The process of breastfeeding typically involves four stages, which are often referred to as the “four stages of lactation.” These stages describe the changes in breast milk production and the feeding patterns of both the mother and the baby. Here are the four steps: Colostrum: Colostrum, the initial type of breast milk, is produced during the early days after childbirth. It is thick, yellowish, and rich in nutrients and antibodies. Colostrum helps in providing essential nutrients and immune protection to the newborn. Typically, this phase lasts a few days. Transitional Milk: After the colostrum stage, the breasts produce transitional milk. Mature milk and colostrum combine to form transitional milk. It is more abundant in volume than colostrum and contains more fat, lactose, and calories. This stage typically lasts for about two weeks. Mature Milk: Around two weeks after childbirth, the breasts produce mature milk. Mature milk is the primary milk supply for the baby throughout the breastfeeding journey. It consists of thinner foremilk, which quenches the baby’s thirst, and hindmilk, which is creamier and higher in fat, providing essential calories and nutrition. This stage continues as long as the mother continues to breastfeed. Weaning: The final stage of breastfeeding is weaning, which marks the end of exclusive breastfeeding and the introduction of solid foods or other sources of nutrition. Weaning can be a gradual process, with the baby gradually reducing breast milk intake and incorporating different foods into their diet. The timing and method of weaning vary for each mother-baby pair and depend on individual circumstances and preferences.