Why is Breast Milk Yellow? Many New Moms Get This Wrong
YOGYAKARTA - Many new mothers are surprised to see that their breast milk is not pure white. The question of why breast milk is yellow also immediately arises, and it is not uncommon to panic. In fact, the color is a very good signal.
The yellow color in breast milk is actually widely known in the medical world. This liquid is even often called liquid gold by pediatricians. Its content is much richer than regular breast milk.
As reported by the Healthline website, the yellow breast milk that comes out in the first few days after giving birth is called colostrum. In fact, this is not immature or spoiled breast milk. Quite the opposite, it is the most valuable breast milk you have ever produced.
Colostrum begins to be produced from the third trimester of pregnancy. The volume is indeed a little, but the texture is thick and the color is dark yellow. Don't miss this important phase.
Why is Breast Milk Yellow? Here's the Medical ExplanationThe yellow color in colostrum comes from the high content of beta-carotene. This substance is also what makes carrots and sweet potatoes orange. The mother's body stores it to pass directly to the baby.
In addition, colostrum contains very concentrated levels of immunoglobulin A (IgA), proteins, and antibodies. Its fat and lactose content is lower than mature breast milk. That's why it feels thicker and denser.
In addition, the mother's body knows exactly what the baby needs in the first minutes of his life. The composition of colostrum is designed specifically for the condition of newborns.
Read also: 4 Effects of Breastfeeding Interrupted by Formula Milk
Benefits of Yellow Breast Milk for Newborn BabiesColostrum works like a natural coating on the baby's intestinal wall. This is important because the newborn baby's intestines are still very sensitive to external exposure. This layer helps prevent bacteria and viruses from entering the bloodstream.
In addition, colostrum helps babies expel meconium, the first dark stool that accumulates since in the womb. This process is important to reduce the risk of jaundice in newborns.
How Long Does Yellow Breast Milk Last?Colostrum generally lasts about 2 to 5 days after giving birth. After that, breast milk will turn into transitional breast milk with a pale yellow or whitish color.
Then about two weeks after childbirth, mature breast milk begins to be produced in full. The color turns white or slightly bluish. This change is a sign that your breast milk production is developing very well.
When Should Breast Milk Color Be Wary?However, not all changes in breast milk color are normal. Breast milk that is red or pink can indicate the presence of blood, usually from a cracked nipple or broken capillaries. This condition generally heals itself in a few days.
Breast milk that is black or dark brown needs to be given more serious attention. This color is often associated with the consumption of certain drugs, such as minocycline antibiotics. Therefore, immediately consult a doctor if you find it.
Tips to Maximize Colostrum for BabiesFirst, do early initiation of breastfeeding (IMD) as soon as possible after giving birth. Skin-to-skin contact between mother and baby has been shown to help stimulate milk production faster. Don't delay just because the volume seems small.
Breastfeed your baby as often as possible in the first few days, even if it's only a few minutes at a time. The more often your baby sucks, the faster your milk production increases.
In addition, the support of your partner and family in this time has a much greater impact than you think.
Understanding why breast milk is yellow is an important resource so that you are not easily panicked in the first days of breastfeeding. Find information about maternal, infant, and other family health that is accurate and easy to understand only at VOI, a trusted digital media for your daily life.