What is Adoptive Breastfeeding?

Some adoptive mothers may be interested in adoptive breastfeeding, in which they attempt to nurse their new baby, even if he is not biologically theirs. The point of this is typically to create the feeling of closeness that most nursing mothers feel with their biological child. In most cases, the baby does not get all of his nutrition from adoptive breastfeeding since the woman can usually only produce a small amount of breast milk. Additionally, this endeavor can take months of work, often involving using a breast pump to stimulate lactation, though medications may also be taken. Despite the fact that most women need to supplement their milk with formula while breastfeeding an adopted child, this action can ensure that the baby gets at least some breast milk, as well as some bonding time each day.

Women who want to try adoptive breastfeeding are encouraged to purchase or rent a double electric breast pump before the baby is even born, if possible. This type of pump is known for being the most efficient at stimulating lactation, as it imitates the suckling of a nursing baby. The more frequently the breasts are pumped, the more the breasts will be stimulated, typically resulting in at least some breast milk. While women are typically advised to start pumping before bringing the baby home, the results may be more noticeable when the baby is within view, as lactation often increases when women think about or see their infant.

Domperidone is a medication that can be taken by mothers interested in adoptive breastfeeding, as it can help increase the milk supply. While its primary purpose is not to increase breast milk, one of its main side effects is improved production of prolactin, which is the hormone that results in lactation. This drug is not usually offered until other methods are exhausted, so women considering adoptive breastfeeding are usually advised to try pumping first. If about a month of pumping provides no results, this medication can be taken in combination with regular use of the breast pump.

In most cases, adoptive mothers cannot make the amount of milk that their baby needs to survive. In fact, most women only produce drops of milk after months of effort, which means that they usually have to supplement with formula. For most women, though, even a little bit of milk is better than none at all, as their adopted baby will get some of the immunities that are present in breast milk. Additionally, they will get the chance to hold their infant close to their chest for at least some feedings, promoting a strong bond between mother and baby.