Breastfeeding twins after mastectomy

J Hum Lact. 2013 Feb;29(1):20-2. doi: 10.1177/0890334412468790.

Abstract

With the increased use of fertility treatments, more women are having multiple births. The purpose of this case study is to describe the efforts of a woman who had undergone a single mastectomy to provide all the breast milk her twins would need with her 1 functioning breast. A review of the Cumulative Index to Nursing and Allied Health Literature and PubMed confirmed that this situation has not been previously discussed in the current literature. The mother worked with International Board Certified Lactation Consultants and other health care professionals to reach her goal. With active participation and planning, close follow-up after discharge, and support at home, this mother achieved her goal by 3 months and continued for over 2 years. International Board Certified Lactation Consultants should have early, open conversations with the woman with a mastectomy and actively support her with information and strategies to meet her goals.

Publication types

  • Case Reports

MeSH terms

  • Breast Feeding / methods*
  • Breast Feeding / psychology
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Mastectomy*
  • Milk, Human
  • Nurse Clinicians / organization & administration*
  • Twins*