Lactation suppression
What is Lactation suppression?
Some women may desire to stop the production of breast milk after birth, as in cases of infant demise. In the past, hormonal therapies, such as diethylstilbestrol and bromocriptine were used, but these are no longer recommended due to side effectsWomen cannot always breastfeed after birth. Reasons may be because the infant dies or is adopted, or the mother is too ill, or for the wellbeing of the mother or infant. HIV-positive mothers, particularly those not on antiretroviral drugs during pregnancy, avoid breastfeeding to reduce the risk of passing on the virus to their infants. Some mothers do not breastfeed on personal or social grounds. Without an infant suckling, milk production (lactation) eventually stops of its own accord. In the meantime, women can experience breast engorgement, leakage of milk, discomfort and pain. Clinicians may provide treatment to suppress lactation and reduce these symptoms. Binding the breasts or wearing a tight brassiere, applying an infra-red lamp, fluid and diet restrictions, external application of jasmine flower and ice packs are tried non-drug approaches. Drug treatments include oestrogens and bromocriptine which lowers prolactin levels. However, increased risks of thromboembolism, cerebral accident and myocardial infarction have been reported with their use.
