Thanks to those who responded to my questions about ways to test for
insufficient glandular tissue.
Yes, the mom did use some hand expression in addition to the pump. Good
suggestion.
No, I don't think a galactogram would help. I have already discussed this
with the 2 radiologists that I confired with and only 1 duct at a time is
canulized and dye injected. As one doctor put it: "It would take days to do
all the ducts in both breasts." (plus I would imagine it would be very
expensive) It is used to diagnose problems in a single duct, as I understand
it.
Can anyone give me more information about "transillumination" as mentioned in
Dr. Lawrence's book? I have searched LACTNET and not found anything on it.
Or do you have any other ideas? Just to refresh your memories about this
mom--she has already weaned. Baby is about 3 months old. She tried
valiently for about a month and never pumped more than 5 to 20 cc despite
frequent (10 or more/ 24 hrs) long pumpings, and efforts to nurse. She would
like to be able to find out if she just has too few glands so as not to be
disappointed again when she has another child.
TIA
Jane