What is the medical term for not producing breast milk?

Understanding the Medical Term for Lack of Breast Milk Production
In the realm of lactation and breastfeeding, the inability to produce breast milk is medically referred to as agalactia or agalactorrhea. This condition signifies a complete absence of milk production, which can be particularly concerning for new mothers who wish to breastfeed their infants.
The Mechanisms Behind Milk Production
Breast milk production is a complex physiological process primarily regulated by hormones such as prolactin and oxytocin. Prolactin is crucial for the synthesis of milk, while oxytocin facilitates the milk ejection reflex during breastfeeding. Factors that can disrupt this hormonal balance include conditions like polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), thyroid dysfunction, and diabetes, all of which can lead to insufficient milk supply or even complete agalactia.
Related Terms and Conditions
While agalactia refers specifically to the absence of milk production, other related terms include hypogalactia, which denotes a low milk supply that does not meet the nutritional needs of the infant. This condition can lead to significant stress for breastfeeding mothers, as they may perceive their milk supply as inadequate.
Additionally, the term insufficient milk syndrome is often used interchangeably with hypogalactia, highlighting the challenges many mothers face in achieving their breastfeeding goals.
Psychological and Social Implications
The experience of not being able to produce breast milk can have profound psychological effects on mothers. Many may feel guilt or inadequacy, particularly in cultures that place a strong emphasis on breastfeeding as a natural and essential part of motherhood. Research indicates that perceptions of insufficient milk supply can lead to early cessation of breastfeeding, which can affect both maternal and infant health.
Conclusion
In summary, the medical term for not producing breast milk is agalactia. Understanding this condition, along with its causes and implications, is vital for supporting mothers who may struggle with breastfeeding. Addressing both the physiological and emotional aspects of lactation can help create a more supportive environment for new mothers navigating the challenges of breastfeeding.

What is the absence of lactation called?

The synonyms of lactation insufficiency are as follows: lactational inadequacy (1), breast milk insufficiency (2), lactation failure (3,4), mothers milk insufficiency (MMI) (2), perceived insufficient milk (PIM) (5, 6), insufficient breast. milk, partial lactation failure (3, 7, 8), neonatal insufficient.

What is it called when you can’t produce breast milk?

In breastfeeding women, low milk supply, also known as lactation insufficiency, insufficient milk syndrome, agalactia, agalactorrhea, hypogalactia or hypogalactorrhea, is the production of breast milk in daily volumes that do not fully meet the nutritional needs of her infant.

What is the medical term for drying up breast milk?

We have written this factsheet to give you more information about lactation suppression (the process of drying up breast milk). It explains what lactation suppression involves and includes some helpful tips on coping with the side effects.

What happens if a mother cannot produce breast milk?

If you are unsure about this, get help from a lactation consultant (breastfeeding specialist). If you have a delay in your milk coming in, don’t give up. Continue to express milk. That means removing milk from your breasts with a breast pump or by hand.

What is the inability to produce breast milk?

Insufficient glandular tissue (IGT) — or hypoplasia of the mammary gland — is a condition where the mammary tissue of the breast is supplanted by fatty tissue. It’s one of the main causes of primary lactation failure, or the failure to ever produce enough milk.

What is galactokinesis?

Galactokinesis- ejection of milk outside the breast. Galactopoiesis – maintenance of lactation.

What is the medical term for lack of milk?

Low milk supply (hypolactation) is when you produce less milk than your baby needs. It’s a common issue, and one that can be very stressful for parents trying to make sure their baby gets enough nutrition.

Why would a woman not produce breast milk?

You are taking oral contraceptive pills containing oestrogen. You smoke cigarettes. Some medications, including over-the-counter and herbal preparations such as cold/flu tablets, may reduce your milk supply. Rarely, there may be reduced or no milk production because of a medical condition.

What is breast hypoplasia?

Breast hypoplasia (hy·​po·​pla·​sia) is development of inadequate breast tissue to meet the individual’s expectations of an adequate or desirable breast size.

When is it too late to increase milk supply?

NO, it is NEVER too late! 🚫⏰ With the right pump, flange, and schedule, you can absolutely increase your milk supply at any stage of your pumping journey.