Congratulations on your new bundle of joy! Breastfeeding has always been tagged as being the “BEST” for babies. Breastmilk is specially designed for your baby. The bond that you formed from pregnancy to birth continues on to breastfeeding. Your milk is the most complete and nutritious food for your newborn. Although breastfeeding comes so naturally to moms, not everyone is as lucky. The best weapon is information. Educate yourself on the many aspects of breastfeeding.
Let us first tackle what happens right after you give birth. Do you have milk right away? Can you use your breast pump immediately? Why doesn’t any milk come out?
What is colostrum?
For the first few days after birth, your body will produce colostrum. It is also called as “pre-milk” or “practice milk”. It is often described as being yellow, sometimes clear, and thin in appearance. It is essential that your baby drinks this as it is super rich in vitamins, nutrients, and minerals to fight off infections, viruses, and bacteria. You may also notice that your breasts leaked during pregnancy with a similar substance. This is most likely to be colostrum as well. It is vital that your baby continues to nurse in order for your body to produce the next type of milk.
