When Does Breast Milk Start to Flow? A Guide to the Stages of Milk Production from Pregnancy to Postpartum

You might be wondering, “When does breast milk actually start to come in?” This question often crosses the minds of new mothers, especially in the first few days after giving birth. When your little one seems hungry but your milk hasn’t started flowing, it’s natural to feel anxious. Is this normal? Is your body functioning as it should?

Don’t worry—you’re not alone. The timing of milk production varies for every mother, depending on physical condition, hormonal balance, and the type of delivery.

This article will help you understand the natural stages of milk production, the reasons your milk might not have come in yet, and effective ways to stimulate it early—based on medical guidance and real experiences from breastfeeding mothers.

By understanding this process, you’ll not only feel more at ease but also gain the confidence to navigate your breastfeeding journey with trust in your body’s natural rhythm.

When Does Breast Milk Come In?

For mothers wondering, “When does breast milk start to come in?” — here’s a natural breakdown of the stages of milk production you should know:

1. During Pregnancy (Colostrum Stage)

Did you know that milk production actually begins as early as the second trimester? Your body starts producing colostrum, a thick yellow fluid rich in antibodies and essential nutrients for your baby.

Some mothers may notice a small amount of colostrum leaking before birth, while others don’t see any until after delivery — both are completely normal.

2. The First Day After Birth

On the first day, colostrum is released in small amounts. Even just a few drops are enough — this “liquid gold” is packed with immunoglobulins, proteins, and antibacterial agents that protect your newborn in their earliest days.

It’s thick, golden-yellow, and often referred to as the baby’s first superfood.

3. Days 3–5: Transitional Milk

Around day three to five, hormones like prolactin and oxytocin become more active. Your milk becomes thinner and increases in volume. The color gradually turns whiter — this is the transitional milk stage, which bridges the shift from colostrum to mature milk.

4. After Day 7: Mature Milk

By the end of the first week, mature milk begins to flow more abundantly. It’s whiter, thinner, and nutritionally complete — containing balanced levels of proteins, healthy fats, and carbohydrates tailored to your baby’s growth and development.

When Does Breast Milk Normally Come In After Birth?

In general, breast milk begins to come in within 1 to 5 days after childbirth. Mothers who deliver vaginally and practice Early Initiation of Breastfeeding (EIBF) often experience faster milk production.

However, for mothers who undergo cesarean delivery, give birth to premature babies, or experience stress, the onset of milk production may be slightly delayed. This is completely normal, as the body needs time to adjust hormonally and physically after birth. The most important thing is to keep stimulating milk production—either by direct breastfeeding or pumping regularly—to encourage a steady and healthy milk supply.

Why Does Breast Milk Sometimes Not Come Out or Appear in Small Amounts at First?

Source: Freepik

Several factors can influence the slow production of breast milk, including:

• Unstable hormones: especially prolactin and oxytocin, which play key roles in milk production and release.

• Lack of nipple stimulation: the more frequently your baby nurses, the faster your body will produce milk.

• Fatigue and emotional stress: these conditions can inhibit the release of oxytocin.

• Certain medical conditions such as PCOS, thyroid disorders, or diabetes may also have an impact.

• Delayed breastfeeding after birth: skipping immediate skin-to-skin contact or early initiation of breastfeeding (IMD) can slow down the “let-down reflex,” which triggers milk flow.

The good news is that all of these conditions can be managed with consistent stimulation and sufficient emotional support. There’s no need to worry, Mama — your body can catch up naturally with time and care.

How to Stimulate Breast Milk Production Early

To help your breast milk flow more quickly, here are some steps you can take:

1. Initiate breastfeeding (IMD) immediately after birth. The first skin-to-skin contact between you and your baby stimulates the release of the hormone oxytocin.

2. Breastfeed frequently, even when milk hasn’t come in fully yet. Your baby’s sucking sends signals to your body to produce more milk.

3. Practice skin-to-skin contact, which strengthens the emotional bond and helps trigger the baby’s natural sucking reflex.

4. Massage your breasts and apply a warm compress before feeding to help improve milk flow.

5. Eat nutritious foods and stay well-hydrated, such as consuming leafy greens, almonds, oats, and drinking at least 2–3 liters of water per day.

6. Get enough rest and emotional support. A calm and happy mother tends to produce milk more easily.

If Breast Milk Hasn’t Come In Yet, Should You Give Formula?

Breast milk remains the best source of nutrition for your baby — even in the form of colostrum. If your milk hasn’t come in fully, try pumping regularly to help stimulate production.

If supplementation becomes necessary, choose a bottle with a nipple that closely resembles the mother’s breast to prevent nipple confusion when your baby returns to direct breastfeeding.

Also read: 6 Signs of Low Breast Milk Supply — and Effective Ways to Boost It

Hegen: The Perfect Breastfeeding Companion from Day One

Source: Hegen

Hegen: The Perfect Companion for Your Breastfeeding Journey from Day One

• Hegen bottles are designed with teats that closely resemble a mother’s nipple, helping babies adapt comfortably without experiencing nipple confusion.

• The steady milk flow prevents choking and supports your baby’s natural feeding rhythm.

• It can be used directly for feeding after pumping without transferring milk to another container—practical and hygienic.

• Made from safe, BPA-free PPSU material, it is heat-resistant and easy to clean.

With its ergonomic design and integrated storage system, Hegen is more than just a bottle—it’s part of a complete breastfeeding ecosystem that helps mothers nurse with ease and confidence.

Also read: Here Are 10 Foods for Breastfeeding Moms to Help Babies Sleep Better — Have You Tried Them Yet?

Breast Milk Production Takes Time — Don’t Worry, You’re Not Alone, Mom

Every mother’s breastfeeding journey is unique. Some experience a smooth start, while others need more time — and that’s perfectly okay. What truly matters is patience and consistency.

Breast milk production isn’t a race to see who produces the fastest; it’s about how you and your baby learn and grow together. With the right stimulation, emotional support, and comfortable breastfeeding tools like Hegen, the process becomes far more enjoyable.

If you’re waiting for your milk to come in or planning to start expressing breast milk safely, Hegen is here to support you from day one. Designed to mimic the natural breastfeeding experience, Hegen’s bottles and teats ensure your little one stays comfortable while you remain confident.

Discover Hegen’s complete range of products and begin your breastfeeding journey with comfort and peace of mind.