Colostrum is the first milk your body will start producing during pregnancy. Colostrum is the creamy yellow or golden substance that is present in the breasts before the mature milk is made. Colostrum is very high in protein and provides an important “super boost” of antibodies to protect your baby and strengthen the immune system. The colostrum also serves many other important functions to you and your baby.

Has a laxative effect that helps your baby pass the first few black, tarry stools called meconium (usually within the first 24 to 48 hours after birth).

When your baby starts suckling at your breast for the colostrum, this stimulates your body to start producing the mature milk.

The suckling also creates a surge of the hormone oxytocin in your body, which helps your uterus to contract and shrink down to its pre-pregnant size.