Lactation without Pregnancy

The normal period for lactation is after delivery. The intensity of hormones in female which are estrogen and progesterone rises up in the expecting mother’s body. After parturition, the intensity of these two hormones drops down and the intensity of a new hormone which is known as proclatin goes up. This hormone induces and sustains lactation. The intense level of this hormone indicates the brain to encourage production of milk in the mother’s breasts.

For the first couple of days, a nutritious thick fluid is produced which is called colostrum. Colostrum is enriched with various high nutritious components which are needed by a new born. This fluid also contains immunoglobulins which toughens the infant’s immunity.

Lactation and pregnancy are connected with each other. After pregnancy, lactation is needed to fulfill child’s requirement. However, there are some cases in which lactation can be formed without pregnancy. It can be shocking and distressing to have lactation before pregnancy but it is absolutely harmless. This can happen to any women who are of child bearing age. Usually this happens at the age of 16-40 years. There are several reasons for having lactation before pregnancy, which are mentioned below.

Changes in hormones – A woman’s body go through many stages of life cycle. During these stages, body goes through many hormonal changes. If the prolactin hormone rises up due to any reason, it will form lactation. This change in prolactin hormone forms lactation without pregnancy.

Miscarriage – Miscarriage may also form lactation. Miscarriage leads to several hormonal changes which can form lactation.

Stimulus of nipple – Breasts is a division of reproductive system which functions after the birth of child. But if nipples are sucked regularly then the brain will take this as a indication to begin production of milk.

Drugs – Some drugs like Sulpiride and Reglan also encourage prolactin hormone and this causes lactation.

Herbs – Some herbs like fenugreek, cumin seeds, goat’s rue and other herbs may induce lactation.

You should consult your doctor if you find lactation without any reason.