Your body is amazing. Not only does it grow and give birth to a person, but it can also feed a person for the first six months of their life. Did you know that as your baby grows and changes, so does your breast milk? Yes, that’s right. Your body knows how to make the best milk, rich in nutrients to protect and help your baby grow. So today, let’s take some time to get to know the three stages of breast milk.
Part 1: Colostrum
Colostrum, also known as “water gold,” is the precursor to your milk and is produced only 2-5 days after giving birth. A nutritious baby food, colostrum contains white blood cells and immune system support. Colostrum is high in protein but low in sugar and fat, making it easier for your baby to digest. Colostrum is very beneficial for your baby, you should give it first, even if you don’t plan to breastfeed.
Some women may produce colostrum throughout their pregnancy but don’t worry if you don’t see any. When the placenta is released from the uterus, hormonal changes signal the breasts that it is time to start developing. Colostrum is very different from breast milk. It’s thick, sweet, and usually golden/yellow in color (but can be very clear). One thing you may notice is that you will produce less colostrum than formula or mature milk.
Feeding your newborn consists of 1-1.5 teaspoons of colostrum. Although this may seem like a small amount, your baby’s belly is small and does not begin to stretch until the third day. At this point, your baby will be able to eat more at feedings, and, luckily, that’s when your milk supply will come in.
Step 2: Milk Replacement
Usually, between 3-6 days after giving birth, you will start producing “replacement” milk, a bridge between colostrum and mature milk. Your baby is growing rapidly in the first few weeks of their life, and surprisingly, your breast milk will change to meet their changing needs. During your milk cycle, your breasts are learning how much to supply based on how much your baby is eating.
The content of your milk during this time is changing, too. Compared to your colostrum, formula milk is higher in fat and lactose (sugar), which helps give your baby energy. The proteins in your modified milk will change, too. Casein and whey now play an important role in digestion and satiety. Whey proteins, which are high in antibodies and remain liquid in your baby’s stomach. This makes it easier and more digestible. Casein protein, however, folds when it mixes with your baby’s stomach acid, which helps them feel better. If you start to see small particles in your baby’s spit, that’s why.
Your breast milk changes dramatically during this time as your body learns how to adapt to your baby’s needs. At the end of your first month after giving birth, your milk will turn into mature milk.
Step 3: Mature Milk
Your final phase of the breast milk transition is your “maturing” phase, which occurs about four weeks after giving birth. During this time, your milk has almost made the necessary changes to meet your baby’s needs. Your breast milk is very effective in protecting your baby from bacteria. Good timing, too, as we’re sure you’ll see your little one putting a lot of stuff in his mouth! Interestingly, your mature milk is suitable for your special baby, scientists still have a problem with understanding the cells, antibodies, etc. breast milk is made and how it works to protect babies. Amazing.
Mature milk is given to your baby during breastfeeding in two stages: foremilk and hindmilk
- Future milk it is the milk that comes out at the beginning of your meal. It is lean, sweet, and often low in fat.
- Hindmilk it is milk that comes in gradually as your baby continues to feed. It is full of nutrients and high in fat.
Your mature breast milk not only satisfies your baby’s hunger, but also helps build gut bacteria, boost the immune system, and feed their rapidly developing brain. In addition, your mature breast milk contains cells and hormones that help build the foundation for your baby’s health throughout their life!!
If you’re struggling with breastfeeding, have questions, or just need help, we offer a variety of breastfeeding counseling packages, including an appointment!