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Breastfeeding/Still lactating a little

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Expert: - 8/25/2007


Question
Hi, I stopped breastfeeding my son at 15 months old (after a gradual and
mutual process of cutting back). It was very simple and not uncomfortable at
all. However, that was about 5 months ago and I am still producing a clear,
sticky substance if I squeeze my nipple. I used to do it every few days
because I was curious about how long it would take to stop, but now I go a
few weeks between checking so I can be sure stimulation isn't the issue.
Should I be concerned about this? Is it a hormone imbalance? I continued
taking my progestin-only pill until about a month ago, but have now stopped
that as well as I am hoping to conceive again in the next month or so.

Thanks,
Kate

Answer
Hello Kate - sometimes it does take the body a bit longer to "reset" and completely cease the lactation process. But since you mention trying to conceive again, call your doctor or have a quick check up with a lactation consultant to ensure that your lactation cycle isn't impacting your menstrual cycle.  Good luck!

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Sue Ennis

Expertise

I am looking to support the segment of mothers that encounter engorgement issues that prevent them from continuing to breastfeeding, those that do not breastfeed or are ready to start weaning. As an aside, I wish to add that questions asked in terms of those not breastfeeding will not be given guilt for their choice. In many forums, including this one, there is currently no category developed for this "not breastfeeding" audience. I do believe that breastfeeding is best for both mother and child, however, I believe more strongly that there is a lack of support for the woman that for either personal or medical reasons cannot breastfeed. My strengths would be in answering questions related to stopping breast milk production comfortably either right after delivery or after nursing their children for some time, reducing breast engorgement pain and dealing with overactive lactation. Questions I would not try to answer are those tied to emotional feelings as I feel many times women that don't/can't breastfeed struggle with it...and that should be directed to the appropriate counseling channel.

Experience

I am the inventor and founder of LaMa Bra and for years have researched the human body functions, both in process and emotions/hormones to develop a bra to help mother slow or stop their breast milk.

Education/Credentials
I hold a BS in General Biology, a MS in Human Nutrition and an MBA in Marketing.
Also, am the the founder of LaMa Bra found at http://www.lamabra.com that has helped many women with engorgement while breastfeeding and through stages of weaning when ready to stop breastfeeding.

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