Why am I leaking on my favorite tee? What to know about the 3 Phases Of Milk

If this is your first time entering the journey of breastfeeding or if it's your third time around, knowing how that “liquid gold” benefits you and your little one is important. Breast milk isn’t just milk, it’s your little one's liquid love! This experience of breastfeeding with your little one is an intimate journey that keeps you bonded for life. We are here to break down the three phases of milk for you. 

PHASE 1 : Colostrum  

FIRST 2-5 DAYS

The first phase of milk is called colostrum. Think of this as the “Golden Ticket” of your milk. Just like in Willy Wonka's Chocolate Factory, your “Golden Ticket” is one of a kind.

This is the phase where your little one gets their first taste of love from mom. In your early days of postpartum, this milk is typically very thick and may have a dark yellow color. Colostrum contains loads of protein and other nutrients for your little one to grow strong and healthy! 

PHASE 2 : Transitional Milk  

5-10 DAYS 

As postpartum continues, breast milk also transitions into its next phase! At this point the milk is not fully mature, but your body is producing significantly more milk for your little one. Your breasts may feel fuller and the milk color will transition into a whiter shade. Your baby is growing, which means they are hungry. Your body's working overtime to be in tune with your little one’s needs. This transitional milk is providing your little one with more fat and natural sugars. Your little one will absolutely love this stage because more milk, with all the good stuff, means your little one is satisfied. 

Because your breasts are learning how much milk your baby needs, the transitional milk phase can be emotional and stressful. You may experience too much production, not enough and you may even leak all over your favorite tee. If you are like most new moms, you will experience this all on the same day! All of this is normal, be patient with your breasts, because they are trying to figure out this whole thing too. 

Phase 3 : Mature Milk  

10-15 DAYS

And for the finale... Mature Milk has arrived. Mature Milk contains the right nutrients as well as lots of water to nourish and hydrate your growing little one. The nutrients and antibodies in your Mature Milk are there to protect your little one from illnesses. With its high-fat content, you'll notice that your baby is more full and satisfied. 

Not to get too in depth, but this is very important. There are two phases of Mature Milk {Foremilk and Hindmilk}. Foremilk comes out at the start of a feed and is thin and sweet. This is very enticing to your little one. Hindmilk comes in gradually and is higher in fat and nutritionally dense, leading to that full and happy baby belly. (this is often when your baby falls asleep)

Why is it vital that you know this? Because a more informed breastfeeding mom is more likely to reach those #MilkMilestones. Now you know why fully completing each feed is necessary- so that your little one gets that good hindmilk each time. The La Leche League is a wonderful resource for more detailed information.

This journey is full of love, growth and nourishment all for your little one! While feeding your bundle of joy is so important, also make sure you are nourishing yourself, Mom. Our Lacsnac Lactation Brownies, Cookies and Overnight Oats partner with you, by serving up wholesome natural foods using ingredients known to increase your breastmilk production. We are here to get you through those tough days and to be a part of your maintenance plan, so you can provide your little one with all the good stuff.  More breastmilk might mean more leaked-on favorite tees, but all the joys of breastfeeding are worth it!

Lactation Love, 

Lacsnac