Does Colostrum Help Increase Milk Supply?

The short answer is that colostrum itself does not "increase" your supply, but the removal of colostrum does. Your body operates on a supply-and-demand system. The more frequently and effectively you remove colostrum, the more milk your body will be signaled to make.

The Power of Demand

When your baby nurses or when you express colostrum, you are sending a message to your brain. This message says, "We have a baby to feed! Send more milk." If colostrum is left in the breast and not removed, your body may receive a signal to slow down production.

This is why early and frequent milk removal is so important. In the first few days, your baby may want to nurse very often. This is called cluster feeding. It is not necessarily because they are starving. It is because they are doing the hard work of "ordering" your milk supply for the coming weeks.

The Hormonal Shift

During pregnancy, high levels of progesterone prevent your body from making large amounts of milk. Once the placenta is delivered, your progesterone levels drop sharply. This drop, combined with the removal of colostrum, triggers the next stage of milk production.

If you are proactive about removing colostrum in those first 48 to 72 hours, you are setting the stage for a robust supply. Every time you hand express or put your baby to the breast, you are building the foundation for your future milk volume. For more information about establishing supply during the early days, read this guide to increasing milk supply during the first week.

What to Do Next:

Nurse your baby early and often (8–12 times in 24 hours).
Prioritize skin-to-skin contact to boost oxytocin.
If baby isn't latching well, use hand expression to remove colostrum.
Trust that small amounts are normal in the beginning.

The Science of Milk Production: From Colostrum to Mature Milk

Your milk goes through a fascinating transformation in the first two weeks of your baby’s life. This transition is usually divided into three distinct stages. Each stage is tailored to your baby's changing needs and stomach capacity.

Stage 1: Colostrum (Days 1–4)

As we have discussed, this is the thick, concentrated milk you produce first. Your baby only needs about a teaspoon per feeding in the first 24 hours. Their stomach is only about the size of a marble at birth. Do not feel discouraged if you only see a few drops. Those drops are exactly what your baby needs.

Stage 2: Transitional Milk (Days 5–14)

Around day three to five, your milk will start to "come in." This is technically called Lactogenesis II. You will notice your breasts feeling fuller, heavier, and perhaps a bit tender. Your milk will change from yellow and thick to a creamier, thinner consistency.

During this stage, the volume of your milk increases rapidly. The levels of antibodies and protein decrease slightly, while the fat, sugar, and calorie content increase. This supports the rapid growth spurt newborns often have in their second week.

Stage 3: Mature Milk (Day 15 and Beyond)

By the time your baby is two weeks old, your milk is considered mature. It is roughly 90% water and 10% solids (carbohydrates, proteins, and fats). It may look thinner or even have a bluish tint, but it is exactly what your baby needs for hydration and growth.

Your supply will usually start to regulate around six to twelve weeks. This is when your body has figured out exactly how much milk your baby needs. You might notice your breasts feel softer, which is a normal sign of a well-regulated supply.

Antenatal Expression: Boosting Supply Before Birth

Some parents choose to start expressing colostrum before their baby is even born. This is known as antenatal colostrum expression. It is usually done by hand during the final weeks of pregnancy.

Why Express Before Birth?

For many, the goal is to have a "stash" of colostrum ready in case of emergencies. If your baby has low blood sugar or needs extra supplementation after birth, you can use your own stored colostrum instead of formula.

However, there is another benefit. Some evidence suggests that practicing hand expression during pregnancy can help you feel more confident after birth. It may also help "prime" your breasts. By stimulating the breast tissue and removing small amounts of colostrum, you are signaling your body to be ready for the big drop in progesterone.

When and How to Start

Most healthcare providers recommend waiting until you are 36 or 37 weeks pregnant before trying antenatal expression. This is because nipple stimulation can sometimes cause uterine contractions. Always talk to your doctor or midwife before you begin.

When you are ready, you can hand express for 5 to 10 minutes a few times a day. You can collect the drops in a small, sterile syringe and freeze them. This practice helps you learn the "sweet spot" on your breast for milk removal, which is a vital skill for the early days of breastfeeding. You can also review this colostrum and hand-expression resource for additional guidance.

Key Takeaway: Antenatal expression can build your confidence and provide a backup supply. It helps you master the technique of milk removal before you are tired and caring for a newborn.

Maximizing Colostrum for a Strong Supply Postpartum

The first few days are the most critical window for establishing your supply. How you handle the colostrum phase can impact your milk volume for months. Here are the most effective ways to use this time wisely.

Hand Expression vs. Pumping

In the first three days, hand expression is often more effective than using an electric pump. Colostrum is very thick and sticky. It can easily get stuck in the plastic parts and tubing of a pump. Hand expression allows you to move the milk directly into a spoon or a small cup.

To hand express, place your fingers in a "C" shape about an inch or two behind the nipple. Press back toward your chest, then gently compress your fingers together. Avoid sliding your fingers over the skin. You are looking for a rhythmic compression of the breast tissue.

Frequent Feeding and "The Golden Hour"

The first hour after birth is often called the "Golden Hour." If possible, place your baby skin-to-skin immediately. This skin contact releases oxytocin, the "love hormone." Oxytocin is responsible for the let-down reflex, which moves milk through the ducts.

Aim to feed your baby whenever they show hunger cues. These include rooting, sucking on hands, or smacking lips. Do not wait for your baby to cry. Crying is a late hunger cue and can make latching more difficult.

Rooming-In

Staying in the same room as your baby at the hospital or at home allows you to catch those early hunger cues. Frequent nursing in the colostrum phase ensures your breasts are being stimulated as much as possible. This is the best way to tell your body to "ramp up" production for the transitional milk stage.

The Rise of Bovine Colostrum Supplements

You may have seen ads for bovine (cow) colostrum supplements on social media. These are often marketed to adults for gut health, immunity, and even athletic performance. Some breastfeeding parents wonder if taking these supplements can help increase their own milk supply.

Understanding the Difference

Human colostrum and bovine colostrum are similar in that they are both "first milks." However, they are designed for different species. Bovine colostrum has a different balance of antibodies and growth factors meant for a calf.

Currently, there is no strong scientific evidence that taking a bovine colostrum supplement will increase human milk production. While colostrum is safe for most adults, it is not a traditional "galactagogue" (a substance that increases milk supply).

Choosing Evidence-Based Support

If you are looking for ways to support your supply, it is often better to look at ingredients that have been used for generations. Our Pumping Queen™ herbal supplement, for example, is designed to support milk supply and flow without the need for bovine-derived products. You can explore Milky Mama's lactation supplements for additional options.

Cautions for Supplements

If you choose to try any supplement, be mindful of the following:

Dairy Sensitivities: Bovine colostrum is a dairy product. If you or your baby have a milk protein allergy, you should avoid it.
Lack of Regulation: The FDA does not regulate supplements the same way it regulates medicine. Quality can vary between brands.
Medical Advice: Always consult with a healthcare provider or an IBCLC before adding new supplements to your routine, especially while breastfeeding.

Troubleshooting the Colostrum Phase

Even with the best preparation, the colostrum phase can present challenges. Knowing what is normal and what requires help can save you a lot of stress.

"I'm Not Making Anything"

It is very common to feel like you have no milk in the first 24 hours. Remember that colostrum is measured in teaspoons, not ounces. If your baby is having wet and dirty diapers, they are likely getting what they need.

If you are truly concerned, try hand expression. Seeing those few drops of "liquid gold" can provide the reassurance you need. If you cannot express anything and your baby is showing signs of dehydration (like a dry mouth or orange "brick dust" in their diaper), contact your pediatrician immediately.

Latch Difficulties

Sometimes a baby has trouble latching in the first few days. This can be due to a tongue tie, a flat nipple, or simply being sleepy from birth. If the baby isn't latching, you must remove the colostrum yourself.

Use hand expression every 2 to 3 hours. You can feed the expressed colostrum to your baby via a small cup, a spoon, or a syringe. This ensures the baby gets the nutrition they need while your body gets the signal to keep making milk. If you need personalized support, breastfeeding help and virtual consultations can connect you with a certified lactation consultant.

Engorgement and the Transition

When your milk transitions from colostrum to transitional milk, your breasts may become very hard and painful. This is called engorgement. It is not just milk; it is also extra blood flow and lymphatic fluid.

To manage this, continue to feed or express milk frequently. You can use cold compresses between feedings to reduce swelling. If your breasts are so hard that the baby cannot latch, try "reverse pressure softening." This involves gently pressing your fingers around the base of the nipple for a minute to push the fluid back, making the area soft enough for a latch.

How to Support Your Supply Journey

While the colostrum phase is the foundation, supporting your supply is a marathon, not a sprint. Your body needs consistent care to keep up with your baby’s growing appetite.

Nourish Your Body

Breastfeeding requires extra calories and nutrients. Focus on eating a variety of whole foods. Oats, flaxseed, and brewer’s yeast are traditional favorites for many breastfeeding families. You can review Milky Mama's ingredient guide to learn more about the ingredients used in its lactation products.

We created our Emergency Brownies® with these ingredients in mind. They are a delicious way to treat yourself while supporting your lactation goals. You can browse the lactation snacks collection to explore available options.

Stay Hydrated

Your milk is mostly water. If you are dehydrated, your body may struggle to maintain its volume. Keep a water bottle with you at all times. If you find plain water boring, our Lactation LeMOOnade™ is a great way to stay hydrated while also getting a boost of supportive ingredients. Explore the lactation drink mixes for drink options.

Mental Health and Rest

Stress can negatively impact your let-down reflex. While it is hard to "rest" with a newborn, try to prioritize sleep whenever possible. Accept help with chores so you can focus on bonding and feeding. Remember, your well-being matters just as much as your baby's.

Summary of Support Steps:

Nourish: Eat nutrient-dense meals and lactation-supportive snacks.
Hydrate: Drink at least 80–100 ounces of fluids daily.
Remove: Ensure milk is removed effectively every few hours.
Connect: Reach out to a support group or an IBCLC if you feel stuck.

Conclusion

Colostrum is a powerful start for your baby’s health. While it doesn't automatically "increase" your supply, the way you manage the colostrum phase is the key to your future milk volume. By removing colostrum frequently, either through nursing or expression, you are telling your body exactly what it needs to do next.

Colostrum is high in antibodies and perfectly suited for newborns.
The removal of colostrum triggers the production of more milk.
Antenatal expression can help prepare you for the breastfeeding journey.
Focus on frequent milk removal and self-care in the early days.

Every drop counts. Whether you are producing teaspoons or ounces, you are providing your baby with the best possible start. You are doing an amazing job, and we are here to support you every step of the way.

If you are looking for more ways to support your journey, consider exploring our lactation products or booking a virtual consultation with one of our certified lactation experts.

This product is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease. Consult with your healthcare provider for medical advice.

FAQ

Does having more colostrum mean I will have a high milk supply?

Not necessarily. Colostrum production is driven by hormones during pregnancy, while your later milk supply is driven by the removal of milk. Someone with very little colostrum can still go on to have an abundant milk supply if they nurse or pump frequently after birth.

Can I increase my colostrum production during pregnancy?

You generally cannot increase the amount of colostrum your body makes before birth, as it is controlled by pregnancy hormones. However, you can practice hand expression starting around 36–37 weeks to become comfortable with the process and collect what is available.

Is it normal to not see any colostrum before my baby is born?

Yes, it is completely normal. Some people can leak or express colostrum starting in the second trimester, while others see nothing until after their baby is born. Neither situation is a sign of how much milk you will produce later.

Should I take a colostrum supplement to help my supply?

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Does Colostrum Help Increase Milk Supply?

Table of Contents

Introduction

What is Colostrum? (The Liquid Gold Phase)

Why It Is So Concentrated

Key Nutrients in Colostrum