International Board of Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) Practice Exam

What is the average amount of colostrum produced in the first 24 hours after birth?

1. 20 ml

2. 37 ml

3. 50 ml

4. 100 ml

The correct answer is: 37 ml

The average amount of colostrum produced in the first 24 hours after birth is approximately 37 ml. This early milk, known as colostrum, is produced in small quantities but is highly nutrient-dense and packed with immunoglobulins, which are crucial for the newborn's immune system. The production of colostrum is designed to meet the needs of the newborn, who has a very small stomach capacity at this time—around 5 to 7 ml at birth and increasing slightly over the first few days. The quantity of 37 ml reflects the transition from the initial small amounts of colostrum to the increasing volume as the mother's milk production escalates over the subsequent days. This balance ensures that the newborn receives the essential nutrients and antibodies without overwhelming their immature digestive system while adapting to feeding effectively.