Breast milk color varies, but typically ranges from yellowish to bluish-white.
Colostrum vs. Mature Milk
- Colostrum: The first milk produced after birth, colostrum is usually yellowish in color.
- Mature Milk: As milk production transitions, the color generally changes to a bluish-white hue. However, this is just a general guideline; significant variations are considered normal.
Factors Affecting Breast Milk Color
Several factors influence the color of breast milk:
- Stage of Lactation: As mentioned above, colostrum is different from mature milk. The transition involves a change in color. (Parents.com, WIC Breastfeeding Support, What to Expect)
- Diet: The mother's diet significantly impacts breast milk color. Foods and drinks containing food dyes can alter the color. (The Milk Bank, Australian Breastfeeding Association, Aeroflow Breastpumps) For example, consuming blue-green algae can result in green breast milk. (PubMed)
- Medications: Certain medications may also affect the color.
- Infections: In rare cases, bacterial infections like Serratia marcescens can cause pink breast milk. (La Leche League International)
Normal Variations
It's important to understand that a wide range of colors is considered normal. Slight variations in hue (yellowish, bluish, or even slightly greenish) are common and usually not a cause for concern. (Australian Breastfeeding Association, Healthline)
Note: While the color of breast cancer discharge may be similar to breast milk, this is a separate issue and requires medical evaluation if present. (MD Anderson Cancer Center)
