I can't harvest colostrum?
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Hey hun! Are you hand expressing or using a pump? I really struggled at first with hand expressing and find my pump a lot easier x
38+2 also, have struggled. Got 1 drop out of each but not enough to syringe. Felt super down about it, but now I’m not going to stress myself out over something that has no reflection of your breastfeeding journey! A few of my friends have also only managed to get some a few days before birth. If you can get some, fab, if not, please don’t stress xx
I’ve tried every couple of days rather than every day and I find that works best for me. I don’t get loads but I find I get more when I try not to stress about needing some. Also the warmer you are, the easier it will be as it thins it.
I had never heard of colostrum harvesting before this app. I've had two pregnancies and breastfed two babies without any of that. I won't bother (I don't even think I can!) this time around either! I'd rather they get it straight from the breast anyway and feel like most of the time the colostrum collected beforehand is wasted. If you can't collect any now it doesn't mean that you won't be able to breastfeed or that your baby will not get what they need. Don't worry!
@Katie I hand express, and it is quite uncomfortable. I have an electric breast pump, but I read that it is only recommended to use hand expressing while you are pregnant. Even the hand pump is not recommended! I'm so confused. 😕
I've heard often people don't manage to and it doesn't have any reflection on their ability to breastfeed so try not to worry too much if you can't. Can't give any tips unfortunately as I was going to try but my midwife said not to bother so I haven't.