Hi, fellow lactnetters...I was wondering if you could help me with a question
a woman posed to me:

She has a history of infertility because she doesn't ovulate & her tubes are
blocked because of a severe infection she contracted when she was 14 years
old.  She has been placed on LoEstril to avoid having 2 & 3 month-long
episodes of vaginal bleeding.  All attempts at getting pregnant have failed,
and she's now turned her hopes to adopting.  She learned that it was possible
to lactate, and she called me inquiring how she get started.

I counseled her based upon what I have read, since I have little experience
in this area.  She should begin pumping and gradually work up to 10-15
minutes with a double pump and hospital-grade electric motor every 2 1/2
hours.  She should begin to see some milk in 4-6 weeks, although it is very
possible she will never be able to fully support baby on breast milk alone.
 She will probably need a supplemental nurser and some help from an LC.
 LoEstril may suppress full lactation.

The one question that I could not answer is:  What are her chances of her
being able to make any milk at all?  She would be happy with 1-2 ounces per
pumping.  Is this amount unreasonable to expect?

I appreciate any info you may have, since my sources are very vague.  TIA.

Debby Poronto, RN, IBCLC
St. John Hospital in Detroit, MI