Everything You Need to Know About Breast Milk Color

If you pump or freeze your breast milk, you might notice it changes color. While often referred to as “liquid gold,” breast milk can appear in various hues: white, yellow, blue, green, and even brown. But what causes these color changes, and should you be concerned? Here’s a comprehensive guide on breast milk color and what it means.

What Is the ‘Normal’ Color of Breast Milk?

Breast milk color can vary widely, and there is no single “normal” shade. Most nursing parents produce milk that is white or light blue, but the color can depend on several factors, including the type of milk. Colostrum, the first milk produced, is usually thick and yellow, sometimes clear. If your milk isn’t white, don’t worry just yet.

“There is a wide range of normal when it comes to breast milk color,” says Hali Shields, a certified birth and postpartum doula. “Blueish, yellow, cream, orange—all are normal and safe for the baby.”

Breast Milk Color Changes by Stage

Breast milk color changes throughout the breastfeeding journey, influenced by the milk’s composition and the baby’s needs.

Colostrum: This is the initial milk your body produces, rich in nutrients and antibodies. Colostrum is often yellow or orange due to high levels of beta-carotene but can also be clear and watery.

Transitional Milk: As your milk production increases, your body produces transitional milk, which typically changes from yellow to white over two weeks.

Mature Milk: After two weeks, mature milk is produced, and its appearance varies based on fat content.

Foremilk: This milk is thinner, lower in fat, and can appear clear or bluish.
Hindmilk: As feeding progresses, the milk becomes creamier and higher in fat, appearing thicker and more white or yellow.

What Causes Yellow Breast Milk?

Yellow breast milk is usually due to colostrum, high in beta-carotene. Eating foods rich in beta-carotene, such as carrots and sweet potatoes, can also cause your milk to take on a yellow hue. Freezing breast milk can sometimes turn it slightly yellow as well.

What Makes Breast Milk White?

Mature milk, which comes after the transitional phase, is typically white. However, it can sometimes appear light yellow or blue-tinged. Diet and freezing can affect its color.

Can Breast Milk Be Green or Blue?

Yes, breast milk can be green or blue, and this is generally not a cause for concern.

Blue Milk: This is often mature milk (foremilk) which is thinner and lower in fat.
Green Milk: Dark green vegetables or food dyes can tint your milk green.

What Causes Breast Milk to Be Pink, Red, or Orange?

Pink, red, or orange milk can occur for several reasons.

Pink Milk: Often called “strawberry milk,” this can result from blood due to cracked nipples or duct damage. Bright pink milk might indicate a bacterial infection.
Red Milk: Food dyes or blood from breastfeeding damage can cause red milk. “Rusty Pipe Syndrome,” which releases old blood from breast engorgement, can also cause red-tinted milk, though this is rare.
Orange Milk: High beta-carotene foods or colostrum can turn milk orange.

When to Call a Healthcare Provider

While many color changes are harmless, you should contact a healthcare provider if your milk remains blood-tinged for several days or if it appears black. Black or brownish milk can be due to medications or herbs, and it’s crucial to ensure these are safe for breastfeeding.

If you have any concerns about your breast milk’s color or any other aspect of breastfeeding, don’t hesitate to reach out to your healthcare provider for advice and reassurance.