What is the term for the first form of milk produced in the first few days after giving birth?

The term for the first form of milk produced in the initial days after giving birth is colostrum. Colostrum is a thick, yellowish fluid that is highly nutritious and rich in antibodies, which are crucial for the newborn’s immune system. This milk is produced during the first few days postpartum and serves as a vital source of nourishment until the production of mature milk begins.

Colostrum is specifically designed to meet the needs of newborns, providing them with essential nutrients and protective factors to help prevent infections and support their overall health. The presence of immunoglobulins in colostrum is particularly beneficial as it helps to establish the newborn's immune defenses.

The other terms refer to different stages and types of milk. Formula is an artificial substitute for breast milk that can provide nutrition to infants but is not produced by the body. Foremilk refers to the milk that is released at the beginning of a feeding session, which is usually lower in fat content, while hindmilk is the milk released later during feeding, which is higher in fat. Understanding these different types of milk helps clarify the unique role that colostrum plays in early infant nutrition.