Breastmilk is often referred to as “liquid gold”, but not for its colors. Rather for its numerous health benefits and nutritional value. While many assumed that breastmilk is always white, its shades can vary. These variations in color can actually disclose important information about the composition and condition of the milk, or even about your general health. So, what does that color mean? Let’s find out.
Light Yellow – Colostrum
If you’ve just started breastfeeding or pumping, you must have noticed that your milk is yellowish or golden. That is called colostrum and it changes within a couple of days into mature and whiter milk. Colostrum is rich in antibodies, proteins, vitamins, and minerals, providing vital nutrition and immune protection for newborns.
White – Mature Milk
As breastfeeding or pumping progresses, the color of breastmilk typically transitions to a creamy white shade. This mature milk is rich in fats, lactose, and essential nutrients, supporting the healthy growth and development of the baby.
Light Blue – Early Pumping
This bluish tint might not be something you’ve seen if you breastfeed. But if you’re pumping milk, especially at the beginning of a pumping session, you may have noticed a bluish shade. Let us put your mind at east, that is just the separation of the milk’s fat content. As you continue to pump, the milk’s color should return to its natural white shade.
Greenish – High-Greens Diet
Breastmilk can take on a greenish tint if you consume a significant amount of green-colored foods or beverages. The presence of chlorophyll-rich foods such as spinach or kale, can cause this color variation. Though surprising, we can assure you that it’s perfectly safe and harmless.
Pinkish – Presence of Blood
If you notice a pinkish color in your breastmilk (mostly if you’re pumping, otherwise, you might not notice at all), it may indicate the presence of blood. This can occur if you’ve been wounded. While it can be alarming, it’s usually temporary. Nonetheless, it’s essential that you consult a healthcare specialist to determine the cause.
Yellow-Greenish – Illness or Antibacterial Properties
A yellow-greenish shade of breastmilk can be an indicator that either the mother or the baby is unwell. When the body fights an infection, breastmilk can become infused with additional antioxidants and antibodies, resulting in this color variation. This change helps provide the baby with an immune boost aiding in their recovery from illness.
Red – Seek Medical Attention
Unlike the pinkish hue, if your breastmilk turns red, you should immediately stop breastfeeding or pumping and seek medical attention. This color suggests significant bleeding and requires a thorough medical examination.
The color of your breastmilk can provide valuable insights. Of course, if you’re breastfeeding you might not have seen the color at all, but if you’re pumping, you’ll notice these colors. Some are completely harmless, while other warrant attention and medical consultation. Understanding what these colors mean can make a substantial difference to you and your baby’s health!
