Immediately after birth, the mother begins to secrete breast milk, which is very important for the development of the baby. The benefits of breast milk are countless. The content of breast milk is the factor that makes it beneficial. Breast milk is the baby’s main source of nutrition in the first months. According to experts, feeding babies with breast milk until the age of 2 is very important for the healthy development of babies.
Colostrum is thebreast milk that begins to be secreted immediately after birth. Colostrum, also known colostrum , is the first milk secreted by the mother. This milk has a rich content that supports the growth and development of the baby.
What is special about colostrum?
Colostrum contains all the nutrients babies need. It has a rich nutrient content that supports the development of the baby, especially protein, carbohydrate, fat, vitamins and minerals.
Colostrum, the first milk, is secreted immediately after birth. It is usually a little darker in color than breast milk. It can be light brown, dark yellow or different shades from person to person. However, its distinguishing feature is that it is not white like breast milk, but dark in color. The consistency of colostrum is also slightly thicker than breast milk. It can be expected to have a consistency like cream, less viscous than milk.
Benefits of Colostrum
- Acts as a natural antibiotic for the baby.
- Protects the baby’s upper respiratory tract and reduces the risk of allergies in babies.
- Improves the digestive system.
- Thanks to the growth factor it contains , it ensures rapid and healthy growth and development.
- It ensures that the baby is sufficiently saturated.
- Reduces the risk of infection.
- Reduces the risk of neonatal jaundice.
The first milk is very important for the baby. For this reason, it is important to think about the benefits to the baby until every drop and to take care of the baby’s nutrition from the first day. Some women who start breastfeeding may have inverted nipples. For this reason, it may be difficult for the baby to take the nipple into the mouth and suck it. Being prepared for such situations and using a nipple remover can make this process easier.
How many days does colostrum come?
Itis quite common for parents to wonder when colostrum , colloquially known as breast milk ,comes . Because this first milk, which will feed the baby immediately after birth, is very precious for the baby.
Colostrum starts to be secreted immediately after the birth of your baby. It can continue to be secreted for up to 4-5 days on average. As colostrum begins to decrease, the color of breast milk changes to lighter and whiter tones and its consistency becomes more fluid. While colostrum is secreted, it is important that your baby feeds on every drop of this milk.
It is quite normal for milk to leak from the breast from the first day your milk starts to come. It is possible to prevent this situation, which is frequently experienced during breastfeeding , with a breast pad that will not irritate your sensitive nipple .
In the early days, the amount of colostrum secreted may seem small. For many parents, this may cause them to doubt that their baby is full. However, your baby’s stomach is also very small at this time. Your baby’s first feedings may be a little at a time in short intervals.
Every drop of your milk is precious for your baby’s growth and development. For this reason , you should choose an electric breast pump that allows you to express your milk in a convenient and healthy way when you cannot breastfeed your baby .