Can't express colostrum

[NewMum2Be86]

Hi... New to Mumsnet,

I'm 37+1 weeks pregnant and been advised to start collecting my colostrum at 37 weeks. I tried yesterday and today and haven't been successful. I was diagnosed with GD a few days ago and since then my blood sugars have improved after making a few small changes to my diet.

I don't know if that has anything to do with it.

Any tips on getting a flow going??

Please try not to stress/worry if you can’t express colostrum before birth. Some can and some can’t. I was only able to get 3-4 mls of colostrum before giving birth and that was mostly during weeks 38/39 and after spending sometimes up to an hour at a time! As soon as I gave birth, it was MUCH easier to get it out. I’m talking less than a minute.
Your body might not be quite ready yet and need the actual birth to kickstart the hormones needed to release the milk.
I’d recommend taking the collection syringes with you to the hospital or wherever you plan to give birth and then that way you’ve got them to hand if you find like me it’s easier to express afterwards.

I couldn't get anything before birth! Apparently its very common, especially for first time mums. But i had to express for two weeks after labour because DD was in NICU and managed just fine then so echo pp above to take some syringes with you.

Pretty sure attempting colostrum harvesting brought on my labour so hope you have your hospital bag packed! 😉