Do you know that breasts produce milk per the supply and demand rule? Undoubtedly, breastfeeding is one of the natural things that a human body does, but it comes with some triggers, especially for new mothers.
Curious about how and when your milk supply is regulated? We’ll explain the process and share tips to help ensure a healthy supply so your baby gets the nourishing feed they need.
If you are facing any nursing issues due to a colic baby, tongue tie, or hormonal imbalance, reach out to our lactation specialists.
Is Your Milk Supply Normal?
How do mothers know if their milk supply is fine or below average? Well, it’s common for mothers to worry about enough milk production to fulfill their baby’s demands.
Many mothers need to be more comprehensive if they have a low milk supply when their babies are nourishing well on their mother’s feed and growing well. Furthermore, when shifting to electric breast pumps, it takes time to respond to it so that it can be confusing as well.
Mothers must understand that their bodies adjust to the electric pumps, and it gets normal. However, if you still feel concerned about mild production, you must take professional lactation consultation services.
Milk Supply Regulation: A Complete Timeline
The milk supply in mothers gains momentum with time. New mothers must have noticed that the milk supply takes almost 2 weeks for a good flow and then an extra 2 weeks to regulate. The timeframe can vary from person to person depending on several factors.
Here is a general idea of what a milk production timeline looks like and what you can expect after delivery:
Stage 1: Colostrum formation
During the pregnancy, the body starts preparing for colostrum formulation, which is also known as lactogenesis. Colostrum is the first type of milk your body will make to feed the baby. It is enriched with nutrients, antibiotics, and antioxidants to strengthen immature immunity.
Studies reveal that when the baby starts feeding, the level of estrogen and progesterone fall rapidly, and prolactin is no longer blocked, which results in milk secretions. The second and third-trimester stage reveals some changes in your breasts, which is a clear indication of milk production, such as:
- Your nipples get darker
- Small bumps on the areolas
- Areolas become larger
Stage 2: Post-delivery transitional milk
During the first few days of delivery, your body will continue to make colostrum until a switch occurs. This is the second stage of lactogenesis, where the breasts feel more tender, swollen, and full.
This stage is commonly known as breast engorgement that lasts a few days to about a week. This is the phase where your body starts recognizing milk production needs. A lactation consultant can investigate the progress and find the underlying causes when the milk supply drops.
Stage 3: Mature milk production
After two weeks of colostrum feeding and breast engorgement, finally comes the time when your body establishes milky supply and demand.
This is the third stage of lactogenesis when your body notices how much milk you feed your body and starts adjusting it. Sometimes, your body will overproduce to the point that it creates discomfort.
What Signs Reveal an Established Milk Supply?
Now comes the question: how will you know your milk supply is regulated? Well, there are some signs that your breast milk is regulated and meeting the baby’s needs, such as:
How to Know If Milk Supply is Reduced?
To answer this question, the mothers must look for the answers by reflecting on their journey. If you are a new mother and experience some signs your milk supply is decreasing, question yourself:
- How frequently am I removing milk?
- Do I have damaged nipples or clogs?
- Am I taking over-the-counter medicines?
- How long is the baby sleeping at night?
- How many diapers am I changing per day?
If you still need to figure out if your milk supply is regulated or decreasing, learn about breastfeeding techniques and positions. You can consult a lactation specialist for a more detailed overview to gain deeper insights.
FAQs
At what point is your milk supply established?
Milk production regulation may vary for different individuals. However, a rough estimate shows that you can expect an increase in the first two weeks and an established milk supply after four weeks.
How long does it take for your body to regulate milk?
It takes almost six weeks to regulate milk production. After delivery, the first week goes away with the colostrum feeding followed by the regulation till the next five weeks.
Can I increase my milk supply after it has been regulated?
Yes, mothers will notice an increase in milk supply according to the baby’s demands. Moreover, it can be done with breastfeeding management.
What do soft breasts show about low milk supply?
Soft breasts are considered less complete as your body adjusts to the milk supply according to your baby’s needs; this doesn’t mean you have decreased milk supply.
