Understanding Lactation: How Breast Milk is Produced in the Body

Inside the breast, there are various clusters of cells like grapes, which are called alveoli. Milk is produced inside it. When milk is produced, it enters the milk ducts through the alveoli. The ducts expel the milk through the breast. Keep in mind that breast size does not affect the ability to breastfeed. Whether the breast size is small or large, milk is produced in the same quantity and quality according to the child's need.

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When the baby starts breastfeeding after delivery, a message reaches the mother's brain. After this signal, the brain gives a signal to release prolactin and oxytocin hormones. Milk is produced in the alveoli due to the prolactin hormone and oxytocin causes the muscles present around the alveoli to expel the milk from the milk ducts. When the milk comes out of the breasts, it is called the let-down reflex. Apart from feeding the baby, let-down reflexes can also occur due to other reasons. Let-down reflex can also occur when the baby is crying, or the mother looks at the baby or thinks about him. This can also happen when it is time to breastfeed the baby.

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The baby can also help in producing milk in the breasts. The body produces milk according to the amount of milk the baby drinks. The body produces more breast milk if the baby is breastfed more for a few days or weeks after delivery. The quantity of milk can be more or less according to the child's needs. Whenever the baby breastfeeds, the body gets a signal that the baby needs milk for the next feeding.

(Read more -How and when to stop breastfeeding your baby)

The first thick milk that comes out immediately after the birth of the child is dark yellow in color. It is also called colostrum or 'liquid gold' because it is most important for the child. Colostrum is rich in nutrition and antibodies. It protects the child from infection. Colostrum helps the digestive system of the child to develop and function properly.

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Transitional milk is formed when mature breast milk gradually replaces colostrum. Women can make transitional milk from the first week to the second week of the child's delivery. During this time, warmth and heaviness is felt in the breast. Along with this, the color of the milk changes from light blue to white. At this time, breast milk changes according to the needs of the child. Breastfeeding the baby and expressing the extra milk improves milk production.

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Mature milk starts forming 10-15 days after the birth of the baby. Every phase of breast milk is full of nutrients that the baby needs. The fat present in mature milk keeps changing according to the baby's feed. The baby should always be fed from one breast first. The second breast should be fed only after the first breast is empty. This gives the baby the right amount of nutrients.

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