u/Honest-Window-8388

I’m 37w3d pregnant and really struggling to harvest colostrum…

I want to harvest some colostrum before giving birth. I’m not sure if I want to breastfeed but basically just not putting pressure on it. I’m planning on giving it a go but have always wanted to have some colostrum to take to hospital if I can!

I’ve been leaking since 30ish weeks and have been trying to hand express the last few days. I can see the nipple is wet with colostrum but it’s not enough to syringe. I don’t understand how some people are getting enough to express into a pot?!

I’ve tried a hot shower beforehand, warm compress, sitting in the nursery and trying at different times in the day.

Any advice would be really appreciated! I’m planning for an elective c-section at 39 weeks so feel like I’m running out of time if I want to do this…

I’m 36 weeks pregnant and pretty much have my birth preferences good to go. I’m quite open to going with what needs to happen. However, the one thing I really do not want is forceps.

My little brother was born with forceps and one eye was badly damaged and he has no sight in it (he’s 17 now) and all in all it was a traumatic birth experience for my mum.

I’ve also heard of other stories and complications associated with forceps and just really don’t want that method of assisted delivery. However, I don’t think it’s really an option to not have it if it’s needed? I understand that everything is technically ‘my choice’. However, by the stage that forceps is needed usually means it’s too late for a c-section and baby has made their way down the birth canal. If it’s what’s deemed medically necessary in that moment then they’ll go with it.

What are my options here? Any advice around it would be really welcome!