Renee,
This makes A LOT of sense. Thanks for pointing out something that
should be obvious, but is not always detected, even by physicians. Although many
LCs are RNs, there are many who are not. Since I was not until age 43, I
feel that it will be helpful to elaborate on your information. Pernicious
anemia causes such extreme B-12 deficiency, that the person will require B-12
shots, on a monthly basis, for the remainder of her life. If that deficiency is
undetected in a nursing mother, B-12 is deficient everywhere, including mom's
breastmilk.
Routinely, we have many more gastric bypass and stomach surgery patients
than ever before. We also have many going around with undetected illness
due to the cost of healthcare. Postpartum women are definitely at risk because
so many are told, "You are a mother now, and most new mothers are tired,
depressed, low energy." Although this is somewhat true, some of these new moms
have a pervasive illness that will effect milk supply. Renee already told us
about how her case of undetected pernicious anemia had a B-12 deficient
effect on her milk supply, and that this can have devastating neurological
consequences for the infant.
Even though it has been discussed before, thyroid disease can effect
milk supply also. Hypothyroidism can lower milk supply and increase postpartum
depression. Often symptoms are similar to new mother symptoms--depression,
hair loss, lethargy. Conversely, hyperthyroidism can cause increased milk
supply or even galactorrhea. The tendency to have thyroid problems has a genetic
component. Asking simple questions like-- Does anyone have a thyroid
disease in your family? When was the last time you had a CBC (complete blood
count) or TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone--scores not in normal range indicate a
problem)? -- are helpful. Ever try breastfeeding management techniques with
a high or low milk supply mom, and not have any impact? In these cases, it
is obvious that management techniques alone will not suffice. I would love
to see a thread of discussion on illnesses that effect milk supply, and I
thought I would keep the ball rolling after a good start from Renee. Renee, I
think all of us wish we knew then what we know now.
Debbie Albert, RN, Ph.D., LMHC, IBCLC, RLC
Tampa Lactation Counseling
Tampa, FL
In a message dated 5/21/05 12:01:43 A.M. Eastern Daylight Time,
[log in to unmask] writes:
There are quite a few
studies now showing a link between B-12 deficiency and low B-12 in the
mother's milk supply.
Renee Drake RN CLC
who only wishes I knew then...what I know now!
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