How Late Can Milk Come in?

A delay when milk "comes in"
Occasionally, a mother has a health condition that may temporarily delay the large increase in milk production usually seen between 3 to 5 days after birth. In these cases, large amounts of milk are not seen until 7 to 14 days after giving birth.

What is the latest breast milk can come in?

Milk production begins around the midpoint of pregnancy. For most mothers, milk will “come in” (increase in quantity and begin the change from colostrum to mature milk) between days 2 and 5.

Why is my milk not coming in?

There are plenty of reasons for a delay. Your breast milk supply may take a little longer to come in or increase if: It was a premature birth — particularly if your baby needed to be separated from you right after the birth. You have a medical condition like diabetes or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).

James H. Sterling

James H. Sterling

Environmental Science & Climate Journalist

James Sterling reports on renewable energy developments, climate policy, ecological conservation, and green tech innovations around the globe.