signs milk is coming in during pregnancy + Postpartum

If you're eagerly awaiting your baby’s arrival, you might wonder, “When does breast milk start flowing?” What many don’t realize is that the body begins preparing for a baby well before birth. In fact, women start producing their baby’s first food midway through pregnancy and produce different types of breast milk in the early weeks after birth.

photo credit: https://www.birthmadebeautiful.com/

When Does Breast Milk Start During Pregnancy?

Did you know that you might already be producing early breast milk while pregnant, even if you’re unaware of it? Milk production typically begins midway through pregnancy, usually between weeks 16 and 22. During this time your body starts making colostrum, a nutrient-rich, yellowish milk packed with calories and antibodies that will be your baby’s first food after birth. Some expectant moms may notice faint yellow or orange stains on their bras in the second or third trimester, a sign of colostrum leaking from their nipples. (Don’t worry if you don’t experience leaking, it’s completely normal!) Other than this, there are no signs of milk coming in until after your baby is born.

After your baby is born, your body is prepped and ready for your baby to have colostrum. This is true whether you delivered vaginally or via cesarean. As your baby gets the hang of breastfeeding and their needs change, your body will begin to go through three stages: colostrum, transitional milk, and finally, mature breast milk. Colostrum is days 1-2, transitional milk is days 2-5, and then mature milk comes in within a week or two (these are averages).

Colostrum

Because your body starts producing colostrum during pregnancy, that is the first food your baby will have. Your newborn will only get a few drops of colostrum at each feeding, but they will get plenty of nutrients. A newborn’s stomach is only the size of a marble. Colostrum also helps baby pass their first stool, meconium, and helps prep baby’s intestines for mature breast milk.

Transitional milk

Transitional milk typically comes in two to five days after birth. This period is often referred to as “milk coming in.” As this happens your breast milk production will start to increase and fill up your baby’s expanding belly. Your breasts may start to feel full. Transitional milk will look thinner and whiter than colostrum.

Mature breast milk

Toward the end of the second week, the mature breast milk starts to come in. Mature breast milk is the milk babies will continue to drink until they wean and has a higher fat content. Breastmilk composition changes throughout the breastfeeding journey to fulfill what the baby needs.

While the timeline for breast milk production generally follows the stages of colostrum, transitional milk, and mature milk, several factors can influence the exact timing and experience of this process for each individual. Understanding these factors is crucial for expectant mothers. Explore these influences to gain a clearer perspective on what to expect.

Factors Affecting the Timing of Milk Production

Several factors can influence when milk production begins during pregnancy and how quickly it transitions postpartum:

Hormonal Changes

During pregnancy, hormones such as estrogen and progesterone play a crucial role in breast development and milk production. After birth, a drop in these hormones triggers the production of prolactin, which is essential for milk synthesis. Variations in hormone levels can affect how early or late milk comes in.

Health Conditions

Certain medical conditions, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), thyroid disorders, or diabetes, can impact hormonal balances and, consequently, milk production. It's important to discuss any pre-existing health issues with your healthcare provider for proper management.

Physical Factors

Factors such as breast surgery or previous breastfeeding experiences can impact the body's milk production capabilities. Women with a history of breast surgeries might find milk production to be delayed or reduced.

Stress and Emotional Well-being

Stress levels, anxiety, and emotional health can significantly impact breastfeeding and milk production. Higher stress levels can affect hormone balance and might delay milk coming in.

As these elements interact to establish a healthy breastfeeding routine, it's equally important to recognize the changes that occur in the milk itself. Transitioning from the nutrient-rich colostrum to mature breast milk is a significant phase in a mother’s breastfeeding journey. Learn what indicators to watch for so that you can identify when you are producing mature breast milk.

Transitioning from Colostrum to Mature Milk

Monitoring how your milk transitions from colostrum to mature milk is important for new mothers. Here are some signs that indicate this transition is happening well:

Change in Milk Color and Consistency

As your milk transitions, you'll notice that it becomes thinner and whiter compared to the yellowish, thicker colostrum. This change typically occurs a few days postpartum.

Increased Volume

With the arrival of transitional milk, you should notice an increase in the amount of milk your baby is consuming. Your breasts may feel fuller, and you might observe more milk being seen during feedings.

Baby’s Output

Another crucial indicator is the number of wet and dirty diapers. By day five, a well-hydrated baby should have at least six to eight wet diapers and several bowel movements each day, indicating they are getting enough mature milk.

Weight Gain

Keep an eye on your baby's weight; a steady gain will signal that they are receiving adequate nutrition from your breast milk. Pediatric check-ups will help monitor this progress. The goal is for your baby to be back up to their birth weight by two weeks of age.

Resolve Your Milk Production Concerns with TCBC

If you have any questions about milk coming in during pregnancy or need additional guidance during this important time, don’t hesitate to reach out to The Twin Cities Birth Center. Our knowledgeable staff is here to support you through your breastfeeding journey and answer any concerns you have. Your well-being and your baby's health are our top priorities!