Hindmilk and Foremilk
The breasts constantly make rich, fatty milk, but that milk is stored in the breast in such a way that over time there is a separation, meaning that the milk which comes out first will be different than the milk which comes out when the breast is nearly empty.
The milk which first comes out when the breast is full is called the foremilk. Foremilk is higher in water content, water soluble vitamins and carbohydrates and protein. Often when mothers have an overabundance of milk, the baby gets too much foremilk. This can cause Baby to be gassy, have green stools, and makes them want to nurse more frequently.
Hindmilk has a higher fat content. It is safe to say that the emptier your breast is while you are nursing, the higher the fat content. Your breast will never empty completely, because it is constantly making milk. Also breasts make milk faster while your baby is actively nursing, so trying to nurse until your breast is empty is like trying to empty a stream or a river.
When you have too much milk, there are some things you can do to ensure that your baby gets enough fatty hind milk. The easiest way to do this is to nurse only on one side during a feeding, and switch to the other breast only after your baby gets hungry again, which might be up to a couple of hours. If the unused breast feels uncomfortable while you wait to empty it, you can always express some to soften your breast. If you have a toddler who is nursing, just try to get them to nurse more often, and offer your baby the breasts after your toddler has had his or her turn. This should ensure that your baby gets a higher calorie meal, is more satisfied and less fussy between feedings.
May 12th, 2008 at 11:47 am
I’m so glad to read this! I always had mothers who thought they knew everything under the sun tell me that I need to nurse both sides during feedings. It’s crazy how I just “knew” to nurse one side at a time. And I definately notice the creamier milk come in. Thank you for this!!!!