Why Am I Still Leaking Milk After Taking Lactation Suppressants?

Still leaking milk after taking lactation suppression medication?

Hello, doctor.
I had a cesarean section on January 15, and I started taking medication to suppress lactation on February 28 for 10 days, one pill a day.
After finishing the medication, my breasts remained soft and did not produce more milk.
However, starting on March 10, I began to experience breast engorgement again, and I could express a significant amount of milk just like when I was breastfeeding.
On March 15, I returned for a follow-up and received more lactation suppression medication, this time taking two pills a day for seven days.
Towards the end of the treatment, my breasts were soft and did not produce more milk.
However, starting on April 8, I noticed that my left breast occasionally drips milk, but it does not happen all day—just a little bit now and then.
What could be the reason for this? Do I need to take more lactation suppression medication? I have not consumed any foods that promote milk production.

Guan, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2022/04/14

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, based on your description, other forms of contact or stimulation can also lead to milk secretion.
It is recommended to observe the situation, and if the secretion persists, you may consider reducing lactation foods or consult a physician to evaluate if other methods should be employed.
Thank you! Wishing you peace and health.
Dr.
Chang

Reply Date: 2022/04/14

More Info

It sounds like you're experiencing a frustrating situation with milk leakage after taking lactation suppressants. Let's break down your concerns and provide some insights based on medical knowledge.

Firstly, it's important to understand how lactation works. After childbirth, the body undergoes hormonal changes that stimulate milk production. Prolactin, a hormone produced by the pituitary gland, is primarily responsible for milk synthesis. When you take lactation suppressants, they typically work by reducing the levels of prolactin or blocking its effects, which should ideally decrease milk production.

However, there are several reasons why you might still be experiencing milk leakage despite taking these medications:
1. Hormonal Fluctuations: After childbirth, your body is still adjusting hormonally. Even after taking lactation suppressants, your hormone levels may fluctuate, leading to intermittent milk production. This can be particularly true if you are experiencing stress or changes in your routine, as these factors can influence hormone levels.

2. Incomplete Suppression: The lactation suppressants you are taking may not be fully effective for you. Different individuals respond differently to medications, and what works for one person may not work for another. Additionally, the dosage and duration of the medication can impact its effectiveness. If you are still experiencing milk leakage after the course of medication, it might indicate that your body is still capable of producing milk.

3. Breast Stimulation: Any form of breast stimulation, whether from physical touch, wearing a bra that applies pressure, or even emotional factors, can trigger milk let-down reflexes. If your breasts are stimulated in any way, it could lead to milk leakage.

4. Residual Milk: After stopping breastfeeding or pumping, there may still be residual milk in the ducts. This can sometimes lead to occasional leakage, especially if the breasts are not fully emptied.

5. Psychological Factors: Sometimes, the mind-body connection can play a role in lactation. If you are thinking about breastfeeding or have emotional ties to the experience, it could potentially trigger milk production even if you are taking suppressants.

Given your situation, it may be beneficial to consult with your healthcare provider again. They can assess your specific case and determine whether further intervention is necessary. It might also be helpful to discuss the possibility of adjusting your medication or exploring other options if the current suppressants are not effective.

In the meantime, here are a few suggestions:
- Monitor Your Symptoms: Keep track of when the leakage occurs and any potential triggers. This information can be helpful for your healthcare provider.

- Avoid Stimulation: Try to minimize any unnecessary stimulation to your breasts, which may help reduce the likelihood of leakage.

- Stay Hydrated and Healthy: Ensure you are maintaining a balanced diet and staying hydrated, as overall health can impact hormonal balance.

In conclusion, while lactation suppressants are designed to reduce milk production, individual responses can vary. If you continue to experience leakage, it is advisable to follow up with your healthcare provider for further evaluation and management. They can provide tailored advice and possibly adjust your treatment plan to better suit your needs.

Similar Q&A

Rare Side Effects of Emetrol: Persistent Milk Secretion Concerns

I was prescribed Emetrol due to gastrointestinal issues. After taking it for about two days, I started experiencing breast tenderness, and by the fourth day, I noticed milk leaking from my breasts. It's been three days since I stopped the medication, but my breasts are still...

Dr. Liao Huiling reply Pharmacology
Generally, the side effects of medications will gradually resolve a few days after discontinuation. The situation you are experiencing is due to the stimulation of prolactin secretion by the medication. If your condition does not improve after stopping the medication, it is advis...

Concerns About Milk Production After Taking Bromocriptine: What to Know

Hello, doctor. I had a miscarriage procedure in mid-April. After that, I noticed some hardening in my breasts, and the doctor prescribed me a lactation suppression medication (Bromocriptine). I took it for a week, and my breasts have softened. However, two weeks later, I still ha...

Dr. Huang Jianzhong reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
I had a miscarriage in mid-April. After that, I noticed some hardening in my breasts, and my doctor prescribed a lactation suppressant (Bromocriptine) for me. I took it for a week, and my breasts have softened. However, two weeks later, I still have a small amount of milk leaking...

Postpartum Breast Engorgement: Concerns About Suppression Injections

Hello, doctor. I have already given birth, and I received a medication to suppress lactation because I couldn't tolerate the pain of engorgement. I didn't expect that it would cause my breasts to shrink even smaller than they were originally. I would like to know if the...

Dr. Yang Wangjun reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello: General lactation suppression injections contain male hormones, female hormones, and progesterone. They can inhibit prolactin, reducing lactation and the proliferation of breast tissue. Typically, these components are eliminated from the body and do not remain. The size of...

Breast Issues After Weaning: Pain, Discharge, and Hormonal Solutions

I gave birth in March last year and breastfed, but I stopped about three to four months ago. My breasts no longer feel swollen or painful, but two weeks ago, I experienced slight pain when pressing on the breast tissue, and a yellow, sticky fluid was discharged. I checked again y...

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, the questioner: Since you are currently in contact with children or in an environment with various related stimuli, it is normal to experience some milk secretion. If you have engorgement or pain, you may express a small amount of milk. Additionally, I recommend reducing e...