Archive

Breastfeeding Pills’ Risky Results

Nursing moms are taking drugs to help them produce more milk. But doctors say there’s no evidence the drugs—which can pose serious health risks—actually work. Eliza Shapiro on the next phase of extreme breastfeeding.

articles/2012/08/07/breastfeeding-pills-risky-results/breast-feeding-controvery-shapiro_mho6mn
Caroline Arber, Moodboard / Corbis

New moms across the country are popping pills meant to alleviate gastrointestinal distress—not because their stomachs hurt, but because they want more breast milk.

The drugs are typically prescribed by lactation consultants—specialists who help women cope with breastfeeding issues—who say the pills can increase prolactin, the hormone responsible for breast-milk production....

We think “subscriber” would look good on you. Join now to unlock access.

Don't miss this subscriber exclusive article. 

Got a tip? Send it to The Daily Beast here.