Colostrum is the milk produced during the first 2-4 days after delivering a baby and it is the first stage of milk production. The secretion of colostrum may start a few days before delivery. After colostrum, a type of milk that is half way between colostrum and mature milk is secreted before mature milk, this is called "transitional milk".There are many benefits of colostrum even with its little amount (less than mature milk) as it contains the suitable nutritional substances that the baby needs during this stage.
Colostrum contains lymphocytes and leukocytes (white blood cells of the immune system) as well as fat, proteins, carbohydrates and minerals all in the optimal proportions and concentrations for the newborn to digest with ease.
Apart from being amazingly nutritive and of suitable amount and concentration, colostrum is also rich in antibodies and immune cells. Colostrum secretion also help the involution of the uterus back to its normal shape and place.
It's important to evacuate the breast during the first few days and regularly evacuate it as to prevent milk engorgment. Persistence of colostrum for a long period may indicate scanty milk production and medical help should be sought.
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