In a message dated 5/3/04 9:01:22 PM Pacific Daylight Time,
[log in to unmask] writes:

The  questions I have on my mind, (1) Could baby experience side effects  from
the glucophage that would involve the kidneys? (2) Could inadequate  milk
intake affect the results of the "sweat test"? (3) Does insulin  resistance
significant enough to affect fertility also cause difficulties  either in milk
production or calorie (milk fat)  content?

Hi there.  It sounds like this Mama has PCOS (Polycystic Ovary  Syndrome)
which is a cause of infertility and is closely connected with Insulin
Resistance.  Metformin (glucophage) is a common and effective treatment for  helping to
balance the underlying hormonal issues in PCOS.
PCOS is a risk factor for lower milk supply.  I remember reading an  article
recently about it being the major cause of true insufficient milk  supply.  Do
a search for "PCOS breastfeeding" on google and you should be  able to find
more info on that.  But taking metformin in pregnancy and  lactation is
considered safe according to recent research by Thomas Hale.   Some Doctors are using
it to boost milk supply in PCOS or insulin resistant  patients with good
results.  It has also even been shown to reduce  miscarriage rates in women with
PCOS.
I don't know if I've helped too much.  But considering this disorder  affects
10% of women, it's something that is good to know about!
Kerri Smith
Diagnosed with PCOS at 15
Mama to Cole and Adam, working on adoption #3!
LLL Leader and Birthcompanion

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