Still using the Newman-Goldfarb Protocols®?

I did and they worked great for me...twenty years ago. But why mess with a good thing even if it was developed a long time ago?1

Because the Newman-Goldfarb Protocols for Induced Lactation® aren't a good fit for everyone. And because we have learned a lot since then:

  • Safety risks of domperidone. Although domperidone is safe for almost all lactating (and prospective lactating) parents and their babies, domperidone is not a safe medication for everyone.2,3,4 And for the great majority for whom it is generally safe, domperidone can still lead to moderate to severe side effects if not properly dosed and discontinued.5,6,7 Approaching inducing lactation without professional guidance on domperidone use is risky business. 
  • Fenugreek and blessed thistle aren’t necessarily be best herbal options for inducing lactation. In fact, there may be reasons to avoid fenugreek and other herbs are probably more effective for inducing lactation anyway. Choosing the right herbs is not the only key to s
  • ...
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Induced Lactation and Co-Lactation for Queer Parents

A note about language. It is an important part of an inclusive lactation practice to use language that is affirming and inclusive for all parents, regardless of gender identity. In my speaking and writing, I use 'parent' rather than 'mother'. I also use the terms 'breast' and 'breastfeeding' because according to medical terminology, the breast is both a female and a male body part.1  However, in working with parents, I believe it is essential to reflect back the language used by the parent rather use than my own terms.

 



I've had the privilege of supporting many queer families on their journey to parenthood, whether through birth, adoption, or surrogacy. When a non-birthing partner induces lactation, both parents may 
choose to share the breastfeeding/lactating role, called co-lactating, co-breastfeeding, co-nursing, or co-feeding.  It's truly a beautiful experience to see parents come together to share in the joy and responsibility of feeding their little ones.

Successful co-lact...

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Induced Lactation for Trans and Intersex Women

Make Milk. No Ovaries Needed. Inducing lactation for individuals without ovaries is a topic that's not often discussed, but it's important for trans and intersex women who may be interested in this process.

If you're already taking hormones as part of your gender affirmation journey, that can serve as the baseline for your inducing lactation plan. Hormone therapy can play a key role in inducing lactation, and it's essential to work closely with your healthcare team to adjust your therapy accordingly. Approaches to hormones for trans and intersex women are generally is as follows:

  • Step 1: Estrogen is increased, sometimes gradually. Progesterone is added.
  • Steps 2 and 3: Estrogen is discontinued or decreased to simulate menopausal levels. Although generally discontinued in case studies found in research, my clinical experience indicates maintaining progesterone may be helpful throughout lactation.1,2,3.4.5,6,7,8,9,10,11

Some parents find a low or no estrogen dose difficult to manage...

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