{"id":28477,"date":"2023-11-09T18:00:22","date_gmt":"2023-11-09T18:00:22","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.may.app\/?p=28477"},"modified":"2025-12-01T13:26:42","modified_gmt":"2025-12-01T13:26:42","slug":"how-does-milk-coming-work","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.may.app\/en\/blog\/pregnancy\/how-does-milk-coming-work\/","title":{"rendered":"How does milk coming work?"},"content":{"rendered":"

At the time of childbirth, your body naturally prepares itself for breastfeeding (even if you do not wish to breastfeed). A few days later, the milk coming in occurs. What is it and how can you manage it? May explains.<\/span><\/p>\n

What is milk coming in?<\/h2>\n

\u201cMilk coming in\u201d refers to when milk production rapidly increases in the breasts<\/strong>. It generally occurs between the second and third day after childbirth.<\/span><\/p>\n

Following the expulsion of the placenta, pregnancy hormones (progesterone and placental lactogenic hormone), which until then inhibited milk production, drop. Milk production then begins under the action of two hormones: prolactin and oxytocin<\/strong>. Colostrum (the first yellow or orange milk produced from mid-pregnancy) then gives way to what is known as transitional milk.<\/span><\/p>\n

Good to know: milk coming in may be delayed after a cesarean section, in women with obesity, in women with diabetes, or after a long and difficult birth.<\/span><\/p>\n

How long does milk coming in last?<\/h2>\n

Without breast stimulation, milk coming in stops after two weeks<\/strong>.<\/span><\/p>\n

Milk coming in can be uncomfortable for the mother. The discomfort associated with this phenomenon can last around 24 hours<\/strong>, depending on the woman. Don\u2019t worry\u2014if you follow our tips to relieve it and your baby nurses regularly, these discomforts will quickly diminish. We recommend continuing your reading to discover our tips.<\/span><\/p>\n

How can I increase my breast milk supply?<\/h2>\n

Breast milk production depends on the stimulation of your breasts. The rule is simple: the more they are stimulated, the more milk you will produce! This is why, especially at the beginning, it is recommended to breastfeed your baby frequently<\/strong> as soon as you notice signs of wakefulness (bringing hands to the mouth, moving, opening the mouth\u2026), without schedules and without limiting the number or duration of feedings. You can also pump your milk with a breast pump.<\/span><\/p>\n

Your baby\u2019s position at the breast is also important for milk production: make sure you are in a comfortable position<\/strong> and that your baby\u2019s mouth is wide open (covering the nipple and a large part of the areola). Their head should be slightly tilted back, lips flanged, chin touching the breast, nose clear, tongue cupped under the nipple, and the belly facing your body (alignment of ear, shoulder, hip).<\/span><\/p>\n

\u2757Be careful not to place your hand behind your baby\u2019s head when offering the breast. Otherwise, the baby may reflexively push against your hand and pull on the breast.<\/span><\/p>\n

Good to know: breast size does not determine the ability to produce or store milk.<\/span><\/p>\n

What discomforts may be associated with breastfeeding?<\/h2>\n

Breastfeeding may lead to certain discomforts. Milk coming in is part of this, as it can be uncomfortable: the breasts are full<\/strong>, and tingling or prickling sensations may appear. Other mild to more significant issues may occur\u2014here are the most common breastfeeding problems:<\/span><\/p>\n

Latching issues due to breast engorgement (breasts are too full)<\/h3>\n