How to Nurse After Menopause

Women who give birth or adopt children later in life should not worry about negative breastfeeding effects. Menopause does not disable lactation, since milk production is controlled by the pituitary gland in your brain, rather than your reproductive organs. Nevertheless, older nursing mothers may experience increased fatigue or low milk supply. Consider taking concrete steps to avoid complications and increase your energy level.

Instructions

Nursing Tips

1

Get plenty of rest. According to La Leche League, older mothers' most common struggle is fatigue. Rest is especially important if you are already experiencing fatigue due to the onset of menopause.

2

Sleep with your baby. Instead of doing housework while your baby is napping, take the opportunity to get some much-needed rest for yourself. Taking a nap with your baby will also encourage bonding and support your milk supply.

3

Add a supplement to your diet. Fenugreek, for example, can help older nursing mothers boost milk supply. Crush a teaspoon of fenugreek seeds and soak them in boiled water for three hours. Strain, mix with honey and lemon to taste and drink. You can also take fenugreek in capsule form.

4

Drink plenty of water. Six to eight daily glasses of water are recommended for breastfeeding mothers.

5

Consider joining a support group, such as La Leche League, for encouragement and information.

6

Use a breast pump. If you are experiencing low milk supply, invest in a double breast pump and use it regularly to increase your milk production.