Q My baby is about 15 months old.

I stopped breastfeeding him when he was about nine-months-old. But my breasts have not stopped producing milk. Why is this?

A It is common for mothers who have stopped breastfeeding to have some milk present in the breasts. It is often just a small amount and usually disappears within a month or two.

However, mothers who have breastfed for a longer duration may find that it takes more time for the milk to stop completely once the baby has been weaned. It is advisable for you to consult a doctor since you are still producing a significant amount of milk six months after weaning.

This condition is known as galactorrhea (unexpected milk production) and is usually related to an increased production in the milk hormone, prolactin.

There are various causes for this condition. An evaluation by a doctor will help to determine the likely cause so that appropriate treatment can be given and medication, if necessary, can be given to suppress the milk production.

MS CYNTHIA PANG
Lactation consultant
KK Women's and Children's Hospital