As a mother, you will come across the terms “hindmilk” and “foremilk. “When my twin children were initially born, I had never heard of these two words. But I quickly became aware of them. I’ll explain the definitions of foremilk and hindmilk simply here.

Foremilk is essentially the first milk that a baby receives during breastfeeding at the beginning of a nursing session. This milk contains a higher amount of water and a higher proportion of milk carbohydrate (Lactose), with a small amount of fat.

On the other hand, hindmilk is the milk that a baby receives towards the end of a nursing session. This milk contains a higher amount of fat, while water and lactose remain at lower levels. It is thicker in consistency compared to foremilk. 

Both types of milk are equally important for a baby. It’s crucial to ensure that a baby receives both types of milk in the proper proportion during a nursing session.

How long does it take for hindmilk to start coming?   

It’s difficult to determine exactly how long it takes for foremilk to transition into hindmilk. However, generally, after 5-7 minutes of nursing, hindmilk starts to be produced, and this continues for about 20-25 minutes.

What is foremilk and hindmilk imbalance?

Foremilk and hindmilk imbalance, also known as Lactose overload, occurs when a baby consistently receives too much watery milk compared to the milk containing fat. This imbalance can lead to issues such as frequent hunger, gas problems, and issues with physical development.

There is some biological description about this topic but I try to make things as simple as possible for you to grasp.

How do you recognize a baby suffering from lactose overload?

• Start by looking at the color of the baby’s stool. It could be greenish or foamy poop.
• They may become more cranky and cry frequently due to gas in the intestines, caused by stomach discomfort.
• Physical development problems may also arise due to a lack of nutritious hindmilk.

What could be the reasons for lactose overload?

• If a mom has an oversupply issue of breastmilk;
• If a mom frequently changes her breast during breastfeeding ; or
• If a mom takes too long to feed the baby, causing foremilk takes time to build up again.

How can you fix the lactose overload problem?

If your baby doesn’t show symptoms of lactose overload, there’s no need to worry. That means your baby is absolutely getting the milk that he needs. However, if your baby does experience this issue, there are several techniques that can help.

If you suspect your baby has lactose overload, it’s best to consult a pediatrician. These are some methods that can assist in fixing the problem. Your pediatrician may also suggest taking these steps.

• Offer more frequent feedings: Nursing more frequently can prevent an overabundance of foremilk. Thus the building process of the foremilk takes less time and the infant receives the hindmilk. If you take a long time to feed your baby, watery foremilk builds up again and the baby begins to feed that milk once again.
• Avoid switching breasts frequently: Ensure one breast is fully drained before offering the other. Generally, a mom should feed her baby from one breast for about 20-25 minutes. If a baby is being breastfed for only 7-10 minutes, continue feeding from the same breast. After 20-25 minutes, you can then switch to the other breast.
• Pumping the milk before offering feeding: If a mom has an oversupply issue, she can pump some breast milk before feeding her baby so that the baby gets the right proportion of foremilk and hindmilk.
• Check your feeding position and attachment: Feeding attachment and position are crucial for successful breastfeeding. If the baby does not remain in the right position, change the feeding position. If you suffer from an oversupply issue, try the laid-back position to feed your baby.
  • Let your baby take as much time as she wants: Allow your baby to feed for as long as they want. The time varies from one baby to another. Generally, a newborn baby takes a longer time (sometimes up to 1 hour) to satisfy themselves.

Actually, Lactose overload is not usually common while breastfeeding. If you face such issues, you do not need to worry; they can be solved easily. And of course, whatever you read or see in a blog, always consult your baby’s pediatrician whenever your baby shows unexpected symptoms.