Colostrum is the first milk that women produce to breastfeed, which can begin to appear from 4 months of gestation. It is yellowish, very fat and very caloric. It is produced in small quantities, which is compatible with the size of the baby's stomach, during the first 2 or 3 days of the baby's life.
Colostrum is not a sign of pregnancy, but a white discharge can be released from the nipple of women after stimulation originated in intimate contact, at any stage of the menstrual cycle.
Colostrum contributes to the maturation of the baby's gastrointestinal tract, as it has anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial substances and properties that help in the defense of the baby's body. This protects you against various diseases, such as diarrhea and allergies, in addition to strengthening the relationship between mother and baby, being easy for the baby to digest, always being ready anytime, anywhere and free.
Composition of maternal colostrum
Colostrum is richer in protein, vitamin A and minerals, and less concentrated in carbohydrates and fat compared to mature breast milk.
The characteristics of colostrum are appropriate to the needs of the newborn baby. In addition, colostrum lasts only 2 or 3 days, when "milk rises" occurs and transitional milk starts, still yellowish in color.
Colostrum nutritional information
| Colostrum | Transition milk | Ripe milk | |
| Protein | 3.1 | 0.9 | 0.8 |
| Fat | 2.1 | 3.9 | 4.0 |
| Lactose | 4.1 | 5.4 | 6.8 |
| Oligosaccharides | 2.4 | - | 1.3 |
During breastfeeding, if the mother has a crack in her nipples, it is normal for colostrum to come out with blood but the baby can still breastfeed because it is not harmful to him. The doctor may recommend the use of a healing ointment for the nipples to be used during all breastfeeding that can prevent these cracks. However, the main cause of cracked nipples is the baby's poor grip on breastfeeding. Check here a Complete Guide to breastfeeding for beginners.
