Approximately how many days after delivery do glands begin to secrete milk?

Milk production in the postpartum period is a result of hormonal changes that occur after childbirth. Approximately 2 to 3 days following delivery, the body begins to transition from producing colostrum, the first form of milk, to more mature breast milk. This change is primarily driven by the hormone prolactin, which stimulates the mammary glands to produce milk in response to the baby's suckling.

On average, by around 3 days post-delivery, many mothers start to experience an increase in milk supply as their bodies adjust to the demands of breastfeeding. This is a crucial period for both mother and infant, as the baby begins to receive the necessary nutrients and antibodies that colostrum provides before the mature milk comes in fully.

It's also worth noting that while some women may begin to produce milk as early as 2 days after delivery, the average timeframe is typically around 3 days, making this stage a vital aspect of postpartum care and infant nutrition.