61 | When will my milk come in? Understanding the role of colostrum & early feeding decisions in supporting your milk supply.

When Will My Milk Come In? Understanding Colostrum, Milk Supply, and Delays

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