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Colostrum Leaking in the Second Trimester: What's Normal and What to Do

NNova editorial team · 6 min read

Small colostrum leaks in the second trimester are often normal, but blood, pain, fever or changes in only one breast should be checked by a provider.

Colostrum in the Second Trimester: Why It Can Leak and What to Do

Colostrum is the thick first milk. In the second trimester it may show up on clothing or skin. This is most often due to hormone changes and the breasts getting ready to make milk, not a sign that labor is near.

Why it can happen

  • The breasts are preparing for breastfeeding.
  • Stimulation can trigger leaking, such as from showering, friction from clothing, sex or exercise.
  • Sometimes it happens without a clear trigger.
  • Small leaks may be easier to notice in heat or after activity.

What may help

  • Breast pads or absorbent nursing pads.
  • A soft, supportive bra that does not press on the breasts.
  • Gentle cleaning of the skin, without frequent squeezing or expressing.
  • Asking your OB-GYN or midwife about leaking that worries you, especially if you have a pregnancy complication.
Call your provider promptly if the discharge is bloody, green, or pus-like, comes from only one breast, or comes with fever, strong pain, redness, a new lump, or skin changes. Avoid squeezing or expressing your breasts unless your provider has advised it, because nipple stimulation can trigger uterine contractions in some pregnancies.

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General information only; it does not replace advice from your doctor or midwife.