The subcutaneous fat serves as a reserve after birth and also helps to regulate body temperature. The energy store is particularly important because milk production takes a few days to get started. The time until the mother's milk comes in varies from one woman to the next and can also depend on how labor goes. Medication or a cesarean section can impair milk production, for example.
What does the phrase "milk coming in" actually mean?
Roughly two to five days after birth (around day three on average), the breasts become larger and warmer – this signals the start of milk production. We refer to this as the mother's milk "coming in". The process can sometimes be slightly painful, because the breasts may become very sensitive to pressure, swell significantly, and feel very hot.
It is therefore no surprise that many women experience anxiety and discomfort at this time. Why does this natural process feel more like an illness? The heat does not indicate a fever: Your body ensures that more blood is circulating in your breasts, as well as an increased volume of lymphatic fluid – all important processes that allow your milk to flow.
Initially, only a few milliliters of milk are produced – the "colostrum" or "first milk". Although the quantity is modest, the nutrients are all the more valuable. You can think of it as a vitamin shot or an oral vaccination for your little one. Colostrum is full of important nutrients, antibodies, and vitamins, and is very rich in protein and fat. It builds up the immune system and gives your baby plenty of energy.
The newborn baby can feed at the breast often as it likes. Milk production is stimulated by regular sucking. After a few days, the quantity of milk increases and adjusts to your baby's needs continuously.