The importance of breast milk for the child and the three stages of breast milk: essential nutrients for the growth and health of your child
Every new mother faces an important decision: to breastfeed or not. Although the choice is ultimately personal, breastfeeding is highly advised. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), it reduces the likelihood of several health issues in infants, such as obesity, type 1 diabetes, asthma, sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS), among others.
Though milk production appears to be a natural process, there's a complex science behind breastfeeding. According to Pregnancy, Birth & Baby, the let-down reflex is key to breastmilk production. When a baby suckles, this reflex triggers the release of hormones prolactin and oxytocin. The World Health Organization (WHO) notes that oxytocin, often called the "love hormone," strengthens the bond between mother and child. Over time, even the sound of your baby or another baby crying can naturally activate the let-down reflex.
Breast milk goes through three distinct stages: colostrum, transitional milk, and mature milk, as noted by the American Pregnancy Association. Colostrum is produced during pregnancy and right after childbirth. Following this, transitional milk is created, which eventually evolves into mature milk. Each of these important stages offers essential vitamins and nutrients that support a baby's growth and development.
Phase 1: The Colostrum Stage
Breastfed infants are given colostrum as their initial milk. Often called "liquid gold," colostrum is packed with protein, vitamins, minerals, and antibodies that support a baby's growing immune system, as noted by the Cleveland Clinic. This special milk is rich in vitamin A, magnesium, copper, and zinc, and it typically appears yellowish, white, or clear. Occasionally, colostrum may have trace amounts of blood.
Colostrum can start to leak from your breasts even before your baby arrives, as pregnancy hormones kick in and stimulate its production between 12 and 18 weeks, according to Grow by WebMD. Many expectant mothers may notice this leakage during their second trimester.
After your baby is born, colostrum is available for about two to five days, after which your breasts transition to producing regular milk. This early milk offers numerous benefits for newborns, including enhancing gut health, providing protection against germs and infections, and assisting with their first bowel movement. Moreover, colostrum plays a vital role in the growth and development of premature infants.
The gradual release of colostrum from the breast helps a baby get the hang of breastfeeding. According to the American Pregnancy Association, a newborn's stomach is quite tiny and will expand as breastfeeding continues over the next few weeks. The 1-4 teaspoons of colostrum you produce daily will be more than enough for your little one.
Phase 2: Transitional Milk
As you and your little one get more comfortable with breastfeeding, the colostrum you initially produced transitions into transitional milk. This type of milk is produced in greater amounts than colostrum and typically starts appearing about two to five days after your baby is born, as noted by Mom Junction. Transitional milk is richer in calories, fat, and sugar compared to colostrum, and it often has a bluish-white or creamy-yellow hue. However, the color of your transitional milk may vary depending on factors like medications, diet, and more. As it evolves into mature milk, you might notice it becoming a whiter shade.
Professor Peter Hartmann, a specialist in breast milk composition at the University of Western Australia, shared with Medela that transitional milk is rich in fatty acids and lactose, which provide essential energy for infants. Additionally, this type of milk is packed with proteins and amino acids that support the growth of a baby's brain, eyes, and other vital organs.
During this period, it's common for your breasts to feel larger, swollen, and tender. This occurs as your breasts gather more blood and fluid to facilitate milk production. According to HealthyChildren, the firmness and swelling may make it challenging for your baby to latch on properly for breastfeeding. If needed, your pediatrician or a lactation consultant can assist you and your baby in finding a more comfortable breastfeeding experience during this time.
Phase 3: Fully Developed Milk
Around four weeks after giving birth, your breasts will begin to produce mature milk, as noted by Welcome Baby Care. During this phase, you might notice that your once firm and swollen breasts become softer, according to Healthline. Mature milk is thinner and less sticky compared to colostrum and is categorized into two main stages: Foremilk, which is produced at the start of a breastfeeding session, and hindmilk, which comes shortly after. Foremilk has a lower fat content and a sweeter taste than hindmilk.
The majority of the nutrients in mature milk are derived from hindmilk. Similar to colostrum and transitional milk, mature milk plays a vital role in boosting your baby's immune system and is rich in brain-boosting nutrients. According to Medela, the hormones present in mature milk help regulate your baby's appetite, potentially serving as a safeguard against excessive weight gain. Additionally, mature milk contains stem cells, which are unique cells capable of developing into various other cell types in the body.
Sometimes, women who have premature births or undergo cesarean sections may face delays in milk production. Additionally, factors such as high stress levels, diabetes, or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can also impact the ability to produce mature milk. If you're dealing with delays in milk production, reaching out to a lactation consultant can provide you with valuable support and guidance.
Conclusion
Breast milk serves as the optimal nutritional source for infants, delivering crucial nutrients that promote robust growth and immune defense. Packed with antibodies, it bolsters a baby's immune system, lowering the chances of infections and diseases. Breast milk adjusts to a baby's evolving requirements, offering an ideal mix of proteins, fats, and vitamins at every developmental phase. It also supports digestion and enhances brain development, contributing to cognitive well-being. Moreover, breastfeeding cultivates a special bonding experience, enhancing emotional health for both the mother and the baby.