Prenatal Hand Expression and Colostrum Collection: A Complete Guide for Expectant Parents

When you are preparing for your baby’s arrival it can bring up lots of questions, especially about feeding in the first hours and days after birth. What many expectant parents explore is prenatal hand expression and colostrum collection, typically starting at 36–37 weeks of pregnancy with provider approval.

Some may wonder what prenatal hand expression is, who it may benefit, how colostrum collection works, and how using a prenatal hand expression kit can simplify the process. I hope to explain some of this here. 

What Is Prenatal Hand Expression?

Prenatal hand expression is the practice of gently expressing colostrum from the breasts during the final weeks of pregnancy. The colostrum is collected, stored, and frozen so it can be used after birth if needed. When you first begin hand expression you may not see any drops of colostrum, but that is okay. You are still building confidence as well as helping boost your milk supply for the future. 

Most healthcare providers recommend starting no earlier than 36–37 weeks gestation, and only after your OB, midwife, or healthcare provider gives approval. We do not want to risk premature labor and sometimes hand expression can can trigger uterine contractions.

What Is Colostrum and Why Is It Important?

Colostrum is the first milk your body produces during pregnancy and in the early postpartum period. Often called “liquid gold,” colostrum is thick, concentrated, and rich in:

• Antibodies that support newborn immune health

• Proteins that protect the gut

• Nutrients perfectly suited for a newborn’s small stomach

Even tiny amounts—drops or fractions of a milliliter—are incredibly valuable.

Benefits of Prenatal Colostrum Collection

Prenatal colostrum collection can be especially helpful for parents who:

• Have gestational diabetes or diabetes

• Are expecting a baby at risk for low blood sugar (hypoglycemia)

• Are planning a cesarean birth

• Are expecting twins or multiples

• Anticipate a possible NICU stay or early separation

• Want a non-formula supplementation option available after birth

Having frozen colostrum on hand can provide peace of mind and flexibility in the early postpartum period.

Is Prenatal Hand Expression Safe?

For most low-risk pregnancies, prenatal hand expression starting at 36–37 weeks is considered safe with provider approval. It may not be recommended if you have:

• A history of preterm labor

• Placenta previa or placental complications

• Cervical insufficiency

• Any medical condition where avoiding contractions is advised

Always consult your healthcare provider before beginning prenatal hand expression.

How to Collect Colostrum Before Birth

Once cleared by your provider, many parents express colostrum:

• 1–2 times per day

• For 5–10 minutes per session

• Using gentle hand expression techniques

Colostrum is typically collected in small sterile syringes or collection containers, labeled with the date and time, and frozen immediately.

Amounts vary widely—and that’s normal. Drops count.

Simplifying the Process with a Prenatal Hand Expression Kit

One of the biggest challenges with prenatal colostrum collection is figuring out what supplies you actually need. A prenatal hand expression kit removes the guesswork by providing everything in one place.

A well-designed kit includes:

• Sterile colostrum collection containers

• Clear labeling guidance

• Storage and transport instructions

• Educational support so you feel confident using it

Using a prenatal hand expression kit helps ensure colostrum is collected safely, stored properly, and ready to use if needed—without scrambling for supplies late in pregnancy.

Prenatal Hand Expression is the best Breastfeeding Prep you can give yourself

Using Colostrum After Birth

Collected colostrum may be used:

• If your baby needs supplementation

• If latching is challenging at first

• To help stabilize newborn blood sugar levels

Your healthcare team or lactation consultant can help guide when and how to use it.

Final Thoughts on Prenatal Hand Expression and Colostrum Collection

Prenatal hand expression and colostrum collection can feel empowering for some parents. The most important steps are provider approval, accurate education, and choosing tools that make the process feel manageable.