Induced Lactation and Re-lactation Consults
Induced lactation, also known as adoptive nursing, is a means of stimulating milk production in someone that has never lactated before. The process can be arduous, but also very rewarding and allows the parent to enjoy the experience of nursing their child. The approach we will use will be determined by how important a full milk supply is to you, how much you are willing to do and how much time you have until the baby arrives. Induced lactation is typically used for adoptive and surrogate purposes.
Re-lactation is the process of re-stimulating milk supply in a person who has lactated in the past. This is ideal if the infant is 4 months old or younger because it will be easier to re-lactate, especially if your supply was well established. However, this process can also be used for someone who has breastfed in the past and wants to re-stimulate the milk supply even if it is for a baby they did not give birth to. Many who seek re-lactation are able to go on to produce a full milk supply and exclusively breastfeed.
Keep in mind, breastfeeding is not just about the milk. It's an emotional experience and an unforgettable bond between baby and parent. Even bringing baby to the chest to nurse regardless of overall milk supply can be a very rewarding experience and an integral part of an induced lactation/relactation journey.