Between the third to sixth day, you will find that your breasts start to feel a lot fuller than they did when you first started breastfeeding on the first day. This is when your breast milk starts coming in. This is also a sign that your baby is breastfeeding well enough to establish a good supply of milk. It is quite normal for your breasts to feel full before a feed and you will also be able to feel your baby drain the milk from your breasts as she feeds. Your breasts should feel significantly softer at the end of the feed.

When your milk first comes in, it is not uncommon for your breasts to be slightly engorged as your body adjusts to the demands of your little one. However, you would want to be vigilant at this time and be careful to empty your breasts well in order to prevent your breasts from becoming painfully engorged. If your baby is not drinking enough to empty your breasts, it is advisable to pump out the excess to prevent blocked ducts and severe engorgement. You will know that you are engorged if your breasts are hard, tight and extremely sensitive to touch. Emptying your breasts can also be a challenge if your breasts are very engorged. It is advisable to take a warm shower or to use a warm pack and massage your breasts prior to nursing or pumping to encourage the flow of milk.

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