Still lactating after nine months and never nursed: Is it normal?

Dear Ask The Doctor: Is it normal for a women who didnt nurse to still lactate after 9 months of pregnancy?

Dear Christina: Yes it is normal to continue lactating upto 12 months after pregnancy even if you are not breast feeding or nursing. Typically women who dont breast feed would have decreased lactation slowly over the period however it all depends on the hormonal levels and thus is different for each individual. If you are getting pain due to the milk build up then you need to use a breast pump to pump out the milk and also can used some hot compress to help with the engorgement. All the best.