Mother's milk is the main nutrition of a newborn baby. The woman’s body begins to work on the creation of milk in the third semester of pregnancy. Closer to delivery from the chest, the first discharge may appear - colostrum. This is very important for both the mother and the unborn baby, so the question “when does milk appear after childbirth” worries all young mothers.
What is colostrum?
Colostrum is a kind of harbinger of the appearance of milk. In fact, colostrum is the first milk after childbirth. It has a yellowish color and higher fat content compared to normal breast. As a rule, colostrum is produced in small portions, but this is enough for the baby to satisfy his hunger. A teaspoon of nutritious colostrum is equivalent in value to a whole glass of breast milk. It is important that the newborn immediately after birth was applied to the mother’s breast, because only in this way he will receive white blood cells and antibodies, which in the future will provide protection against viruses and bacteria.
When will milk appear?
The body of each woman has its own individual characteristics and it is difficult to determine exactly when milk appears after childbirth. Usually it comes a couple of days after giving birth, but in some cases you have to wait a week. It is impossible not to miss the appearance of milk, since at this moment the breast is greatly increased in volume, sometimes painful sensations may appear, but this is quite normal, the pain will disappear when the lactation is fully established. When milk comes after birth, a woman feels the so-called hot flashes. They appear at the moment the baby is applied to the breast. In general, the sucking process is very important for the mother herself. It is at this moment that lactation is activated and the hormone oxytocin responsible for it is produced. Oxytocin, in turn, accelerates the process of separation of the placenta from the walls of the uterus, the uterus is "cleansed". Thus, the baby receives nutrition from the mother and helps her recover faster after childbirth.
When milk appears after childbirth, there is a strong thirst in the mother. Do not be scared, it will only be the first time, just the female body is being rebuilt, because now he will have to spend most of the liquid on the formation of nutrition for the baby.
Composition of breast milk
Breast milk is a complex aqueous emulsion, which consists of fat, proteins, carbohydrates, vitamins, minerals and salts.
Fats are the most volatile part of milk. Their number corresponds to the needs of a growing baby. The fat content changes throughout the day and even during one feeding. So, at the beginning of feeding, the percentage of fat is less than at the end. That is, in the "back" milk more fat. Therefore, it is important that the baby completely sucks milk from one breast, only after that it can be applied to another. So he will receive all the most valuable.
Proteins are the main element for the growth of the body. In the first year of his life, the baby grows very quickly, and obtaining high-quality proteins is a must. In breast milk, proteins are found in the optimal amount for the baby.
The main carbohydrate in breast milk is lactose. It is also called milk sugar. When cleaved, lactose breaks down into glucose and galactose. Glucose is important as a source of energy, and galactose is involved in the formation and development of the child’s nervous system. In addition, milk contains beneficial oligosugars necessary for the nutrition of beneficial microorganisms.
When milk comes after childbirth, it is important not to express the first “front” portion, because it contains the bulk of vitamins. Milk is rich in vitamins A, D, group B. Scientists have found that children who eat breast milk rarely have a deficiency of vitamins, and in children who are weaned early, the deficiency is more common. Therefore, it is important on what day after the birth of milk, because the faster - the sooner the child will receive the first portion of useful and nutrients.
Minerals in breast milk are in an easily digestible form and are represented by micro and macro elements. Their number is fully consistent with the needs of a growing baby.
What foods increase lactation?
Young mothers ask questions to more experienced ones, and, as a rule, they are interested not only on the day after the delivery of milk, but also what products can increase lactation. To save it, to increase the quantity and quality of milk, the following products must be included in the diet:
- Protein-rich fish, meat and egg dishes.
- Porridge in combination with dried fruits and fruits (especially oat and buckwheat).
- Nuts.
- Dairy products: cheeses, sour cream, milk, cottage cheese, kefir and yogurt.
- Honey (with caution, the baby may have an allergy).
- Drinks, berry drinks, tea with milk, as well as juices.
Prohibited Products
Some foods can cause an allergic reaction in the baby, as well as disrupt normal digestion. These are such as smoked meats (including sausages), spicy dishes with a high content of spices, mayonnaise. You should refrain from red berries and fruits, as well as from sweets.
If there is no milk after childbirth
What should a young mother do if she does not have milk? The most important thing is not to panic. The body of each woman is individual, and it is very difficult to determine exactly when milk appears after childbirth. Try incorporating lactating stimulants into your diet (see list above). In no case do not be nervous, try to calm down. The lack of milk can also be discussed with the doctor, perhaps he will advise you to drink special medications.