The Clinic | Dreams of Milk

Every Friday we answer a real question from the ANR community. Browse the Question of the Week archive →

The Clinic is where you will find the more technical information about ANR and inducing lactation. You'll learn about the mechanics of making milk, how the body adapts and changes to the milk making process, information on how to get started inducing, what to look for and be mindful of, and a host of other topics.

This is also a place where we'll be sharing personal experience — what worked and what didn't — to help you on your own journey.

How Will My Breasts Know How Much Milk To Make?

Your breasts make as much milk as is removed from them. Here's how the supply-and-demand feedback loop works — and why you have more control than you think.

Induced Lactation After Menopause

Many mature women and their partners are interested in ANR. Can you induce lactation after menopause? The short answer is YES!

Pharmaceutical Galactagogues

Pharmaceutical galactagogues like domperidone and metoclopramide can significantly boost milk production. Here's how they work, who they're for, and what to discuss with your doctor.

Herbal Galactagogues

Herbal galactagogues like fenugreek, blessed thistle, and goat's rue are widely used to support milk production. Here's what the evidence says and what to realistically expect.

Using a TENS Unit to Stimulate Lactation

You don't always have the time to stimulate your breasts for 15-20 mins. every 3-4 hours during the day — this is where a TENS unit can come in handy.

Hand Expressing Breast Milk: The Marmet Technique

Hand expression is one of the most practical skills in lactation. Here's the Marmet technique step by step — and why your hands are sometimes better than a pump.

Galactagogues

Galactagogues are substances that promote milk production — herbal or pharmaceutical. Here's what they are, how they work, and what role they realistically play in ANR.

What is Progesterone?

Progesterone builds the machinery for milk production while preventing it from turning on. Here's how it works, why the progesterone drop matters, and what it means for ANR.