Colostrum is the first breast milk produced & secreted by a mother after the delivery of a baby. It is a thick and yellowish sticky fluid that is different from normal breast milk. Colostrum continues to secrete for 2 to 4 days.
It is rich in protein and contains B12. It contains antibodies that increase the immune system of the baby and helps to protect and fight against infections. And therefore Colostrum is also known as the first vaccine for babies.
Colostrum has many benefits to the newborn like, immunizing the baby against infections, it helps to clear first dark stools, helps to prevent chances of jaundice, providing complete nutrition to the brain, eyes, and heart for overall growth & development and it is easily digestible.
The mother’s body produces colostrum for about 2 to 4 days after birth. Afterward, transitional milk takes over which happens to be a mixture of colostrum and mature milk. In a couple of weeks, the supply of milk increased to meet the baby's requirement wherein regular breast milk comes.
Since Colostrum has the right amount of nutrition properties and has super benefits for a newborn, mothers should not miss feeding unless there are any medical reasons for which the baby is kept away. Still, parents can talk to doctors so any possible arrangements can be made and also proper guidance can be received about breastfeeding positions.