Left to nature, the secretion is initially scanty (colostrum) but the volume of milk becomes significant at about the third day after the birth, when the breasts become quite dramatically engorged.
Lactation will continue for just as long as a baby is regularly sucking away the supply of milk: the more is removed, the more is made. The volume averages about 1 litre per day, but twice that amount can be produced for twins.
Up to two litres a day? Holy cow! HA!
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