LAFAYETTE, La. (KLFY) — 84% of new moms initiate breastfeeding for their newborns. And in a recent study 14% of moms planning to breastfeed, now harvest colostrum.

Colostrum is the first form of milk produced by the mammary glands. Tracy Venable, Lactation Consultant and RN at Our Lady of Lourdes urges new and expecting moms to collect colostrum correctly.

“It’s produced in small amounts or quantities, but it’s packed with nutrients and antibodies, and it helps to nourish and protect the baby as soon as they’re born,” said Venable.

Collecting colostrum has now become a trend among moms.

“Usually, people do it because they want, you know, to prepare the breast and the milk supply for breastfeeding, especially if babies are having trouble latching, if the baby’s having a low blue blood glucose level, if they’re having trouble with their weight or jaundice. So, they want to have it prepare to bring to the hospital, you know, just ahead of time,” said Venable.

Breastfeeding professionals stress the importance of proper collection, because, if it’s not done correctly the milk is not usable.

“You should be collecting it in sterile containers and have a secure top and not just syringes with no top. And you should be labeling with the date and time, placing it in the freezer and then bringing it with you,” said Venable.

According to health professionals, breastfeeding has many positives. The main one being the antibodies and nutrition benefits. In addition, it protects babies from certain childhood cancers, and SIDS. It also protects moms from cancers like breast and ovarian.

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