Persistent Milk Production in a 3-Year-Old Child: Causes and Concerns

The child is three years old and still has breast milk secretion?

I gave birth to my daughter on January 13, 1999.
During the postpartum period, my milk supply was normal, and I did not experience severe engorgement.
However, since my daughter could not adapt to breastfeeding, I gradually tried using a breast pump for a few days, and I did not specifically employ any weaning methods; I simply allowed my milk supply to decrease naturally over time.
From that time until now, outside of my menstrual period, I still experience a slight milk secretion with gentle squeezing, and I feel pain similar to engorgement if I accidentally bump into something.
What could be the cause of this phenomenon?

tiā, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2001/09/05

Dr. Li Guanghan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

It has been over two years since you gave birth, and you are still experiencing milk secretion.
You need to undergo a prolactin hormone test to check for elevated prolactin levels.
If elevated levels are found, further treatment and evaluation will be necessary.

Reply Date: 2001/09/05

More Info

The situation you describe regarding persistent milk production in a 3-year-old child raises several important considerations. First, it's essential to clarify that the production of breast milk, or lactation, is primarily driven by hormonal changes in the body, particularly the hormone prolactin. Prolactin is responsible for milk production, and its levels can be influenced by various factors, including physical stimulation of the breasts, hormonal imbalances, and even certain medications.

In your case, the fact that you are still experiencing milk production and discomfort, such as engorgement-like pain, several years after breastfeeding has ceased is noteworthy. This phenomenon can occur due to a few reasons:
1. Hormonal Imbalance: Sometimes, hormonal levels can remain elevated even after breastfeeding has stopped. Conditions such as hyperprolactinemia, where there is an excess of prolactin in the blood, can lead to continued milk production. This can be caused by various factors, including stress, certain medications, or underlying health conditions.

2. Physical Stimulation: Even minor physical stimulation of the breasts, such as bumping into something, can trigger the release of prolactin and lead to milk expression. This is a reflexive response and can occur even years after breastfeeding has stopped.

3. Galactorrhea: This is a condition characterized by the spontaneous flow of milk from the breast, unrelated to nursing. It can occur in both men and women and is often linked to hormonal imbalances. If you are experiencing this, it may be beneficial to consult with a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

4. Psychological Factors: Sometimes, psychological factors can play a role in lactation. Stress or emotional triggers can lead to hormonal changes that may stimulate milk production.

Given these possibilities, it would be advisable to consult with a healthcare professional, such as an endocrinologist or a pediatrician, who can conduct appropriate tests to evaluate your hormone levels and rule out any underlying conditions. They may recommend blood tests to check prolactin levels and possibly other hormones to understand better what might be causing this persistent lactation.

In terms of your child's nutrition, if she is not consuming milk or dairy products, it is crucial to ensure she receives adequate calcium and vitamin D from other sources. Foods such as leafy greens, fortified plant-based milk (like almond or soy milk), tofu, and fish can provide these essential nutrients. Additionally, if she has any dietary restrictions or preferences, it may be beneficial to consult with a pediatric nutritionist to ensure her dietary needs are being met.

In summary, while persistent milk production can be concerning, it is often manageable with the right medical guidance. Monitoring your child's nutritional intake and ensuring she receives a balanced diet will support her growth and development. If you have further questions or concerns, do not hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

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