FAQ
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How soon will a mother have breast milk?
Answer:
Most mothers will have colostrum within the first few hours after birth, whether they deliver vaginally or by cesarean section.
Colostrum: Available immediately after birth. It is thick, yellow, and rich in antibodies – extremely important for the newborn. Although small in volume, it is more than enough to fill the baby’s tiny stomach.
Transitional/Mature milk: Usually begins to come in around day 2 to 5 postpartum and gradually increases in volume over the next few days.
⏱ The timing of milk coming in depends on several factors:
Early and frequent breastfeeding – ideally within the first hour after birth (skin-to-skin contact strongly recommended).
Mother and baby’s health: Conditions such as significant blood loss during delivery or preterm birth may delay milk production.
Maternal stress and anxiety – emotional strain can also impact the milk let-down reflex.
What should a mother do if her milk hasn’t come in yet?
Answer:
Breast milk usually comes in within 2 to 5 days after birth, and it’s normal not to have a large amount in the first few days. However, the following actions can help stimulate earlier and greater milk production:
1. Breastfeed early and frequently
Start breastfeeding within the first hour after birth, if possible.
Feed the baby at least 8–12 times every 24 hours, including at night.
Let the baby nurse on demand, without restricting feeding time.
2. Do skin-to-skin contact
Keep the baby in skin-to-skin contact with the mother as often as possible.
This stimulates oxytocin, a hormone that helps milk let-down.
3. Check latch and breastfeeding position
A proper latch helps the baby feed efficiently and prevents nipple pain.
Ask a healthcare provider for help with positioning and latching if needed.
4. Express milk regularly if baby doesn’t latch well
If the baby is not nursing strongly, express milk by hand or with a breast pump every 2–3 hours to stimulate milk production.
Collect and store the colostrum to feed the baby with a spoon or cup.
5. Rest well and eat enough
The mother should get adequate rest, eat a balanced diet, and drink plenty of fluids.
Avoid stress, as anxiety can interfere with milk production.
🔔 When to seek help?
If there is little or no milk by day 5–7, the mother should consult a lactation consultant, doctor, or maternity nurse for support and guidance.
Do antibiotics used during surgery affect breast milk? Can mothers continue breastfeeding?
Answer:
No. Most antibiotics used during and after surgery are safe and do not affect the development of the newborn. Mothers can continue breastfeeding as usual. In special cases, healthcare providers will offer specific guidance if temporary weaning or an alternative medication is needed.
Is breast milk nutritious enough for babies?
Answer:
Yes. Breast milk provides all the essential nutrients a baby needs, especially during the first 6 months of life. A mother’s body naturally adjusts the composition of milk to match the baby’s developmental needs.
If a mother eats very little, will her breast milk be thin or lack nutrients?
Answer:
Not necessarily. Even when a mother’s diet is not fully adequate, her body still prioritizes producing high-quality milk for the baby. However, the mother should take care of herself to maintain her health and have enough energy to care for her child.
Should a mother avoid certain foods after a cesarean section?
Answer:
No. It’s important to provide adequate nutrition to help the mother recover after surgery. However, it’s advisable to choose foods that are easy to digest and suited to her preferences.
Should a baby be breastfed on a schedule or on demand?
Answer:
Feeding on demand is the best approach, especially during the first 6 months. The baby will naturally regulate the amount and timing of feedings. There is no need to force feedings at fixed clock times.
How do you know if a baby is getting enough breast milk?
Answer:
The baby urinates at least 6 times per day (after day 5).
The baby gains weight steadily after the first week.
The baby nurses actively and sleeps well after feeding.
How long should a baby be breastfed?
Answer:
Exclusively breastfeed for at least the first 6 months.
After that, continue breastfeeding up to 24 months or longer if both mother and baby are willing.
Should a mother stop breastfeeding if she has a cold or the flu?
Answer:
No, there’s no need to stop. Breast milk remains safe and even contains antibodies that help protect the baby against viruses. The mother should wear a mask, wash her hands thoroughly, and get plenty of rest.
Can a mother continue breastfeeding after returning to work?
Answer:
Absolutely. A mother can:
Express and store breast milk properly so the caregiver can bottle-feed the baby.
Breastfeed directly in the morning, evening, and on weekends.
Prepare storage containers and communicate with the caregiver about feeding methods.
When should formula be introduced?
Answer:
Only when recommended by a doctor (for example: if the baby is not gaining weight despite proper breastfeeding, or if the mother needs to temporarily stop breastfeeding due to medical treatment). Supporting and increasing breast milk production should be the first priority before using formula.
What is colostrum, and why is it important?
Answer:
Colostrum is the first milk produced during the first 2–3 days after birth. It is thick and yellow, and rich in antibodies that boost the baby’s immune system and help protect against infections.
Is breast milk nutritious enough for babies?
Answer:
Yes. Breast milk provides all the essential nutrients, fluids, and antibodies a baby needs during the first 6 months of life.
Does a baby need extra water in addition to breast milk?
Answer:
No. Breast milk provides all the essential nutrients, fluids, and antibodies a baby needs during the first 6 months of life.
Is it true that breast milk is watery and not as good as formula?
Answer:
Not true. Breast milk has an ideal composition for babies, is easier to digest than formula, and naturally adapts to the baby’s developmental needs.
Does breast milk change based on the baby’s age and gender?
Answer:
Yes. Research shows that breast milk can slightly vary in composition depending on the baby’s age, gender, and health condition.
Should a mother express breast milk?
Answer:
Yes. Expressing milk is helpful when the mother is away from the baby, has blocked milk ducts, or wants to maintain milk supply. Milk can be expressed by hand or with a breast pump.
How long can frozen breast milk be stored?
Answer:
In a freezer at –18°C (0°F), breast milk can be stored for up to 6 months. Once thawed, it should be used within 24 hours if kept refrigerated and should not be reheated multiple times.
What should a mother do if she has blocked milk ducts?
Answer:
Breastfeed more often, massage the breast, apply warm compresses before feeding, and express any remaining milk. If there is a fever, she should see a doctor.
Does breastfeeding make the baby overly attached to the mother?
Answer:
Breastfeeding strengthens emotional bonding but does not make the baby overly dependent. Close contact is essential at this stage for healthy emotional development.
What if family members don’t support breastfeeding?
Answer:
The mother should be provided with accurate information and may seek help from a lactation consultant or healthcare professional to help the family understand the benefits of breastfeeding.
Is it inappropriate to breastfeed in public?
Answer:
No. Breastfeeding is a natural act and should be respected by society. Mothers may use a cover if they prefer more privacy.
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