Breast milk is an all-natural food for babies, one that has been provided by a woman’s body since the beginning of time. When a woman becomes pregnant, the milk glands in her breasts begin the work of producing breast milk. When actually does your body start producing breast milk? It is also important to know the right techniques in breastfeeding your baby.

When do You Start Producing Breast Milk?

Many women wonder just when they start producing breast milk for their baby. This amazing process starts almost as soon as your body realizes it’s pregnant.

1. Production Starts During Pregnancy

One of the earliest signs of pregnancy is tender breasts that might feel larger and don’t fit into your normal bra cups as well. This is a sign that your body is preparing to produce breast milk. You might even notice these signs before your positive pregnancy test.

You will also notice that your nipples and areolas get darker. You might notice little bumps around your areolas. These are known as Montgomery’s tubercles. They will secrete oils that help your nipples stay supple during breastfeeding, so you don’t feel any pain or soreness.

2. Production Heats up After Giving Birth

Once you give birth, your body sends signals that send breast milk production into overdrive. You will start to feel the surge of milk within two or three days of giving birth. If you’re a first-time mother, it might take longer than it will for someone who has already had a baby. During those first days, your breasts will be much heavier and firmer, and might even be a little painful. If you nurse very frequently in those first few days, the discomfort will ease.

When Can You Start Breastfeeding Your Baby?

You can jump to breastfeeding as soon as your baby is born. In fact, many mothers will hold their newborn to their chest within minutes of birth, and sometimes the baby will latch on immediately. The first milk your baby gets is called colostrum, and it is full of fat, protein and important antibodies that strengthen your baby’s immune system. This is present from the start, and the breast milk will come in within a few days after the colostrum does.

How to Breast Feed Your Baby

Breastfeeding is definitely recommended for new moms and babies. It’s good for them, and besides that, it’s good for you, too. However, for such a natural process, it’s not always easy to get it right! Don’t be afraid to ask a lactation specialist for assistance.

This following video can help you understand how to breastfeed your baby. Keep in mind that it sometimes takes time to get it right, so don’t get discouraged if it isn’t comfortable during the first few days. You will eventually figure it out.