Making Plenty of Milk
Your breasts will easily make and supply milk directly in response to your baby’s needs. The more often and effectively a baby breastfeeds, the more milk will be made. Babies are trying to double their weight in a few short months, and their tummies are small, so they need many feedings to grow and be healthy.Most mothers can make plenty of milk for their baby. If you think you have a low milk supply, talk to a lactation consultant.
This is what you can expect in the first few weeks:
Birth
Milk
Your body makes colostrum (a rich, thick, yellowish milk) in small amounts. It gives your baby a healthy dose of early protection against diseases.
You
You will be tired and excited.
First 12-24 Hours
Milk
Your baby will drink about 1 teaspoon of colostrum at each feeding. You may or may not see the colostrum, but it has what the baby needs and in the right amount.
Baby
It is normal for the baby to sleep heavily. Labor and delivery are hard work! Some babies like to nuzzle and may be too sleepy to latch well at first. Feedings may be short and disorganized. As your baby wakes up, take advantage of your baby’s strong instinct to suck and feed every 1-2 hours. Many babies like to eat or lick, pause, savor, doze, then eat again.
Next 3 to 5 Day
Milk
First 4 to 6 Weeks
Milk
Mature milk continues.
Baby
Your baby will likely be better at breastfeeding and have a larger stomach to hold more milk. Feedings may take less time and will be farther apart.
You
Your body gets used to breastfeeding so your breasts will be softer and the leaking may slow down.
Updated December 29, 2017
