Why Does My Breast Milk Comes Late After Birth?

Typically, mature milk begins to flow between 2 to 5 days postpartum. However, for some mothers, this onset is delayed, meaning mature milk arrives later than expected. While this can be concerning, especially when it affects a baby’s weight gain and overall well-being, it’s important to remember that delayed milk onset is generally temporary and can be overcome with the right information and support.

How Breast Milk Develops After Birth?

Your breasts start preparing for feeding long before your baby is born. From mid-pregnancy, they produce colostrum, a thick, yellowish substance that is perfectly designed for a newborn’s tiny stomach and developing digestive system. This early milk provides essential nutrients and antibodies, setting a strong foundation for your baby’s health.

After birth, mature milk production is hormonally triggered—an automatic process that signals your body to switch from colostrum to a fuller milk supply. However, this hormonal signal is only part of the story. The actual amount of milk your body produces depends largely on demand. Frequent feeding, especially in those first hours and days, sends messages to your body to ramp up production. Skin-to-skin contact and ensuring your baby is feeding effectively also play a critical role in stimulating your milk supply. When mature milk arrives, many mothers notice their breasts becoming fuller, heavier, and sometimes tender.

What Happens When Milk Comes In Late?

While many mothers see their milk come in within 2 to 3 days after birth, some experience a delay of several days or even longer. This delay means that the breasts don’t feel full or heavy as expected, and the transition from colostrum to mature milk takes more time. For parents, this can be worrying, particularly if the baby shows signs of not getting enough milk. Some of these signs include excessive weight loss beyond what’s normal, fewer wet or dirty nappies, or a baby who seems unsatisfied or overly sleepy during feedings.

The reasons for delayed milk onset vary, and while some risk factors have been identified, the experience is unique to each mother and baby. A delay doesn’t mean you won’t be able to breastfeed successfully—it just means you may need extra support and monitoring during this early period.

Common Factors That May Contribute to Delayed Milk Onset

Several factors can contribute to a delay in the arrival of mature breast milk:

• Caesarean Section: Surgical births can sometimes delay the hormonal and physical changes needed for milk production, partly due to the effects of anesthesia, medications, or recovery time.

• Separation from Baby: Immediate and prolonged skin-to-skin contact right after birth is essential for stimulating milk production. When mother and baby are separated, this natural stimulation is interrupted.

• Labour Medications: Certain drugs given during labour, such as epidurals or synthetic hormones, may affect the timing of milk coming in, although this is not always the case.

• First-Time Mothers: Mothers breastfeeding for the first time may experience a slower onset as their bodies adjust to this new demand.

• Stress and Fatigue: The physical and emotional stress of birth and early parenting can impact milk production.

• Health Conditions: Conditions such as diabetes, obesity, hormonal imbalances (like thyroid issues), or previous breast surgery can sometimes interfere with milk supply.

It’s important to understand that none of these factors guarantee a delay; many mothers with these circumstances still experience a timely onset of milk.

Monitoring Baby’s Wellbeing

Instead of focusing solely on when your milk comes in, it’s vital to pay close attention to your baby’s behaviour and physical signs that indicate they’re feeding well:

• Weight Changes: Some newborn weight loss is normal (up to 7-10% of birth weight), but ongoing weight loss or failure to regain weight by two weeks needs medical attention.

• Wet and Dirty Nappies: By day 4 to 5, babies should have about six or more wet nappies and at least three to four bowel movements per day.

• Feeding Cues and Satisfaction: A baby who feeds actively, swallows regularly, and seems content after feeds is generally getting enough milk.

• Alertness and Activity: Healthy babies are alert and active during wake times and have a strong suck and rooting reflex.

If you notice your baby is not meeting these milestones, it’s important to seek advice from a healthcare provider or breastfeeding specialist.

Things To Do If Your Milk Is Delayed?

If your milk is late arriving, it’s natural to feel anxious, but try to remain calm. Supplementing with formula may be recommended to ensure your baby’s nutritional needs are met while your milk supply builds up. Though supplementing can be disappointing for some mothers, it is often a temporary measure that helps keep your baby healthy without undermining your breastfeeding efforts.

Working with a lactation consultant or breastfeeding expert can provide personalised guidance. They can assess your baby’s latch and feeding effectiveness, help you develop a plan to increase milk supply, and support you in safely supplementing if needed. Frequent and effective breastfeeding or pumping stimulates milk production, so continuing to feed your baby regularly, even if supplementation is necessary, remains important.

Supporting Milk Production and Your Breastfeeding Journey

There are several strategies to encourage milk production during this early, sensitive period:

• Frequent Feeding: Aim to breastfeed or pump every 2-3 hours. The more often milk is removed from the breasts, the more milk your body is signalled to produce.

• Skin-to-Skin Contact: Spending as much time as possible with your baby skin-to-skin can calm both of you and stimulate hormonal responses that increase milk supply.

• Correct Latch and Positioning: Ensure your baby is latching deeply and feeding efficiently. A poor latch can reduce milk removal and cause nipple pain.

• Avoid Pacifiers Early On: While sometimes helpful, early pacifier use can reduce feeding cues and the time your baby spends at the breast.

• Stay Hydrated and Nourished: Drink plenty of water and maintain a balanced diet to support your body’s needs.

• Rest and Reduce Stress: Whenever possible, rest and seek support to manage stress, as both can impact milk production.

Trust Your Instincts and Seek Support

Breastfeeding is not always straightforward, and every mother’s experience is unique. It’s important to trust your instincts and seek help when you feel unsure. If the advice you receive doesn’t feel right, don’t hesitate to get a second opinion from a qualified lactation consultant or healthcare professional. Having someone who listens and respects your goals can make a significant difference in your breastfeeding journey.

Keeping a Positive Perspective

Breastfeeding doesn’t have to be “all or nothing.” Many mothers who start with supplementation or face delays in milk onset go on to exclusively breastfeed their babies successfully. Flexibility and openness to different paths can relieve pressure and make the experience more rewarding.

Remember, early breastfeeding challenges are common, and a delayed milk supply does not mean the end of your breastfeeding dreams. With the right support, information, and perseverance, you can overcome these hurdles and enjoy a fulfilling feeding relationship with your baby.

Conclusion

Delayed onset of breast milk can be a stressful experience, but it’s usually temporary and manageable. Understanding the hormonal and practical aspects of milk production, recognising signs that your baby is feeding well, and seeking support when needed are key to navigating this early phase. Whether your milk comes in on day two or day five, your body is working hard to nourish your baby, and with patience and care, you will find your way through this important time.