Wanting to Re-Establish Breastfeeding a Year (and more) on...

[SassyMummy]

I feel like a right idiot for posting this, but here goes...

DD is almost 15-months, and ever since I gave up breastfeeding (I slowly weaned her when she was only 3-9 weeks old), I've regretted it.

Last night I found out that it's possible to re-lactate, and it's all I can think about. I REALLY want to breastfeed my daughter, and while I don't think she's too old to be breastfed, I worry she's too old to START breastfeeding.

I'd really like to give it a go, but I have no idea how to actually GET milk in, and whether or not it's even nearly do-able.

I know I will have troubles socially (I doubt ANYONE I know will support me), but I'd really like to give it a go if it's indeed a possibility.

What should I do?

[Pinky McKay]

Hi SassyMummy,
Firstly, you are NOT an idiot!!! Breastfeeding is such an integral part of a womans biology that it is absolutely normal to grieve after premature weaning ( whatever that may be to each of us) and the effects of this loss will vary from woman to woman.

It is possible to relactate at any time but it will be hard work. It is beneficial to see the possibility of relactation as valuable to bonding, not just about the milk and to discuss this with somebody who is trained to help you work through all the issues around relactation - there is a chance that your baby may not be willing at this age, for instance, although some older adopted babies have started breastfeeding after months of bottle feeding.

Regarding support, try the Australian Breastfeeding Association - there are some adoptive mothers who have successfully relactated and the Association may be able to put you in touch with one of these women. They also have an excellent booklet about relactation which could be helpful.

Pinky