1.What is Colostrum?
Definition of Colostrum
Colostrum is the first milk secreted by the mammary glands after childbirth, often referred to as "liquid gold." It is highly concentrated, rich in nutrients and immune-active substances essential for newborns, making it the most precious natural food in early life.
Postpartum Secretion Timing
Colostrum secretion begins in late pregnancy but typically becomes prominent 2–3 hours to 72 hours post-delivery. Even in preterm births or cesarean sections, hormonal changes in the mother’s body can trigger colostrum production.
Color and Texture
Colostrum is pale yellow or golden in color, with a thick, honey-like consistency. This hue stems from liposoluble substances like beta-carotene and vitamin A. Additionally, colostrum contains high levels of white blood cells (e.g., macrophages and lymphocytes) and other immune-active components, which contribute to its color and viscosity. Some mothers may produce transparent or orange-pink colostrum, which is normal.
2. Key Components and Functions of Colostrum
Immunoglobulins (IgA, IgG, IgM)
- IgA : Forms an antibacterial barrier on infants’ respiratory and intestinal mucosa, reducing risks of pneumonia and diarrhea.
- IgG : Supplements antibodies transferred via the placenta, enhancing systemic immunity.
- IgM : Directly neutralizes pathogens, particularly effective against Gram-negative bacteria.
Lactoferrin
- Inhibits the growth of pathogens like E. coli and Candida albicans .
- Boosts iron absorption efficiency by 50%, preventing physiological anemia.
Growth Factors (EGF, IGF-1)
- EGF : Accelerates intestinal villi development, reducing meconium expulsion time by up to 24 hours.
- IGF-1 : Promotes liver maturation, lowering the risk of neonatal hypoglycemia.
Nutritional Profile
- Protein content is 3× higher than mature milk (2.3g/100ml vs. 0.9g/100ml).
- Low lactose and fat content, easing digestive burden on newborns.
3. Six Core Benefits of Colostrum
- Immune Protection Shield : White blood cells and antibodies reduce newborn infection rates by 70% (WHO data).
- Gut Activator : Colostrum-fed infants pass meconium within 24 hours on average.
- Jaundice Prevention : Promotes bile excretion, reducing bilirubin enterohepatic circulation and jaundice incidence by 30%.
- Metabolic Programming : IGF-1 improves insulin sensitivity, lowering adult obesity risks.
- Microbial Colonization : Provides substrates for beneficial gut bacteria like Bifidobacterium .
- Mother-Infant Bond : Oxytocin secretion increases 300% during breastfeeding, aiding uterine contraction and emotional bonding.
4. Ensuring Effective Colostrum Intake
Golden 72-Hour Feeding Strategy
- Breastfeed within 1 hour post-delivery : Highest neonatal rooting reflex success rate (80% improvement).
- 8–12 feeds/day in 24 hours : Colostrum empties the stomach in 20 minutes, requiring frequent stimulation.
Proper Breastfeeding Techniques
- Biological Nurturing : Skin-to-skin contact allows infants to self-latch, minimizing nipple confusion.
- C-Hold Technique : Support the breast with four fingers, using the thumb to gently press the areola for better latch.
Intake Evaluation Standards
- Elimination Indicators : By Day 3, expect 3 yellow stools and 6–8 wet diapers daily (monitor for urine crystallization).
- Weight Curve : Physiological weight loss ≤7%, with birth weight regained within 10–14 days.
5. Colostrum vs. Mature Milk
6. Clinical FAQs
Q1: Is low colostrum volume normal?
- Yes. Physiological secretion is 5–10mL per feed, sufficient for newborns’ stomach capacity (5–7mL on Day 1).
Q2: Does cesarean delivery affect colostrum?
- Breastfeeding can begin 6 hours post-surgery. IV anesthesia does not compromise milk safety. Studies show 89% breastfeeding initiation within 24 hours post-cesarean.
Q3: Can preterm infants digest colostrum?
- Colostrum’s epidermal growth factor (EGF) promotes gut maturation. NICUs recommend oral application of 0.2mL/kg daily for preemies.
Q4: Should colostrum be warmed?
- Active components degrade above 60°C. Use 37°C water to rewarm refrigerated colostrum (store ≤72 hours).
