If you’ve noticed something leaking from your nipples during pregnancy, the first thing to know is this: you haven’t done anything wrong, and it’s completely normal.
It can come as a real shock the first time it happens, especially if nobody warned you about it. So here’s everything you need to know, straight from our Dearbump midwives and backed by NHS guidance.
What is it?
What you’re seeing is colostrum, your baby’s very first milk. It’s thick, sometimes yellowish or clear, and packed with the nutrients and antibodies your newborn will need in their very first hours of life.
According to NHS guidance, your breasts can start producing colostrum from around 16 weeks of pregnancy. Some people notice leaking from that point onwards, others don’t notice anything at all during pregnancy. Both are completely normal.
Why is it leaking before the baby arrives?
Your body is preparing. As your pregnancy progresses, rising hormone levels signal to your breasts to start producing colostrum, ready for when your baby arrives. Leaking a little of it is simply your body doing what it’s designed to do.
Warmth can also trigger it. A warm shower, a bath, or even just feeling relaxed can cause a small amount to leak out. It doesn’t mean anything is wrong.
What should I do?
If leaking is bothering you, a few small things help.
You don’t have to buy a nursing bra straight away. A fitted camisole, tank top, or tube top works just as well. You can slip disposable or washable cloth breast pads inside to absorb any leaking and keep you comfortable throughout the day.
One important thing to avoid: do not pump or hand express the milk. Stimulating your nipples before birth can trigger contractions, which you want to avoid at this stage of pregnancy. This is advice our midwives give every time this question comes up in the app.
When should I speak to my doctor?
Most leaking during pregnancy is nothing to worry about. However, there are a couple of things to watch for.
If your colostrum changes colour and becomes green or brown, get it checked by your doctor. If your breasts become very painful rather than just a little tender, it’s worth getting assessed too.
The NHS also notes that occasionally some women experience blood leaking from the nipples during pregnancy, caused by increased blood vessels. While this can be normal, it should always be checked by your midwife or GP.
Outside of these things, leaking colostrum is simply a sign that your body is preparing for your baby. It’s a good thing.
Got more questions about what’s happening to your body?
Every week our midwives answer the questions mums are actually asking.Got a question of your own? Our midwives are available right inside the Dearbump app, ready to answer it directly.