Is it normal to still have breast milk after 7 months?

Understanding Prolonged Breast Milk Production
For many new mothers, the journey of breastfeeding can be filled with questions and uncertainties. One common concern is whether it is normal to still have breast milk production seven months after childbirth. The answer is nuanced and can vary significantly from person to person.
Breast Milk Production Timeline
Typically, breast milk production begins during pregnancy and peaks shortly after childbirth. The body is designed to produce milk in response to the hormonal changes that occur during and after pregnancy. For most women, milk production continues as long as breastfeeding or pumping occurs regularly. However, even after breastfeeding has ceased, some women may still experience milk production for months or even years.
Factors Influencing Milk Production
Several factors can influence the duration and amount of breast milk a woman produces. These include hormonal levels, the frequency of breastfeeding or pumping, and individual physiological differences. For instance, if a mother has not completely weaned her baby or has been intermittently breastfeeding, it is quite normal for her to continue producing milk even after several months.
Moreover, some women may experience what is known as “lactational amenorrhea,” where the absence of menstruation during breastfeeding can prolong milk production. This is due to elevated levels of prolactin, the hormone responsible for milk production, which can remain high as long as breastfeeding continues.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While it can be normal to still have breast milk after seven months, there are instances where it may warrant a discussion with a healthcare provider. If a woman experiences unexpected or excessive milk production, especially if it is accompanied by discomfort or other symptoms, it may be advisable to consult a doctor. Conditions such as hormonal imbalances or other underlying health issues could be at play.
Conclusion
In summary, it is not uncommon for women to still produce breast milk seven months postpartum, especially if they have not fully weaned their child. Each woman’s body responds differently to the demands of breastfeeding, and factors such as hormonal levels and breastfeeding frequency play significant roles. If there are concerns about milk production, seeking guidance from a healthcare professional can provide clarity and reassurance.

At what age is breast milk no longer beneficial?

Breastmilk or infant formula should be your baby’s main source of nutrition for around the first year of life. Health professionals recommend exclusive breastfeeding for 6 months, with a gradual introduction of appropriate foods in the second 6 months and ongoing breastfeeding for 2 years or beyond.

How long can woman have breast milk?

It usually takes several weeks for your breasts to completely stop producing milk after you stop breastfeeding. Some women continue to produce milk up to 2 years after they have stopped breastfeeding. Contact your GP if you’ve stopped breastfeeding and: you’re still producing a lot of milk.

Does milk supply decrease after 7 months?

Once you introduce solids, your baby may be less interested in breast milk. Since they may spend less time breastfeeding, it’s no surprise that your milk supply may begin to decrease. Although, most babies will continue to want breast milk as their main food source for most of their first year.

What are the negative effects of breastfeeding too long?

For example, duration of breastfeeding experience has been shown to correlate negatively with parent-reported antisocial and aggressive behavior in children from 4 to 11 years of age [43]. These effects on antisocial behavior appear to extend well beyond childhood into adulthood.

What is the longest a woman can produce breast milk?

The ability to lactate and the length of time you’re able to produce milk varies. Some can produce milk for years, while others have trouble producing enough milk for their baby. Some common factors that can impact lactation or breastfeeding are: Hormonal levels and conditions.

Why am I still producing milk after 7 months?

Excessive breast stimulation, medicine side effects or conditions of the pituitary gland all may contribute to galactorrhea. Often, galactorrhea results from increased levels of prolactin, the hormone that stimulates milk production. Sometimes, the cause of galactorrhea can’t be determined.

Why is my 7 month old not finishing milk?

Illness, teething, or distractions may also be factors. Your baby may simply prefer solids or breastfeeding over the bottle. To help, try different bottles, adjust milk temperature, or switch feeding positions. If your baby still refuses, offer milk-based foods and meals like yoghurt or cereal.

When should I stop producing breast milk?

The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends that mothers feed their babies only breast milk for six months and continue breastfeeding for at least one year. After that, it really depends on how long the mother and child want to continue.

Why does milk come out when I squeeze my nipples?

Galactorrhoea is milky nipple discharge not related to pregnancy or breast feeding. It is caused by the abnormal production of a hormone called prolactin. This can be caused by diseases of glands elsewhere in the body which control hormone secretion, such as the pituitary and thyroid glands.

Do soft breasts mean low milk supply?

Your breasts feel softer
This happens as your milk supply adjusts to your baby’s needs. The initial breast fullness reduces in the first few weeks. At around 6 weeks, breast fullness is completely gone and your breasts may feel soft. This is completely normal and has no effect on your milk supply.