenatal expressing into your pregnancy preparation, you can take proactive steps to support your breastfeeding journey. Always consult with your healthcare provider to tailor this practice to your individual needs and circumstances.

** This podcast has general information only. Always seek the guidance of your doctor or other qualified health professional with any questions or concerns you may have regarding your health or medical condition. 

Links

Preparing for birth Pelvic health checklist
Free 7 Day Trial Pregnancy Workouts
Free 7 Day Trial Postnatal Workouts
FitNest Mama Website
Instagram @fitnestmama

Connect with Amber Gibson:
Instagram @bodybirthandbaby
www.bodybirthandbaby.com.au