The First Milk: Colostrum—Liquid Gold and the Perfect First Food

If you’ve ever heard the phrase, “You don’t have milk yet,” shortly after giving birth, you’re not alone. One of the most persistent myths in early breastfeeding is that moms don’t produce milk until their mature milk “comes in” around day three or four postpartum. But here’s the good news: you absolutely have milk! It’s called colostrum, and it’s one of nature’s most perfect foods for your newborn.

Let’s dive into what makes this first milk so incredible and why it’s all your baby needs in those precious first few days.

What Is Colostrum?

Colostrum, often referred to as “liquid gold” for its yellowish hue, is a highly concentrated, nutrient-packed milk produced during late pregnancy and the first few days after birth. Your body starts making it in the third trimester, preparing for your baby’s arrival. Despite its small volume—just teaspoons per feeding—colostrum delivers everything your baby needs during their first days of life.

Think of it as the ultimate superfood, designed to kickstart your baby’s immune system, nourish their tiny tummy, and protect them as they adjust to life outside the womb.

Why is Colostrum So Important?

Colostrum is not just “enough”—it’s the gold standard. Here’s why:

1. Immune System Support

Colostrum is rich in antibodies, particularly immunoglobulin A (IgA), which coats your baby’s digestive tract and acts as a first line of defense against harmful bacteria and viruses. This protection is crucial as your baby’s immune system is still developing.

2. Perfect Nutrition for a Tiny Tummy

Your baby is born with a stomach roughly the size of a cherry (5–7 mL capacity), so the small but mighty colostrum is all they need. Studies show that newborns consume an average of just 7–14 mL of colostrum per feeding in the first 24 hours of life—exactly what their tummy can hold. (Source: Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine, 2021)

3. Helps Clear Meconium

Colostrum acts as a natural laxative, helping your baby pass their first stool (meconium). This process reduces the risk of jaundice by helping to eliminate bilirubin, a yellow pigment produced during the breakdown of red blood cells.

4. Packed with Growth Factors

Colostrum is loaded with growth factors like epidermal growth factor (EGF), which helps develop your baby’s gut lining. This is critical for preventing infections and supporting nutrient absorption.

The Science Behind Colostrum Production

The production of colostrum is controlled by hormonal changes after birth. When the placenta is delivered, levels of progesterone drop, signaling your body to produce colostrum. Around day three or four, this milk transitions to mature milk, increasing in volume to meet your baby’s growing needs.

It’s important to note that the presence of colostrum doesn’t delay the arrival of mature milk—colostrum is part of the natural progression of milk production.

Misconceptions About “Not Enough Milk”

The idea that colostrum isn’t sufficient often stems from a misunderstanding about newborn feeding behavior. Babies feed frequently in the first days, often every 1–2 hours, which is completely normal. This frequent feeding stimulates your milk supply and helps ensure a smooth transition to mature milk.

Here’s a confidence boost: Research published in Breastfeeding Medicine (2016) shows that the average newborn’s weight loss in the first few days is not due to insufficient milk but rather normal physiological adjustments to life outside the womb.

Boosting Your Confidence as a Mom

It’s easy to second-guess yourself, especially with well-meaning advice from friends or family. But you’ve got this. Colostrum is not only “enough”—it’s miraculous.

Here are some affirmations to keep in mind:

• “My body is designed to meet my baby’s needs.”
• “Colostrum is enough for my baby in these first few days.”
• “Frequent feeding is normal and helps my milk supply grow.”

If you ever feel unsure, reach out to a lactation consultant or breastfeeding support group for reassurance and guidance.

Encouraging Facts About Colostrum

• Babies are born with reserves of brown fat to help regulate their energy needs, so the small volume of colostrum is perfectly adequate.
• Colostrum contains white blood cells (leukocytes), which help fight infections and strengthen your baby’s immune system.
• Breastfeeding within the first hour after birth—often called the golden hour—helps boost your baby’s instincts to latch and suckle.

The Takeaway: Trust Your Body

Colostrum is your baby’s first gift from you, tailored perfectly to their needs. Despite what you may hear, it’s enough, and it’s incredible. Every feed—no matter how small it seems—is a step toward building your baby’s health, immunity, and connection with you.

Trust your body. Trust the process. And know that you’re already giving your baby the best start in life.

---

Citations:

Ballard, O., & Morrow, A. L. (2013). Human Milk Composition: Nutrients and Bioactive Factors. Pediatric Clinics of North America.

Academy of Breastfeeding Medicine. (2021). The Breastfeeding-Friendly Pediatric Office. Guidelines for Practice.

Walker, M. (2016). Physiologic Jaundice in Newborns: Causes and Management. Breastfeeding Medicine.

Need more guidance on breastfeeding or colostrum? Let’s connect! Our lactation support services are here to help you feel confident, informed, and empowered. Book an appointment at Rootedmaternalwellness.com

Read More

• Breastfeeding Support Products for New Moms
• Breastfeeding for Beginners: Overcoming Doubts and Feeling Empowered
• The Microbiome of Breast Milk: Building Your Baby’s Gut Health
• Breastfeeding Help: 10 Expert Tips for a Strong Start
• Breastfeeding Help Near Me: Expert Support for Moms in NJ