What if my milk comes in late?

Question

This might sound like a silly question and probably has an obvious answer. What if I don’t start producing milk till a few days after baby comes? 
What are the steps taken to feed baby/help me produce? 
I really want to breastfeed but I know it can sometimes be very difficult? 
Should we be packing bottles in our hospital bag? 
Arrgh now I feel so underprepared

Answer

Actually your milk won’t come in until like 3 days after baby is born, that’s normal! You will produce colostrum which is just very small amounts but very high in fat and all your baby needs at first. My baby is 3 days old and hasn’t been latching well and lost 10% of her body weight and they put me on a feeding plan (with my input!) where I’m trying to nurse, then feeding her any small amount of breast milk I’ve pumped then supplementing with formula. It’s a long process but just talk with your nurses if they feel there’s issues and they should be very helpful!!

Answer

Hello. That’s normal, milk takes around 3 days to come in but you produce colostrum first which is a very small amount of very concentrated food and that’s what the baby will drink. You don’t need to worry about it.  See if you can get a space on a feeding course at your hospital and the midwives or doctors should show you how to feed after the baby is born :) x

Answer

Your milk won’t come in for 2-3 days after baby is born.  Mine came in almost exactly 48 hours after I pushed him out.  I never bottle fed or gave formula.  He latched and got colostrum the first few days. 
I hope there are lactation consultants where you are giving birth for support and guidance. Use your resources.

Answer

I agree with what the others said. Also, where I’m from you don’t pack bottles or a pump. If you need them the hospital provides it to you. They can also provide formula if you need it. If you aren’t sure about your hospital just call and ask.

What if my milk comes in late?

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