My OB suggested I breast pump to help my body go into labor. I didn’t know that was a thing. But I’ve heard that the colostrum may help the baby with its first bowel movement?

Question

So my OB told me I could pump at 38 weeks to help me go into labor with my first baby. But I’ve also heard that the colostrum helps the baby make its first bowel movement. I’m feeling conflicted on if I should before or after having my out baby girl? She said any milk I get now I could start freezing. I thought breast milk didn’t last long in the freezer also am I wrong?

Answer

If you pump now you’re not gonna run out of milk. and breastmilk is good for 6 months in a freezer.

Answer

Nipple stimulation can trigger labor but it's extremely unlikely to help at 38 weeks. Closer to 40, has the potential but it's not a guarantee. Breast milk lasts up to a year in the freezer. Colostrum will continue to build until baby comes so even if you pump now, you will still have some for baby. Also colostrum will come in DROPS. You will need syringes to put it in if you decide to go that route because it will not be enough for a bag. This is normal. If you plan to breastfeed it is a good idea to get on the le leache league website and read everything you can so you are ready when baby gets here.

Answer

Look to Le Leche League for how to properly store breast milk and how long its good for. It can stay in the freezer for quite some time depending on the type or freezer you have. A freezer chest will last longer than one thats part of the fridge.
You won't run out of colostrum even if you start pumping. Milk doesn't come in until 3-7 days after birth. Plenty of people leak colostrum before birth and save it without having issues breast feeding after babe is born. I'd reach out to a lactation consultant for any questions or use Le Leche League as another resource. You can meet with a lactation consultant before birth

My OB suggested I breast pump to help my body go into labor. I didn’t know that was a thing. But I’ve heard that the colostrum may help the baby with its first bowel movement?

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