Relactation

Asking for a friend, lol….

I understand lactation can be induced and relactation is probably more likely. I was wondering if relactation can happen through stimulation alone, without hormone supplements?

Does anyone have any advice, risks to be aware of or good information they can direct me toward?

It can happen by stimulation alone although a lot effort and pumping

Okay, thanks. I’m guessing it’s done regularly over a period of weeks/months. I’ll look into it in more detail.

This is an excerpt from an article from the Mayo Clinic on the subject

"Induced lactation depends on the successful replication of this process. If you have months to prepare, your health care provider might prescribe hormone therapy — such as supplemental estrogen or progesterone — to mimic the effects of pregnancy. Hormone therapy may last for months.

About two months before you expect to start breastfeeding, you'll likely stop hormone therapy and begin pumping your breasts with a hospital-grade electric breast pump. This encourages the production and release of prolactin. At first, pump for five minutes three times a day. Work up to pumping for 10 minutes every four hours, including at least once during the night. Then increase pumping time to 15 to 20 minutes every 2 to 3 hours."

So - it takes some time - but can be done. Patience and committing to a schedule is key.

Thank you, irish.

It sounds like a big commitment and a loving thing to do. I imagine it will be painful going in to it and painful coming out of it.

I’ll complete a risk profile that considers the social and physical aspects of it. I need to look into how it will affect my hormones, also.

Has anyone tried any medications to get milk production going again? Are they easily accessible?

Vacuum Pumps and even vacuum cups can induce some creation of milk, had that happen to a few people over the years, the result was accidental.

I've also heard of people using suggestion to make it happen. My grandmother never breastfed any of her children, but she started lactating spontaneously when my cousin was born. His crying induced it in her. I've also read accounts of men who induced lactation in themselves through suggestion alone--no pumping. Something to think about.