Breastfeeding has health benefits for both you and your baby. For more information visit  NHS – Benefits of breastfeeding

Even small amounts of breast milk provide benefits.

Collecting Breast Milk Before Birth (Antenatal Expressing)

  • You can express colostrum, your first milk from 36 weeks (low‑risk) or 37 weeks (high‑risk) pregnancies.
  • Don’t worry if you don’t see colostrum before birth — many parents only see it after baby arrives.
  • Antenatal expressing helps you learn the technique and may provide colostrum for early feeds, but it is not essential for a good milk supply.

Expressing breast milk before baby is born

Colostrum Syringe Safety

  • Syringes are only suitable for small amounts in the first 24 hours.
  • After 24 hours, babies need larger volumes — use a cup, spoon, or bottle if not feeding at the breast.
  • Syringes provided by the NHS are purple (oral/enteral).
  • If buying your own, choose screw‑on or tethered caps — push‑on caps can be a choking hazard.