Breastfeeding Tips & Breast Pump Guide | Lactation Connection

PCOS, renamed PMOS (Polyendocrine Metabolic Ovarian Syndrome) is a highly diverse endocrine spectrum. I will use both acronyms interchangeably in this post. I will also use IR for insulin resistant and NON-IR for non insulin-resistant PCOS/PMOS. PMOS affects one in eight women so if you are reading this as a mom with PCOS, you are not alone. Low milk supply can be an issue in select moms with PMOS. IR PCOS - PMOS Moms with Insulin-Resistant PCOS aka IR-PCOS often face milk supply challenges due to mammary glandular hypoplasia (underdeveloped glandular tissue) or localized insulin resistance i n the mammary glands, which can impede milk synthesis.  This informational blog shows the protocols researched that may help moms with insulin resistant PMOS vs those with Non-IR PMOS to help with milk supply.  Research shows that moms with IR-PMOS usually experience mammary hypoplasia. The physical signs can be seen in shape, spacing, asymmetry, areolar differences and insufficient pre...

If you have been diagnosed with PCOS aka Polycystic Ovary Syndrome in the past, it is now been renamed to PMOS to encompass the endocrine and metabolic system.  As you may have experienced maintaining milk supply requires intensive milk extraction due to risks of delayed milk "coming in" and potential hormonal interference from insulin resistance and/or high androgens. To endeavor to get milk to come in and keep your milk supply, below are some protocols that may help. Immediate Postpartum Protocols Colostrum Collection: With the permission of your doctor or midwife, collect colostrum after 36-37 weeks.  Especially in high risk pregnancies, it is essential to be cleared prior to expression. Early Initiation: Start nursing or hand expression within the first hour of birth. Frequent Removal: Breastfeed on demand or use a hospital-grade pump at least 8–12 times every 24 hours (roughly every 2–3 hours). Night Feedings:  Pitocin levels are the highest between 12pm-5am, so don...