I got a request for information from a La Leche League Leader regarding a mother with Crohn's disease who is nursing a one-year old. The mother, although only in her mid-30's, has decreased bone density due to extensive steroid use for the Crohn's. (Since I got this third-hand, I don't know if this was determined pre-pregnancy and lactation or not.) Because of this, her doctor is urging her to wean, which she does not want to do. I know there are studies indicating that, although there is bone loss during lactation, recovery takes place after weaning and, in fact, women who breastfeed are at lower risk of osteoporosis. However, this mother obviously has special considerations which may not be covered by the studies available. Does anyone out there have any hard data, references, etc., that could be of use to this mother and her doctor? TIA, Miriam <[log in to unmask]