I received a call from a 28 year old mom.  She is breastfeeding her 19
month-old (5-6 times per day) and has been experiencing the folowing
symptoms:

depression, sad all the time
extremely tired
constipated, bloated
gained 20 pounds in one month
hot "flashes" 24 hours a day
no period since '99

other pertinent history:  19 month old is about to have surgery for reflux
which has caused aspiration pneumonia; other stressors related to marriage
and home improvement.

Her doctor prescribed Zoloft 6 months ago, but she has not improved.  He is
weaning her down to 25mg and adding Welbutrin.

She recently had a fasting prolactin level, which was elevated--so her
doctor has told her that she's going through menopause.

I know that it's normal to have an elevated prolactin level while
breastfeeding.  Can you think of any other reasons for the symptoms?

Joyce Coleman, RN, IBCLC

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