I read about foremilk/hindmilk imbalance on the Internet, and I’m worried that I have it. What should I do? 

Oy, Dr. Google! The Internet can be a great resource for quick answers and support on a plethora of topics. Yet sometimes, it’s misleading.

Information online about foremilk/hindmilk imbalance tends to trick a mother into thinking she has the condition when, in fact, it’s a very rare condition, according to a local lactation consultant I spoke with. She said not only is it a very rare condition but it presents itself with other symptoms like failure to thrive and green, frothy bowel movements.

Seek a Professional

The best way to rule out an imbalance is to seek the help of a professional. A board-certified lactation consultant can help you find out if you have it and address your breastfeeding concerns even if you don’t. 

It’s important, too, to understand that a lactating mother does not make two kinds of milk. Instead, the ratio of fats in her milk increases throughout the duration of a feeding. The milk starts thinner, higher in volume, and more thirst quenching. Then, as the feeding progresses, the volume decreases, and the fat content increases. There isn’t a specific time when the milk changes from foremilk to hindmilk. Research shows that each new swallow the baby takes has more fat in it than the previous swallow.

While we celebrate the “hindmilk” for the weight gain it provides, the earlier “foremilk” hydrates and provides important water-soluble vitamins our babies need. In other words, it’s important, too!!

How can we help our babies get enough of the fat in their milk?

La Leche League International says to finish the first breast first. That means feed your baby on the first breast until it softens or feels like jello. Then, burp and offer the second breast if baby is still hungry. 

Bon appetite.