Milk production, also known as lactation, typically begins after childbirth, not during pregnancy. While some women may experience a slight leakage of colostrum, a thick, yellowish fluid that precedes breast milk, during the late stages of pregnancy, the actual production of breast milk usually starts a few days after delivery.
Understanding Milk Production:
- Hormonal Changes: The primary hormones responsible for milk production, prolactin and oxytocin, surge during pregnancy. However, estrogen levels are also high, which inhibits milk production until after birth.
- Colostrum: This early form of milk provides essential nutrients and antibodies to the newborn.
- Breast Milk Production: After delivery, estrogen levels decrease, allowing prolactin to stimulate milk production.
Key Points to Remember:
- Milk production typically starts after delivery.
- Some women may experience colostrum leakage during pregnancy.
- Breast milk production is primarily controlled by hormonal changes.
