Hand expression is a simple, effective way to express small amounts of colostrum—especially in the first hours and days after birth, when milk volumes are naturally low. This technique can help stimulate milk production, support latch learning, and provide supplemental colostrum if needed. 

 

This nutrient-rich first milk is packed with antibodies and can be especially helpful if your baby needs extra support with feeding after delivery. Some women may have collected colostrum during late pregnancy with OB approval, but for most, hand expression begins right after birth.

 

In the Golden Hour (the first hour after delivery), hand expression can help:

• Encourage early milk flow

• Provide colostrum for spoon or syringe feeding if baby is sleepy, premature, or needs extra support

• Gently lengthen the nipple to support a deeper, more effective latch

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How to Hand Express

1. Warm Up: Use a warm compress or gentle breast massage to encourage letdown
2. Position: Form a “C” or “U” shape with your thumb and fingers around the edge of the areola
3. Express:

• Press back toward the chest wall, then gently compress and release

• Avoid sliding your fingers or pinching the nipple

• Rotate hand placement to express from different milk ducts

• Continue for 3–5 minutes per breast or until droplets slow

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Expect just a few thick yellow, cloudy or clear drops—this is completely normal. Colostrum is produced in small amounts and is rich in nutrients and antibodies.

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Tips for the First Week

• Hand express before and after latch or pump sessions to help boost milk supply

• Collect colostrum using a sterile spoon or syringe for supplementation, if needed

• Ask your nurse or lactation consultant for guidance with technique

• Be consistent—your body responds to repeated stimulation over time

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Follow CDC guidelines for the safe handling and storing of expressed milk here.

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A Few Notes:

• Not seeing colostrum right away can be normal. It does not mean you have low supply or won’t make enough milk. However, if you’ve been consistently stimulating with hand expression, latching, or pumping—and still see no colostrum after the first 24 hours—be sure to speak with your lactation consultant for support and evaluation.

• If you’re unsure about technique or want personalized guidance, consider booking a prenatal lactation consult to learn more.