August 1–7 marks World Breastfeeding Week—an annual celebration of the crucial role that breast milk plays in the health and development of infants and in building strong bonds between mothers and newborns.
But what if the journey to parenthood wasn’t straightforward? What if the baby was born thanks to assisted reproduction or through a surrogate? Is breastfeeding still possible, proper, and important?
The answer to all of these is yes. And it's a topic that deserves attention.
Breastfeeding After IVF: A Biological Function and Emotional Challenge
Women who have gone through IVF often face both physical and emotional exhaustion. Some give birth via C-section or prematurely. These factors can make breastfeeding more challenging—but not impossible.
A study published in the Journal of Human Lactation (2018) showed that while women who conceived via IVF had a lower likelihood of exclusive breastfeeding at 6 weeks postpartum, this difference disappeared with early lactation support.
What matters is not only support after the birth but also the woman’s confidence in her body—something which may be shaken after multiple IVF cycles. That’s why a sensitive and informed approach from both healthcare providers and family is essential.
Breastfeeding After Surrogacy: Nursing Without Giving Birth
Induced lactation—the process of stimulating milk production without having been pregnant—offers women the chance to breastfeed after surrogacy or adoption.
With a combination of hormonal therapy (e.g., domperidone and estrogen) and mechanical breast stimulation (using a pump or direct latching), it is possible to prepare the breasts for milk production within a few weeks.
Both clinical experience and scientific literature (e.g., Breastfeeding Medicine, 2020) indicate that over 60% of women achieve partial or full lactation.
It’s not always about the amount of milk, but rather the intimacy, skin-to-skin contact, and emotional bonding that breastfeeding enables.
International Perspectives: Where Breastfeeding Is Supported in Non-Traditional Situations
|
Country |
Approach to Breastfeeding in Surrogacy and IVF |
|
USA |
Strong network of lactation consultants; induced lactation is common |
|
Israel |
Highly developed birth and postnatal care system |
|
France |
Breastfeeding less widespread; IVF support is more medical than community-based |
|
India, Georgia |
Surrogates often breastfeed; intended mothers less involved in lactation |
|
Scandinavia |
Comprehensive state support; high rates of breastfeeding |
In many countries, efforts are being made to integrate psychological and lactation care into assisted reproduction and surrogacy processes. Sharing best practices across clinics and borders plays an important role in improving outcomes for all women.