Antenatal Milk Expression (AME)
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If you are a new patient seeking prenatal care, please call 310-794-7274. If you are an established patient and need to reach labor and delivery, call 310-825-9111 for Westwood or 424-259-9250 for Santa Monica.
About Antenatal Milk Expression (AME)
AME is the practice of hand-expressing breast milk, also called colostrum, during the last weeks of pregnancy.
This is an evidence-based practice that may help some babies avoid the need for formula after birth. It can be especially helpful when a baby may be at higher risk for low blood sugar, such as with gestational diabetes, late-preterm birth, or growth restriction.
It is important to follow specific instructions for how to express and store breast milk. Not following these guidelines can increase the risk of bacterial growth or contamination.
AME is not a universal practice and is not recommended for everyone. Anyone who is interested in AME should first talk with their OB provider to make sure it is safe.
UCLA recommends referral to the Lactation Clinic for education and support. A lactation consultant can help guide you through the process, ensure you are using safe and effective techniques, and discuss how to bring stored colostrum to the hospital and how it may be used after birth.
For more information, visit: UCLA Lactation Program