General Question

curiousk's avatar

Is it normal that I’m lactating even though I haven’t given birth and I’m not pregnant?

Asked by curiousk (128points) November 30th, 2009

I’m 26 years old. I was pregnant when I was 13 years old and I had a miscarriage. I have never been pregnant since, however, every once in a while, my breasts lactate when I get my period or under certain birth control. I have not been on any birth control in over a year and I am not on my period. I also haven’t been sexually active for a while, so I know that pregnancy is not a possibility. So, is it normal that my breast lactate still? I really hope its not cancer or anything of the sort.

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9 Answers

dpworkin's avatar

It’s most probably hormonal. Men can be induced to lactate with the right cocktail of hormones. To reassure yourself about the symptom, take a look at a site such as the Mayo Clinic site where you can discover what symptoms require further checking. I’m willing to be that you are just fine.

sebastian_von_tulu's avatar

SteadyHealth have a similar discussion which you may find useful.

ItalianPrincess1217's avatar

It’s most likely hormones effecting your body. I would talk to your doctor still, just to be sure. Maybe something can be done to keep that from happening. It must get annoying!

faye's avatar

I think you should go to a doctor. Always worry about breast health.

curiousk's avatar

Thank you all. Specially @sebastian_von_tulu. That blog definitely helped. I will check with my doctor.

sebastian_von_tulu's avatar

No problem. Hope it’s all good :)

lovemypits86's avatar

My doc said it’s pretty normal to do it a little but if you have alot get to a doctor

DrC's avatar

Considering that your last pregnancy was almost 13 years ago, it is not normal to be lactating now. Sometimes the pituitary gland may have over-activity and produce too much of the hormone prolactin. Usually this is caused by a benign tumor of the pituitary and is often treated with medication. This would cause you to lactate. You should have a doctor check your blood levels for prolactin to rule out any overgrowth or over-activity of your pituitary gland. The other thing that can cause an increase in prolactin, and therefore lactation, is antipsychotic medications (Risperidone, Haldol, Prolixin, Zyprexa, etc). Either way you should talk to your doctor because elevated prolactin levels for long periods of time can contribute to osteoporosis.

ETpro's avatar

It’s not terribly normal, but it’s cool so long as underlying health problems have been ruled out. Breast milk is deliciously sweet. I hope you have an appreciative lover willing to let the pressure off.

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