The mother's first yellow thick milk should not be fed to the baby.

fact_checkWhat experts say

• infoAt birth, the breasts make a thick, yellowish milk. It is packed with nutrients and helps the baby start building protection against illness.1
• infoThere is only a small amount of this first milk at first, but it increases over the first few days. Most babies get all the nutrition they need from it.1
• infoStarting breastfeeding within the first hour after birth and feeding only breast milk for the first six months helps protect the baby from infections.2
• infoBabies who are not breastfed or are partly breastfed are more likely to get diarrhoea, pneumonia and other infections.2
• infoBreast milk is the best nutrition for most babies, including premature and sick newborns.1

lightbulbWhy people believe it

The first milk is thick, yellow and comes in small amounts. Some families think it looks dirty or old, so they throw it away without knowing it is the baby’s first and most protective food.

checklistWhat to do

• check_circleStart breastfeeding within the first hour after birth. Give only breast milk for the first six months.2
• check_circleFeed the baby often, day and night, following the baby’s hunger cues.12
• check_circleDo not give the baby water, other drinks or food in the first six months.2
• check_circleIf you are worried about your milk coming in or about breastfeeding pain, talk to a lactation consultant or your doctor or nurse.1

menu_bookSources

1. 1What to Expect While Breastfeedingcdc.govopen_in_new
2. 2Infant and young child feedingwho.intopen_in_new

Updated 28 Sep 2026