41 weeks pg - should I already have milk?

[ifigoup]

I'm 41+5 and have been recommended nipple stimulation to try to get things going so I can avoid a medical induction. I already had an electric breastpump so have been using that. It's causing cramps which I see as a good sign!

However, I noticed nothing in the way of colostrum is being produced from either side. Should it be by now? I'm a bit worried that this doesn't bode well for being able to breastfeed successfully.

No, not necessarily. Even after the baby is born a) colostrum is literally drops at s time; I was syringing 2-3ml for DS and the MW commented "oh you've got LOADS there" and b) expressing is never a reliable means of seeing how much milk you have.

Panic not!

I didn't before either of mine were born and breastfed them both until they were 11 months
Don't worry about your milk. One step at a time is my mantra for breastfeeding. Just focus on that day's feeding and no more!
So today focus on the labour and the baby - the rest will follow
Good luck

Don't worry, I didn't have any colostrum before delivery, and then went on to bf my DD up to 15 months with loads of milk. With regards to breastfeeding, just relax and take it easy, and keep putting the baby to the boob, and you will figure it out together. Honestly think there's way too much stress and hype around breastfeeding and although it's meant to encourage women to breastfeed, all the talk makes many nervous! you will be fine, just focus on getting your little one out for now, and breastfeeding will come naturally!

I was the max overdue (minutes from C section, dh was scrubbed up) and still had no sign of milk. I remember it bothered me also! Then baby came, latched on straight away and I had a lovely supply of colostrum at the ready just like that, plus milk after (though I had to switch within weeks to ff but it was nothing to do with my milk supply or bf difficulties)

Try not to worry, I'm sure you will be just fine enjoy your little one soon to arrive!

Milk production is largely kicked off after the placenta is delivered, so whether you've gone past your EDD is not particularly relevant - this gives more info (and is a great site in general):

kellymom.com/bf/got-milk/basics/milkproduction/#endocrinecontrol

1st pregnancy I had milk about 20weeks, 2nd pg nothing til delivery but no difference in bf. Don't know why but sure you'll be fine!

Thanks for your stories, everyone - I am feeling reassured!

Your milk won't come in till after the baby has been born, anywhere from 2-5 days later I think. Colostrum is produced in such tiny amounts you won't notice it in a breast pump - this I know as I had to hand express after DC2 was born!

Many people have lots of mil but are unable to express.

I had colostrum for weeks before I gave birth. Don't worry xx