Pumping for Colostrum?

[JTA Mom]

I am wondering if it's a good idea to try to start pumping some colostrum for this new babe? I'm not worried about it inducing labor, since ds is still nursing at night, and I get no contractions at all from that.

With ds, it took me a long time to get my milk in (5 days) and we had a rough start with some supply issues. Granted, he was in NICU for a few days, and I could only pump, but I'm wondering if with ds nursing + a couple pumping sessions, if I will be able to produce more colostrum for this little one, and maybe circumvent any possible supply issues. And if, God forbid, this one needs some NICU time, I will have some ready milk to give him.

Good idea? Bad idea? Crazy, hormone induced idea?

Ami

[Erin77]

Ida May's guide to breastfeeding book specifically suggests trying to express and freeze colostrum ahead of the birth. I'd try it if you want to!

[JamieCatheryn]

It's likely to be much quicker and easier the second time around so not needed, but there's no harm in it assuming inducing labor isn't a factor. Remember though if there are no issues you'll want to avoid bottle feeding until several weeks in...the colostrum might be great for a boost if baby is ill at some point though.

[Tresa]

I pumped a bag or two of colostrum for each of my other babies...it made me feel secure to have it in my freezer breastmilk stash to give the kids if they ever got really sick and could only take fluids a teaspoon at a time or whatever. I never needed it but it was nice to have.

Pumping is uncomfortable for me...so I only did it when I was engorged or trying to stimulate more supply, I'd wait till after the birth, unless it doesn't bother you as much. Or unless you know you have a good supply and don't have anything better to do with your time. I suppose...better now than when you're taking care of an infant, yes?

[inkywinky]

Sure you can..

I asked the same ques in this forum http://www.mothering.com/discussions...=#post15738001

am 32 wks now and am collecting colostrum for the last two weeks continuously. I usually just use my hands to express the colostrum, but have tried using a pump for a few days now. The pump is able to draw out more. If I feel any tightening of utreus I usually stop there.