Making milk in the early days

In the early days of breastfeeding, it’s normal to wonder how your body is producing milk and whether your baby is getting enough. For many new mums, the experience can feel overwhelming, but knowing what to expect and how to support your milk supply can provide peace of mind. Here, we’ll cover how your body makes milk and offer tips for boosting your supply during those essential first few weeks.

How your body makes milk

Colostrum: The first milk

In the first few days after your baby is born, your body produces colostrum, a thick, nutrient-rich milk. Colostrum is sometimes called ‘liquid gold’ because it’s packed with everything your newborn needs in their early days—antibodies, vitamins, and proteins to support their immune system and development

Your milk “coming in”

Around 2-4 days after birth, your milk will “come in,” and you’ll notice your breasts feeling fuller as your body transitions from producing colostrum to making mature milk. This is when you might experience some engorgement as your milk supply ramps up to meet your baby’s needs. Your breasts will adjust as your baby continues feeding, so don’t worry if they feel overly full at first—this is a normal part of the process.

Supporting your milk supply in the early days

Feed soon after birth

Offering a breastfeed or expressing milk by hand within the first hours after your baby is born is important in setting yourself and your baby up for success. Feeding and expressing tells your body that your baby needs milk thereby starting the process of supply and demand.

Frequent feeding is key

Your baby’s tummy is very small in the first days of life, so they’ll need to feed often. Frequent breastfeeding, usually 8-12 times in a 24-hour period, is crucial for establishing your milk supply. The more your baby feeds, the more your body is signalled to produce milk. It’s a natural process of supply and demand.

Watch for feeding cues

It’s helpful to feed your baby on demand, rather than sticking to a strict schedule. Look for early feeding cues, such as rooting, sucking on hands, or making sucking noises. Waiting until your baby is crying to feed can make latching more difficult, so responding early to these signs helps to ensure a smooth and calm feeding session.

Skin-to-skin contact

Spending time skin-to-skin with your baby in the early days can support breastfeeding and help boost your milk supply. This close contact helps regulate your baby’s temperature, heart rate, and breathing, and encourages them to feed more often. It’s also a lovely way to bond with your baby.

What if my milk is slow to come in?

It’s normal for some mums to feel concerned if their milk doesn’t seem to come in right away. Many factors can influence the timing, including the type of birth you had, how often you’re breastfeeding, and your own unique body. If your milk takes a little longer, remember that colostrum is still providing your baby with everything they need in those first days.

If you feel worried, reach out to a lactation consultant or your healthcare provider for support. They can help assess if your baby is feeding well and whether your milk supply needs extra encouragement.

Tips for boosting your milk supply

Ensure a good latch

A proper latch is essential for effective milk removal. If your baby isn’t latched on well, they may not be able to get enough milk, and this can impact your supply. If you’re having trouble with the latch, seek help early—a lactation consultant can provide guidance and tips to make sure you and your baby are comfortable during feeds.

Keep your baby close

Rooming in with your baby during the day and night can make it easier to notice feeding cues and breastfeed more frequently. This close proximity helps ensure that your baby gets plenty of opportunities to feed, which in turn stimulates your milk production.

Expressing milk

If your baby is not able to breastfeed directly (for example, if they’re premature, have a medical condition or have difficulty latching), expressing milk with a pump or by hand can help stimulate your supply. Aim to express milk as often as your baby would typically feed, about 8-12 times a day.

You’re doing great

The early days of breastfeeding can feel like an overwhelming whirlwind, but with the right support and information, you can feel confident that your body is doing exactly what it needs to nourish your baby. Take it one day at a time, and remember, every feed helps to strengthen your milk supply and your bond with your baby.

For more personalised advice, consider contacting a lactation consultant or joining a local support group. There’s no need to go through this alone—help is always available when you need it!