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Comprehensive and Detailed Explanation:

Human milk changes throughout lactation. Colostrum is produced during late pregnancy and the first few days postpartum. It is followed by transitional milk, which is produced as milk volume increases and composition gradually shifts toward mature milk. Transitional milk generally contains increasing amounts of fat, lactose, and calories while maintaining important immunological properties.

The transition reflects the changing nutritional and developmental needs of the growing infant. Understanding the stages of lactation helps IBCLCs educate families about normal changes in milk volume, breast fullness, and infant feeding patterns. Parents are often reassured by learning that changes in milk appearance and quantity are expected physiological processes.

Transitional milk serves as an important bridge between colostrum and mature milk, supporting continued infant growth while maintaining many protective benefits of breastfeeding.