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Breast Milk Without Pregnancy - Is It Normal?
Parents-to-be are usually full of doubts when the baby is on the way. However, you may also find yourself affected by some conditions associated with the pregnancy even if you are not pregnant - galactorrhea is one such example.
Galactorrhea refers to the condition when the person- it could be a woman, man or even a baby- starts producing breast milk even when pregnancy has not occurred. This condition is also called hyperlactation. Milk production and secretion occur despite the person not being pregnant or even when they are another gender. You have to remember that this is completely different from pus discharge from the breasts, which may be due to infections like mastitis.
In this article, let us take a look at what galactorrhea is and how it can be treated.
What Is Lactation Without Pregnancy?
Can a woman lactate if not pregnant? The answer is yes, she can - in fact, men and babies may also lactate despite them being the opposite gender or not of the right age. This condition where the person lactates without being pregnant is called galactorrhea, or hyperlactation. It is usually caused because of some sort of medical condition and can be treated with ease.
What Causes Galactorrhea?
When milk comes from the breast despite no sign of pregnancy, it can be due to many reasons. Some of the causes of lactation without pregnancy are given below.
1. Medications
If the person is under some sort of medication which can affect the mammary glands, it may stimulate the glands to produce breast milk even if the woman is not pregnant. The medication may be anything ranging from birth control pills to antidepressants or tranquillizers.
2. Hypothyroidism
When the thyroid gland fails to produce enough hormones for the body, it can lead to the release of large amounts of prolactin. This prolactin hormone can stimulate the body to create large amounts of milk.
3. Tumours
If your pituitary gland has been affected by tumours, it can also result in the release of breast milk. The tumours can result in the production of too much prolactin, which can stimulate your body to make more milk.
4. Nerve Damage
Nerve damage in the chest area can also lead to lactation occurring. The damage can be due to shingles, chest surgery or even burns in the chest area.
5. Chronic Kidney Disease
The kidney does the important job of filtering out the excess amounts of prolactin from the blood, so the inability of the kidney to work properly can also result in lactation in the person.
6. Spinal Cord Injuries
Sometimes, serious trauma to the spinal cord can result in the stimulation of the endocrine glands of the body. This leads to lactation too, but the reasons for this condition are not clear yet.
7. Herbs
Herbs like fennel, fenugreek, cumin and anise seeds can stimulate the production of prolactin and breast milk in the consumer.
8. Miscarriage
Pregnancy is characterised by the hormonal and physical changes occurring in the body. Sometimes, the body may start to lactate even after a miscarriage, which can affect the mother both emotionally and physically. Lactation after miscarriage is caused due to the hormonal changes and imbalances which have already occurred in the body of the female.
In men, galactorrhea is associated with a deficiency of testosterone and usually accompanies breast enlargement and tenderness. Some other symptoms that come with it are erectile dysfunction and low sex drive. In babies, the condition can be caused as a result of excess estrogen from the mother passes on to the baby via the placenta, which can cause breast enlargement. This milky discharge normally resolves on its own.
Symptoms of Lactation Without Pregnancy
There are a few galactorrhea symptoms which can make you understand that you are lactating and that the discharge is not because of chest infections like mastitis. Some of these symptoms are:
The most common symptom is that the breasts will start to produce excessive amounts of milk even if you are not pregnant.
You may find yourself leaking from the nipples at random.
The breast tissue may become large.
You may have irregular or missed periods.
You may experience a lowered sex drive.
You may develop acne.
You may experience nausea.
You may also have abnormal hair growth.
You may have problems with vision.
You may have consistent headaches.
Diagnosis and Tests
If you think that you may have abnormal lactation, you should consult the doctor immediately. They will be able to diagnose your condition using multiple tests from the four given below.
1. Physical Exam
The first step is a simple physical exam to check your condition. The doctor may feel around for any unusual masses or growths in the breast to check whether they are the cause of lactation occurring. They will also take a sample of the discharge from the breast for further tests.
2. Mammogram
A mammogram is a simple test to check for any tumours and growth in the breast area that helps the doctor understand more about what may be the cause for lactation. It is similar to an X-ray but is specialised for breasts.
3. Blood Test
Your doctor will also take a sample of your blood in order to test it extensively. Any abnormal levels of the hormone in the blood can give the doctor an idea about what may be causing this galactorrhea in your body.
4. Pregnancy Test
Your doctor will also be sure to administer a pregnancy test to make sure that you are not pregnant- this is because pregnancy, obviously, is the most common cause of breast milk production in females.
How Is Galactorrhea Treated?
The treatment for galactorrhea can be classified broadly into two types- medical treatments and home remedies.
Medical Treatments
There is no single path for treating this condition as it can vary according to the reasons why the breast is producing milk. The treatment is done so as to eliminate the underlying cause of galactorrhea and not this condition itself. If the cause is a tumour, the treatment will be to remove a tumour from the body via surgery. You should not worry since most tumours do not indicate cancer in any way. If the cause of galactorrhea is medication, your doctor will prescribe a substitute or advise you to stop consuming the medicine altogether. The lactation is sure to go away soon in this case, and will not have any lasting effect o your body.
Home Remedies
You can also use home remedies so that your condition does not worsen. You should avoid stimulating the breasts in any way, even during sexual activity. You can also try doing self-exams in order to check for possible lumps in the breast area, at least once a month. You should also avoid tight clothing and anything that might cause friction in the nipple area.
Ways to Prevent Lactation If You Are Not Pregnant
If you are not pregnant, lactation can be difficult to manage. There are a few ways by which you can prevent lactation in such situations:
You should not wear bras or any clothing that irritates your nipples.
You should avoid the stimulation of your breasts as much as possible.
The self-exams of your breasts must be limited to once a month.
Avoid doing drugs.
Try to be less stressed.
Strive to live a healthy life overall.
When to Consult a Doctor
If you see any symptoms of galactorrhea and your nipples are constantly spouting a milk-like substance, you should see the doctor as soon as possible. There can be many underlying causes, so you should treat it quickly.
Lactation without pregnancy is common in many women, and it may even affect men or babies. The condition is caused due to many underlying reasons and it goes away easily enough once treatment starts. Healthy lifestyle changes can help prevent this condition, even in males.
Resources and References: Mayo Clinic
Also Read: Stop Breast Milk Production Read more
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Head Injury in Children
Children of all ages are susceptible to head injuries. However, toddlers may be more vulnerable to head bumps while learning to crawl or walk. Bumps and superficial cuts on the head and face normally heal without much trouble. Even a minor cut on the head may bleed heavily which can be distressing. But the injury may not be so serious and can usually be stopped with home care. But in case of internal head injury, it is difficult to tell whether the brain has suffered a concussion or a more serious grievance.
What is a Head Injury?
Head injuries constitute for one of the main reasons for disability and deaths in kids. The term head injury can broadly be used to describe the huge range of injuries that happen to the skull, scalp, brain and the blood vessels, muscles, bones and tissues underlying in the head of the child. In simpler terms, any trauma or injury inflicted on to any structure of the head can be called a head injury.
A head injury may be a slight bump, bruise or a minor cut on the head or a more traumatic brain injury (TBI) to the brain because of a concussion, open (penetrating) wound or a deep cut, internal bleeding or fractured skull bones.
Types of Head Injuries
Head injuries may be of two types: internal head injuries and external head injuries. Internal injuries are normally related to the brain or skull including the blood vessels inside the skull whereas external injuries may usually concern the scalp.
Internal Head Injury
Our brain is cushioned by cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) to prevent damage to it. But in case the head suffers a serious blow, it can knock the brain or cause injury to the blood vessels, muscles or bones of the skull. Therefore, internal head injuries are usually considered serious and can also be life-threatening.
Symptoms:
In case the child shows the following symptoms after suffering an internal head injury, call the doctor immediately. Some of the symptoms can be:
The child remains unconscious for several seconds
Heavy bleeding which shows no signs of reducing or stopping
The child suffers a seizure
The child experiences partial numbness or weakness in the body
Disturbed speech and vision (double vision)
The child is unable to recall the incident or repeatedly asks the same questions
Abnormal breathing
What You Can Do?
First and foremost, it is important to remain calm after the child has had an accident. Maintaining calm will help you to assess the situation properly. It may not be easy to establish the possible extent of damage in case of an internal head injury. Hence, it is always sensible to consult a doctor in this respect. It is also advisable to observe your child for the next 24 hours after the accident for any worrying signs. You may like to refrain from giving any medication to your child on your own without consulting the doctor.
If Your Child Is Conscious
Try your best to calm your child as much as possible.
Avoid applying direct pressure to the injury. It can be detrimental in case there is a fracture.
In case the child is vomiting, turn the child onto his side to prevent choking.
If Your Child Is Unconscious
Avoid moving your child.
Take care to keep the head and neck of the child straight to avoid any likely damage to the spine or neck.
If there is a seizure, loosen any clothing that may be tight, especially around the neck.
Check your child’s body for any injuries that may require your immediate attention.
Call the doctor immediately.
External Head Injury
External head injuries, even insignificant cuts tend to bleed a lot as the scalp and face have numerous blood vessels very close to the skin’s surface. In case of a blow or injury to the head, blood or fluid from the veins of the scalp may leak and get collected under the scalp leading to swelling or a “goose egg” on the head. The bump may take several days to subside and disappear.
Symptoms
In the occurrence of an external head injury, a child may display the following symptoms:
A severe headache
Recurrent vomiting
Loss of consciousness for a few seconds
Bruising around eyes or behind ears
Difficulty in talking and walking normally
Clear fluid or blood flows from nose or ears
Swelling or “dent” in the head
What You Can Do?
In case of any bleeding, applying pressure over the wound with a clean bandage or cloth for some time may be helpful. But if the cut is significant, medical intervention may be required. Placing a cold compress on a bump may prove useful in relieving bruising and swelling of the skin. It may also help in easing out some of the pain. If applying an ice pack, wrapping it in a clean, soft cloth can be a good idea. Putting ice directly on the bare wound may injure it further.
Refrain from removing any object that may have gotten wedged in the wound. Observe your child for the next 24 hours. If your child wants to sleep after the injury, he may do so. But keep a constant check on him while he sleeps. If he shows any symptoms of an internal injury or you feel something is unusual, call the doctor instantly.
What Is Concussion?
A concussion may occur when the head suffers a closed injury. A closed injury refers to a head injury which does not breach the skull but temporarily alters the normal brain functioning. The injury may be the result of a fall, a hard blow or violent shaking. Recurrent concussions can cause permanent damage to the brain.
Some of the signs of concussion in a baby can be blurred vision, slurred speech, dizziness, vomiting, temporary memory loss, headaches, difficulty in balancing. But usually most of the effects of a concussion are temporary, and a child may recover completely after some time without any long-term damage. Certain tips to deal with a concussion are listed below:
Ensure that your child takes adequate rest after the head injury.
It is not advisable for the child to indulge in any strenuous physical activity immediately after the incident.
Monitor your child for the next 24 hours and be on the lookout for any abnormal changes.
Ask your child to take it slow. Overstimulation of brain after a concussion may prevent recovery.
Your child should avoid activities like watching TV, playing video games, reading that may worsen the condition.
Ways to Prevent Head Injuries in Kids
Some of the ways to prevent head injuries in kids can be:
Make sure your kid wears suitable protective gear while playing sports.
Ensure your kid wears a seatbelt while travelling in a vehicle.
Childproofing your house may help in preventing household accidents.
Refrain from slapping or violently shaking your baby in anger to avert baby head injury.
Be aware of your kid’s abilities and try and anticipate the risk factors for him. It pays to be smart and to be one step ahead of your child.
Child head injury when to worry is the most likely questions parents may ask. Trust your instincts and in case of any doubts, always call your doctor.
It is natural to worry about the head injuries. But, it is important to understand that most of these head injuries are minor and may not possibly result in any serious complications. It is very rare that a child suffers a significant head injury which can cause brain injury or internal bleeding.
Also Read:
Childhood Hearing Loss
Chest Pain in Kids
Tips for Headache in Kids Read more
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What is the Difference Between Foremilk and Hindmilk
Breast milk is generally known to have two components - foremilk and hindmilk. Foremilk is the milk that comes at the start of breastfeeding while hindmilk is the milk that comes at the end. Let’s understand more about it.
What are Foremilk and Hindmilk?
The breastmilk that the baby receives at the start of a breastfeeding session is known as the ‘foremilk,’ which has more water content, is higher in volume but has low-fat content. As the breastfeeding goes on, the fatty content of the breastmilk increases gradually, and the volume goes down. The breastmilk towards the end of the breastfeeding session is lower in volume but very high in fat content and is known as the ‘hindmilk.’ If you are thinking about foremilk vs hindmilk, the major difference is the fat content of the milk.
The breasts only produce one type of milk which has high-fat content. The different types of milk are the result of the mechanics of milk release. The fat content of the milk gradually increases as the breastfeeding session progresses. When the milk is being produced in the breast, the fat globules present in the breastmilk stick to each other and to the alveoli walls (where the milk is made). Milk gets collected in the breasts and slowly moves out through the nipple, leaving behind more and more of the fat content in between the breastfeeding sessions.
What is Foremilk-Hindmilk Imbalance?
If your breasts have more milk than your baby can comfortably consume, your supply will gradually go down over time to correlate to your baby’s actual breastmilk needs. Some babies might get an overdose of foremilk which is rich in lactose. This is known as a foremilk-hindmilk imbalance. Infants might also get foremilk-hindmilk imbalance if you have a healthy milk supply and you take your baby away from the breast before he has finished feeding or you switch sides too soon.
Confusion About the Green Nappies
Healthcare providers typically believe in the idea of sticking to one single breast for one feeding session (known as block-feeding), so that the baby can get more hindmilk. These healthcare providers (and mothers of this opinion) might observe the babies passing green stools. however, the common scant green nappy of your child not gaining weight is not as same as the abundant frothy green nappy of a child with an overload of lactose. Sticking to one breast is definitely not the solution for a baby suffering from green “starvation stools”. Check with your International Board Certified Lactation Consultant for more queries if you are unsure about what your child’s nappies mean or whether block-feeding is a good thing for your child.
Temporary Lactose Intolerance
In these circumstances, the child might find it problematic to digest all the copious amount of lactose that is plentiful in the foremilk causing lactose overload or temporary lactose intolerance. They might get uncomfortable and fussy with copious green, foamy and frothy nappies. The sheer volume and high sugar content of milk generally mean that infants gain weight quite well with foremilk-hindmilk imbalance. However, it may be possible that some babies might not gain enough weight in this circumstance. It is advised to breastfeed your baby on one breast per feed or for a period of time because this can be very beneficial with foremilk-hindmilk imbalance to make sure that babies intake a fine proportion of milk with higher fat concentration.
It doesn’t matter whether it is hindmilk or foremilk or something in the middle of the session, all your baby needs is lots of milk to grow healthy. It is the quantity of breast milk that determines the baby’s health rather than the fat content in a particular feed. So, don’t worry about the quantity of hindmilk that your baby is receiving.
Also Read: Content and Composition of Breastmilk Read more
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Families Are Like Branches On A Tree -We Grow In Different Directions Yet Our Roots Are Same
Family is one of the greatest relationship a person can have.family is that power ,that if a person has any trouble if he has a family he will never be afraid of that problem.family is a feeling of trust , happiness and a feeling in which there is coziness. A person having a well furnished house is not happy because he doesn't have a family to live with. If a family is incomplete it will never be a happy family . Family is dependent on some things. To have a nice family we should keep in mind that complete trust should be there among the members on each other . sometime it happens that due to less time spent in family there are most of the things that are not shared and it later on causes disturbance in the family. Continues quarrels in the family causes depression in children as well as a pressure of tension among them.Due to strictness or rude behavior of any of the member causes disrespect of that person or in other words a kind fear for that person causing less conversation with that person . Love among each other is important. As well as working as a team for any problem is just like working for a huge project. In some families there is a problem of not keeping grandparents those people who say so or think so I would like to say them that grandparents are the golden members of the family .they are the best wishers of the family.they always want there children at great heights. At last I would like to say that family is the strongest Power in the world.if you have complete trust on each other no one in the world can make you apart.So love each other because only good faith person's get a good family. Read more
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Developmental Disorders in Preschoolers
When a child lags behind in his development milestones, he might be suffering from a developmental disorder. Early detection and intervention can help him lead a better life.
Developmental disorders are difficult to diagnose since each child is different. You, as the main caregiver are the best judge of your child’s development. Since you are the one observing him most closely, you will be the first to be aware of developmental delays. Keep a track of the milestones and check your child’s progress.
Do not hesitate to consult a doctor. Early intervention can help the child pick up life skills more easily and will also prevent expensive treatments later in life. Reluctance in making friends, delayed speech development and not engaging in much pretend play may be indicators of such disorders.
Common Development Disorders
1. Autism
Autistic children have few interests. Many of them also have an intellectual disability and might suffer from physical problems like seizures and low muscle control.
2. Asperger’s Syndrome
These children suffer from communication and social problems and find it difficult to concentrate. They often have an average or above average intelligence, which is why Asperger’s Syndrome is difficult to detect till the child is older.
3. ADHD (Attention Deficit Hyperactive Disorder)
This is one of the most common children’s problems. Children with ADHD are over-active and impulsive, and find it difficult to focus even for short periods.
4. Childhood Disintegrative Disorder
These children begin their development normally. Between 2 and 10 years of age, the child loses his skills. Along with problems in communication and an impairment of social skills, such a child may also suffer from physical problems like loss of bladder and bowel control.
5. Rett’s Syndrome
More girls are affected by this syndrome. They have coordination and motor skill problems.
6. Pervasive Development Disorder (Others)
This is a milder form of autism. Children find it difficult to communicate and play, and have problems in socializing with other kids.
Causes of Development Disorders
Development disorders are often the result of multiple causes. They include genetics, parents’ health during pregnancy, birth complications, infections that a mother suffers from during pregnancy, the expectant mother’s or the baby’s exposure to toxic environmental pollutants or early illnesses of the baby.
What Can You Do
If you notice a delay in your child’s development, talk to your doctor. He will be able to tell you if it is a real cause for worry.
Be as specific as possible, while talking to your doctor. For instance say ‘I find my child has no friends at school’.
Persistent follow-up after intervention is just as crucial as detection.
Spend some time to play with your child. Read to him, talk to him and expose him to new experiences even if he seems disinterested.
Match the pace of your child. Go slow, repeat actions or instructions if he wants you to.
Try to understand his body language for signs of frustration or impatience and act accordingly.
With some patience and timely medical assistance, you can help your child overcome his disorder or equip him better to lead a healthy adult life. Read more
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Top Six Bollywood Songs For a Filmy Diwali
Diwali time is Light, Camera, Action time! This November 7 will be all about decking up in gorgeous ethnic wear, doing the Puja, creating a sparkling home and whipping up treats for the family. Guess what can be the perfect backdrop for the festivity? Singing and dancing away to Diwali special songs with our very own Bollywood filmy tadka!
Diwali has always been Bollywood's favourite subject. No wonder that, since the glittering diyas, glowing fairy lights and tons of mithai make for superb filming subjects. This year, prepare to enthrall your family with Diwali songs for kids in Hindi, right from our season's special list!
Your Bollywood Diwali Songs List
1. Aaj Unse Milna Hai Mujhe
Thodi gunjiya-wunjiya lete chalein, thodi barfi-warfi lete chalein! Have you heard this song from Salman Khan's upcoming movie “Prem Ratan Dhan Paayo” yet? While it doesn't seem like a Diwali song at the outset, it is sure to be mouthwatering! From gujiya and barfi to mathri and kaaju-kishmish, Shaan enlists all you must gorge on this season.
2. Mere Tumhare Sabke Liye Happy Diwali
Saare sitaarein uske liye Happy Diwali! This a delightful song from a relatively lesser known film called “Home Delivery”. It truly celebrates the essence of coming together on Diwali – for you, your loved ones and the stars up above. One of those perfectly feel-good Deepavali songs in Hindi!
3. Jaise Diwali Ki Ho Raat Zindagi
Itni yeh khushiyan bolo rakh de kahan? When happiness comes aplenty this season, you are constantly crossing your fingers to ensure your family stays together exactly like this always. Breathe in, listen to this beautiful song from 13B and trust Diwali to light up lives every year.
4. Silsila Yeh Chahat Ka
Na bujha hai, na bujhega, meri chahat ka diya. A soul-stirring number from Shahrukh Khan starrer Devdas, this song serenades the power of diyas and how they stand for love, light and longing.
5. Kabhi Khushi Kabhi Gham
Yeh hai tere karam, kabhi khushi kabhi gham. What is Diwali about if not family get-togethers? This melodious song from the film of the same name celebrates homecoming of the proverbial Ram. After all, no festival is complete for moms without their kids, no matter how old!
6. Lakhon Tare Aasman Mein
Dekhke duniya ki Diwali, dil mera chupchap jala. If you are fond of old Hindi film songs, you are sure to love this stunning Shankar Jaikishan composition from Hariyali Aur Rasta. When the world is busy rejoicing, this song goes out to the lonely souls on Diwali night. This is one of those classic Diwali songs from Hindi movies that never feels old.
Playlist all set? Good! All you now have to do is tune in to these top Diwali songs, lay out mithai on the table, and make some beautiful memories with your family. Happy Diwali! Read more
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 4 months
6 hours ago
Q. hello everyone, please suggest me, am getting pain in lower abdomen right side, anybody plz tell me why am getting pain pls
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
6 hours ago
A. this needs proper examination to find out problems like appendicitis. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Rashmi has added a new answer
Expecting Mom due in 2 months
5 hours ago
Q. hi mam for 2days I am seeing my baby bumb decreasing is it cause of worry?
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 8 m old girl
5 hours ago
A. I don’t know how the bumps of your child decreasing that’s not fair to me second you have not mentioned the current age of your child to do it and there is no clarity in the query it would be difficult for me to help us so if you don’t mind can you please repost with all the necessary details associated with your question
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Trying To Conceive
4 hours ago
Q. Hello I had my period missed for April month and today I got my period. Is it normal to have period after 1 month or is there anything I should be worried about? Iam worried please let me know if that's ok or should I consult my doctor
Read moreDr Ghouse
Paediatrician
4 hours ago
A. consult your doctor for any evaluation required. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
4 hours ago
Q. hllo am in 34 week of pregnancy,cramps in my hand and foots,my pulses is very fast,i feel tiredness internally,are these symptoms are normal
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
4 hours ago
A. get investigations particularly hemoglobin level. if there is no relief it is better you see your doctor for proper examination particularly physical examination if there is need for doing investigations to find out the problem and treatment ok
Dr Ghouse has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
4 hours ago
Q. i feel some fever internally also
Dr Ghouse
Paediatrician
4 hours ago
A. please check the temperature and get the investigations. fever can be because of different reasons most of the times viral bacterial sometimes due to less immunity there can be recurrence better to treat only with paracetamol if the fever more than 100degr
Rashmi has added a new answer
Guardian of 0 children
3 hours ago
Q. Now I am having pain till then my miscarriage has been done at home
Rashmi
Mom of a 9 yr 8 m old girl
3 hours ago
A. I’m sorry I’m unable to understand your query as you haven’t given any detail about it so whatever the situation is you should get a check with your gynaecologist the doctor would be able to give you better help in whatever treatment of precaution you need to require further
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