When Do You Start Leaking Colostrum?

March 21, 2022 Stacey Stewart

You might be surprised to find a few drops of liquid on your bra during pregnancy.

You might be worried that something’s wrong. Is leaking milk during pregnancy normal?

Don’t worry, mama… it’s just colostrum (the first milk your body produces), and leaking it during pregnancy is actually quite common!

(this post may contain affiliate links)

It’s a GREAT idea to take a simple and affordable breastfeeding class. Breastfeeding is something you need to LEARN to do. The Ultimate Breastfeeding Class is on-demand and perfect for new moms.

When Do You Start Leaking Colostrum?

You body starts producing colostrum in the 2nd semester of pregnancy – normally around the 16-22nd week mark.

While you probably won’t start leaking right away, you may begin leaking colostrum in your 3rd trimester as you get closer to your due date. It’s most common in the final weeks of pregnancy.

Colostrum leaks occasionally happen during pregnancy because prolactin, the hormone responsible for milk production, increases in late pregnancy so your body will be ready to breastfeed.

To avoid any mortifying wet spots, you’ll need some breast pads. We always recommend THESE because they’re reusable, eco-friendly, and will save you a fortune compared to disposable ones.

What If I Don’t Ever Start Leaking Colostrum?

Some women never leak colostrum at all. That’s perfectly normal too and nothing to worry about.

Whether you leak a little colostrum during pregnancy, or never at all… it’s all normal.

If you do start to leak a little, just let your healthcare provider know so they can add it to your chart.

Did you know?

Colostrum is often referred to as “liquid gold.” It’s the first milk you produce and while it’s small in volume, it’s mighty in its benefits! It is antibody-rich, high-protein and is the perfect first food for your newborn’s tiny tummy. It has everything your baby needs for the first few days postpartum until your colostrum begins to transition to mature milk. (also known as when your milk “comes in”, which usually happens around days 2-5 postpartum)

Our 3 FAV Breastfeeding Products

🌛 1. This nursing bra is the absolute BEST for breastfeeding at night. It’s super comfortable and made of the softest material ever. You’ll want to wear it forever to sleep in, even after you’re done breastfeeding.

💪 2. Boost supply and tone up postpartum. Milk Dust is protein powder made just for breastfeeding moms. It nourishes and tones postpartum bodies (and contains milk boosting ingredients too!) Get 10% off Milk Dust using the code MILKOLOGY at checkout

🤱 3. If your nipples are sore, these are an absolute lifesaver. They’re super cheap, can be worn for multiple days (perfect when you’re trying to get a good latch), and are soooo soothing.