How Your Body Makes Milk: From Hormones to Milk Removal

Breastfeeding is one of the most amazing things your body can do. But how exactly does milk get made? And how can you make sure you’re producing enough for your baby? Whether you’re expecting or already feeding your little one, understanding how milk production works can help you feel more confident and empowered in your breastfeeding journey.

The First Chapter: Hormones Set the Stage

Milk production begins long before your baby is born. During pregnancy, your body starts preparing the breast for feeding. Hormones like estrogen, progesterone, and especially prolactin get to work.

  • Prolactin is the hormone responsible for stimulating the milk-making cells in your breasts.

  • Estrogen and progesterone help with breast development and getting the ducts and lobules ready to produce milk—but they also block milk secretion until after birth.

Once your baby and the placenta are delivered, estrogen and progesterone levels drop quickly. That’s when prolactin takes the spotlight—and your milk starts to “come in,” usually between days 2–5 postpartum. This early milk is often called transitional milk, and it’s part of a hormonal process called lactogenesis II.

The Switch: Supply Becomes Demand-Driven

After the first few days, your body moves from hormonally driven milk production to a system that’s primarily based on supply and demand. The more milk that’s removed—either by your baby feeding or by pumping—the more your body gets the message to make more milk.

This is why frequent, effective milk removal in the early days and weeks is absolutely key to building a strong milk supply. Skipping feedings or going long stretches without nursing or pumping can signal your body to slow production.

This stage is known as lactogenesis III, and it’s all about maintenance: your body produces what your baby asks for.

What’s a “Full Supply,” Anyway?

You may be wondering, “How much milk is normal?” A full milk supply is considered to be 24–30 ounces (710–890 ml) per 24 hours by about 2 weeks postpartum. Some moms make more, and that’s okay too. If your baby is growing well, having plenty of wet and dirty diapers, and seems satisfied after feeding, chances are your supply is just fine.

It’s also important to know that milk supply naturally adjusts over time. After the first few weeks, you may notice your breasts feel softer and less full. That doesn’t mean your supply has dropped—it just means your body has found its rhythm.

What Affects Milk Production?

There are many factors that can influence how much milk you make. Here are some of the most common:

  • Ineffective latch or feeding technique – If your baby isn’t removing milk well, your body won’t be told to make more.

  • Infrequent feedings – Long gaps between feeds can slow down supply.

  • Supplementing frequently with formula – If baby fills up on formula, they nurse less—and your body makes less milk.

  • Medical conditions – Thyroid disorders, retained placenta, PCOS, and some medications can impact milk supply.

  • Stress and fatigue – While these don’t stop milk production directly, they can interfere with letdowns and feeding routines.

What You Can Do to Support Your Supply

The good news? There’s a lot you can do to help your body make the milk your baby needs.

✅ Feed early and often – Aim for 8–12 feedings per 24 hours in the first few weeks.

✅ Make sure baby has a good latch – This ensures efficient milk removal. If you’re unsure, connect with a lactation consultant for help.

✅ Avoid unnecessary supplements – If your baby needs extra milk, consider using expressed milk before formula and protect your supply by pumping.

✅ Take care of yourself – Stay hydrated, nourished, and get rest when you can. Your body needs fuel to make milk.

✅ Pump if separated – If your baby isn’t feeding directly at the breast, pump every 2–3 hours to keep the milk flowing.

Final Thoughts

Milk production is an incredible system—one that starts with hormones and continues through consistent, responsive feeding. Your body is designed to make milk, and with the right support and information, most moms can make exactly what their baby needs. If you’re ever unsure about your supply, reach out for help. You don’t have to do this alone!