I've heard two different opinions on expressing colostrum and haven't had a chance to ask my doctor yet.

I've heard it should not be done because it can cause pre term labor and you only make a certain amount that should be reserved for your newborn. And I've heard it's harmless and that your body knows once you have given birth and will continue to make colostrum normally.

My problem is that if I don't express a little bit every so often, my nipples and even armpits start to hurt badly. Several weeks ago I had these massive bumps under my arms that turned out to be a backup of milk. They are gone now, but the only way to relieve the pain when I get it is to express the colostrum. And it already leaks so consistently I have to wear nursing pads.

Just wondering if this is safe to continue doing.