The timing of the establishment of a stable milk supply involves a complex interplay of hormonal and physiological processes following childbirth. Lactation is not an immediate event but rather a gradual transition, shifting from hormonally driven milk production to a supply that is largely determined by infant demand. This regulatory shift typically occurs several days to weeks postpartum.
This transition is crucial for ensuring the newborn receives adequate nutrition and establishes a healthy gut microbiome. Before the mature milk comes in, colostrum provides vital antibodies and immune factors. The subsequent transition to increased milk volume, driven by infant suckling and milk removal, supports optimal growth and development. Disruptions to this process can lead to insufficient milk supply or engorgement, highlighting the importance of understanding and supporting this regulatory phase.