I am 30 weeks pregnant. My breast are so full that they leak. I have recently bought a breast pump, I plan to pump exclusively. I have read about storing breast milk.
Can I begin pumping now?
If yes, can I store what I pump, or is this not the kind of milk that the baby will need?

Yes, you can begin now. But this far in advance, you'll want to freeze it.

Here are "rules of thumb" for storage times:

* At room temperature (less than 77°F) for 4 to 8 hours
* At the back of a refrigerator for 3 to 8 days
* At the back of a freezer for up to 3 months

... and here are some helpful links:
http://www.google.com/search?hl=en&q=%22store+breast+milk%22&btnG=Google+Search

What am I producing now? Is it milk?

I am sorry. I see now that I jumped too quickly - focusing on the storage time and not the real issue.

Prior to birth, it's not "normal breast milk", but mostly Colostrum (which the baby needs for the first few days".

It is birth that triggers the hormones that cause you to produce milk.

As a previous poster said it is colostrum. More here:
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colostrum

Besides your milk being colostrum now, if you start pumping now, you could stimulate labor. You should see your lactation consultant to find out what you can do that will relieve the pressure in your breasts without inducing labor.

What am I producing now? Is it milk?

Dear, there are many more sites, and your doctor should explain this question to reassure you of any fears and/or anxieties that you have. Don't just go for the regular visit and leave with questions still unanswered. Remember, no forum or other sites should take the place of your doctor who knows you and your development best.

www.askdramy.com (http://www.askdramy.com) The U.K. online doctor.you can post on a forum, or 'ask the Dr. Amy' with a click. The FAQ Tab on the homepage is also a good place to click and has a lot of good subject matter. P.S. Most of the articles are printable in PDF format.
Good luck, and keep us posted.

Don't hesitate to post if you have further questions, but make sure your doc knows all of then and answers them to your satisfaction.

Happy Parenting!

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