Near the end of pregnancy a woman should decide if she would like to breastfeed her child. This is important to decide early on to make the process run smoothly and comfortably. A woman also needs to decide early enough to get herself emotionally, mentally, and physically ready for the process. She can do this by talking to other women who have successfully breastfed, discussing it with a professional, taking classes, and watching videos or reading books. Colostrum is a premilk substance, which contains antibodies and white cells from the mother's blood.
Colostrum contains immunity factors that help protect the newborn infant from infections.
Breast milk also contains a powerful antibacterial agent called lactoferrin. Lactoferrin binds iron and keeps it from supporting the growth of harmful bacteria and fungi in the infants intestinal tract. Only breastmilk contains all these factors, which help your infant to grow naturally, safely and productively. The extra calories are needed to produce adequate breast milk. Drink lots of liquids, at least 8 cups per day.