Written by: Neelu Prajapat.

Overview

A woman’s body goes through many changes while breastfeeding her baby. The production of breast milk is a complex process that involves the interaction of hormones, the nervous system, and the breasts. Breast milk is produced in different stages, which are determined by the amount of prolactin in the blood.

The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) strongly recommends exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months of life and that breastfeeding continues for at least 12 months.

Stages of Breastmilk Production

The first stage of breast milk production is called lactogenesis I. It begins when the baby sucks on the mother’s breast, which stimulates the production of prolactin. Prolactin is a hormone that signals the body to start making milk.

The second stage is lactogenesis II which begins when the milk ducts are full of milk. The milk is then released from the breasts and sucked by the baby.

The final stage is called lactation. It occurs after the baby has been breastfeeding for a few weeks. The amount of milk produced during lactation depends on how often the baby breastfeeds.

Mothers who’ve had breast surgery, such as breast reduction surgery, may have difficulty with their milk supply if their milk ducts have been severed. In this situation, a woman should talk to her doctor about her concerns and work with a lactation specialist.

Phases of Breastmilk

Colostrum

Colostrum is the first milk. It’s a thick, yellowish fluid that is produced in small amounts in the early stages of pregnancy and during the first few days (2-5 days) after giving birth.

It is rich in nutrients and antibodies, and it helps to protect infants from infection. Colostrum is also high in calories, so it helps newborns to gain weight quickly.

Transitional Milk

Transitional milk is produced in larger amounts than colostrum and has a thinner consistency. You’ll produce it from the 5th day until up to 2 weeks after delivery. Breastmilk contains all the nutrients and antibodies that babies need in the first six months of life. Nursing daily and efficiently removing milk will increase milk production and relieve engorgement.

Mature Milk

You produce mature milk around 10-15 days after delivery. It’s produced in the greatest quantities and has a creamy consistency.

Some women choose to breastfeed their infants for more than six months. In these cases, the composition of breast milk changes to meet the needs of older infants. Breast milk still has all of the nutrients needed to fulfill the demands of a developing baby.