>Another possibility, however-- I'm working with a mom right now, I posted
>about her recently, who starts off breastfeeding like gangbusters, but at
>around 8 weeks her periods return, milk supply starts a steady decline,
>baby becomes fussy, and then baby's weight falls off.  Since she is now
>on baby #4 with same pattern each time despite excellent bfg management,
>we are pretty sure she is dealing with a hormonal problem.

From mid-cycle to the end of the next menstrual period a woman's blood
calcium levels gradually decrease.  For a lot of women (me included) the
drop in blood calcium causes a drop in milk supply.  I have had very good
results with recommending added calcium from mid-cycle through the next
period.  The practice also eliminates most uterine cramping and some
premenstrual discomfort such as water retention.

I recommend 500-600mg of calcium/magnesium starting mid cycle. (No ca.
without mag. in a 2/1 ratio, as most ca/mag is prepared.) If her periods
are irregular she just begins at 14 days. The amount of supplement depends
on the composition of her diet--the more animal protein, the more
calcium/magnesium needed.

Patricia Gima, IBCLC
Milwaukee

Pat Gima

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