MODEL RELEASED. Establishing breastfeeding. View of a midwife helping a new mother to establish breastfeeding. It is important to do this as soon as possible after birth. In the first few days after birth mothers produce a thick, yellowish fluid called colostrum from their breasts. This contains plenty of minerals and protein, as well as lymphocyte white blood cells and antibodies to protect the newborn baby from infection. Within 4 to 5 days the mother will start producing milk, which has the ideal balance of nutrients for a newborn baby.