What to Expect When Your Milk Comes In: A Guide for New Breastfeeding Mums

Hey there, pregnant mumma! Have you ever wondered what the big deal is about when your milk comes in? Well, let me tell you, it’s quite the experience! From the anticipation to the actual event, it’s a rollercoaster ride of emotions and physical changes. Picture this: you’ve just given birth a few days ago, you’re filled with joy, excitement, and maybe a touch of exhaustion, and suddenly, your body gears up for another miraculous phase. The birth of your baby sets off the process in your body that leads to your milk coming in – it’s like a symphony of nature’s orchestration. But don’t worry if it sounds overwhelming; I’m here to guide you through it all.

In this post, I’ll cover the ins and outs of what to expect when your milk comes in. We’ll dive into when your milk typically comes in, how to recognise the signs, whether you need to give your baby formula while you wait, how to manage engorgement, and three actionable tips to make this phase more comfortable and manageable for you and your baby.

When Does Milk Come In?

You’re probably wondering, “When does my milk come in, anyway?” Well, typically, your milk will start to come in within three to five days after giving birth. Remember, every mum and baby pair is unique, so it might vary a bit. But generally, this is when your body kicks into high gear to nourish your little one with that liquid white gold.

Signs Milk Is Coming In

So, how do you know when it’s happening? Your body gives you some pretty clear signs. Your breasts might feel fuller, heavier, and warmer. You might notice that your nipples become tender and more sensitive. Some mums even experience a tingling sensation in their breasts. These signs are all indicators that your milk is on its way!

Do I Need to Give Formula Until Milk Comes In?

A common question many new mums ask is whether they should give formula until their milk fully comes in. The short answer? No, it’s not necessary. Before your milk comes in, you’re already making a type of milk called colostrum. It’s yellow in colour and is made in tiny amounts. Your baby’s tiny tummy only needs these small amounts of colostrum in the first few days after birth. Colostrum is packed with antibodies and essential nutrients, providing your newborn with everything they need until your milk supply increases. For some mums whose milk still hasn’t come in after the 5 day mark, expressing extra colostrum or giving bub donor breastmilk or formula may be necessary, ONLY IF bub is showing signs they’re not getting enough milk. Learn more about how to tell if bub’s getting enough milk in this free guide.

What is Engorgement and How Long Does It Last?

Ah, engorgement – possibly a not-so-pleasant side effect of your milk coming in. Engorgement happens when your breasts become overly full and swollen, making them feel rock hard and uncomfortable. It’s very common in the first week or two as your body builds your supply to meet your baby’s needs. Typically, engorgement peaks around the third to fifth day after birth and gradually subsides as your milk supply regulates. It might last a few days, but don’t worry, mumma, it does get better!

3 Tips to Make Milk Coming In More Comfortable and Manageable

1. Frequent Breastfeeding Following Baby’s Lead:

Breastfeed your baby every 2-3 hours and let them take as long as they need before switching sides or finishing the feed. This helps prevent engorgement and helps build your milk supply.

2. Make sure baby’s latching properly:

Making sure your baby latches onto the breast properly and is breastfeeding effectively is essential for successful breastfeeding. A good latch means baby can get the milk from your breasts easily and prevents nipple pain and engorgement. Find out how to help your baby get a good latch in this free guide. If you’re concerned about your baby’s latch, see an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC) as soon as possible. You can book a home visit or online video call with me here.

3. Use Cool Packs:

Applying cool packs to your breasts can help soothe inflammation and discomfort caused by engorgement. Simply place the cool packs on your breasts between feeds to settle the swelling and tenderness.

So, there you have it, mumma – a glimpse into what to expect when your milk comes in. Embrace this incredible journey with patience and confidence, knowing that your body is doing something truly amazing. If you want to dive deeper into the world of breastfeeding, I invite you to sign up for the waitlist for my online course “Breastfeeding Basics: From Prep To Pro”. In this course we’ll explore how breastfeeding works and more tips and tricks to make your breastfeeding adventure a happy and fulfilling one. Until then, remember to trust your instincts, take care of yourself, and cherish these precious moments with your little one. You’ve got this!