What Are The 3 Breastmilk Stages?
Breastfeeding is a precious bonding moment that also provides essential nutrients and antibodies to newborns. As your body naturally adjusts during your pregnancy and begins producing milk for your infants’ arrival, you may notice some things about your breast milk that you are questioning. The answers to these questions are simple and can be broken down into 3 breastmilk stages that all mothers go through. By understanding these stages, you can navigate the early days of breastfeeding and ensure that your baby receives a healthier start in life. Let’s talk about the 3 essential stages of breastmilk.
Stage 1: Colostrum
Colostrum is the first stage of milk production and takes place while you are still pregnant. It may be thick and yellowish or orange in color, but do not be alarmed Mom, this is normal. It can also be thin and white as it will vary from mother to mother and will last up to several days after you have given birth. Filled with fats, proteins, vitamins, and immunoglobulins, colostrum protects your baby from both bacterial and viral infections. Depending on its consistency, some moms’ prefer to hand-express but it is vital to use your pump as well to encourage milk production. It is normal for your milk production to be minimal at first as production is expected to increase around three days after birth, possibly five if you are a first-time mother (Murray, 2022).
Stage 2: Transitional Milk
As you breastfeed, your milk will change producing Transitional milk next. This milk production starts two to four days after birth and can last up to two weeks. Much like colostrum, it is high in fats but also lactose and water-soluble vitamins. High in calories, Transitional milk is a combination of Colostrum and Mature Milk.
Stage 3: Mature Milk
Mature milk is the last stage of breastfeeding and is produced around the time your baby turns two weeks old. Two types of milk are released during this stage. Foremilk, the first release of milk your baby receives at the beginning of feeding, is made of 90% water to keep the baby hydrated. Hindmilk makes up 10% and is released post-foremilk. Made up of fats, Hindmilk is catered to help your little one gain the necessary weight. As your baby develops and begins to sleep longer, your body will adjust to this change so you won’t need to pump or feed as often. Avoid waiting until your breasts are full to feed as this will slow down your milk production.
Final Thoughts
You can ensure your baby is receiving enough to eat by monitoring their diaper volume, their feeding pattern, crying after feeding, and how long they sleep throughout the night. Every mother’s breastfeeding journey is different. The important thing to remember is to not rush as this is a special time for you and your baby to be close. We hope you found this article on the 3 breastmilk stages to be insightful. Feel free to schedule a consultation today to learn more. Please remember to share it with a friend. You may also be interested in a previous article on Ovulation: 5 Signs of Returning Fertility While Breastfeeding.
References
Murray RN., BSN, Donna. “Surprising Ways Breast Milk Changes.” Verywell Family, Verywell Family, 30 Aug. 2022, www.verywellfamily.com/breast-milk-definition-stages-431549.
