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 part¹.  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 numerous 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...

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 menopause 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...