61 | When will my milk come in? Understanding the role of colostrum & early feeding decisions in supporting your milk supply.
Description
If you’re a new mom wondering “when will my milk come in?”, you’re not alone. Many moms worry that their milk isn’t coming fast enough, but the truth is your colostrum is already your first milk—and your milk supply naturally increases in volume over the first few days.
In this episode of The Breastfeeding With Confidence Podcast, Jaimie, International Board Certified Lactation Consultant and mom of five, explains what’s normal, what can delay milk supply, and practical ways to support your breastfeeding journey.
What You’ll Learn in This Episode
Jaimie covers:
Colostrum is your first milk and why it’s perfectly designed for your newborn
Reframing the question from “coming in” to milk increasing in volume
The typical timeline: milk volume often increases around day 3–5 postpartum
Factors that can delay milk volume, including birth interventions, separation from baby, and stress
How early supplementation or formula can delay your body’s milk production
Tips to support your supply naturally, including frequent nursing, skin-to-skin, and pumping if separated
Understanding Colostrum and Milk Volume
Your first milk, colostrum, is packed with antibodies and nutrients for your baby’s tiny tummy. Instead of waiting for “milk to come in,” it’s more accurate to think of your supply gradually increasing in volume over the first few days.
Normal Timeline vs Delays
Most moms notice milk volume increases around day 3–5, but it can take longer if:
Birth involved interventions (IV fluids, C-section, medication)
There’s separation from your baby after birth
Early formula supplementation occurs instead of frequent breastfeeding
Maternal factors like stress or certain medical conditions are present
Supporting Your Milk Supply
To encourage milk production and reduce delays:
Practice frequent skin-to-skin contact
Nurse on demand, especially in the first 48 hours
Pump or hand express if you’re separated from your baby
Avoid unnecessary early supplementation unless medically advised
Seek help early if you notice low supply or latching challenges
Encouragement for Moms
Your body is already making milk—starting with colostrum—and your supply will increase naturally. If it feels slower than expected, it doesn’t mean you’ve failed. Small adjustments and support can make a big difference.
Resources for Breastfeeding Success
For moms who want step-by-step guidance on understanding milk supply, preventing delays, and feeling confident from day one, check out Jaimie’s Breastfeeding Resource Library. It’s packed with tools, guides, and expert strategies to help you start breastfeeding successfully.
🌟BREASTFEEDING RESOURCES 🌟
FREEBIE: 5 Breastfeeding Mistakes to Avoid https://littlebearlactation.myflodesk.com/breastfeedingpodcast
Breastfeeding Resource Library (PODCAST50 to save now!) https://littlebearlactation.com/library
Get Breastfeeding Help https://littlebearlactation.com/support
Episode Timeline
00:00 – Welcome & Introduction
00:45 – Colostrum is Your First Milk
02:00 – Reframing “Coming In” vs Increasing in Volume
03:30 – Normal Timeline for Milk Supply (3–5 Days)
05:00 – Factors That Can Delay Milk Volume
06:30 – Early Supplementation & Its Impact
07:30 – Tips to Support Your Milk Supply
08:30 – Encouragement & Final Thoughts
09:00 – CTA to Resource Library
Topics Covered
When does milk come in after birth
Colostrum vs mature milk
Delayed milk supply
How to increase milk supply early
Milk coming in timeline
Breastfeeding tips first week
United States
