Is it possible to bf if you haven't actually had your baby?

[HeadFairy]

My friend is currently considering surrogacy after years of failed IVF. Any baby she has will be biologically hers.. after talking about it to her the other day I was wondering, is it possible to bf if you've not been pg? I imagine there are still milk ducts in breasts that haven't gone through pregnancy... and would the fact that the baby would be biologically theirs make it easier?

[Tambajam]

11 years ago things were very different. Domperidone is pretty reliable in getting good results. Mums often take a prescription of that and maybe mix it with herbs like fenugreek too. Then get hold of a double electric hospital grade pump and get going. People usually start pumping several weeks if not months in advance and breast tissue changes as a result. It would be possible to do all the hardwork (well, most of it) in getting the supply established before the baby arrives. You can use an SNS or some prefer a lact-aid which is very similiar if you do need to supplement at the breast.

[HeadFairy]

That's all very helpful tamba... thanks

[dawntigga]

hf she managed it - much to the mid-wife who delivered the baby shock!

I think if you contact Womans Hour directly they may be able to send a transcript - they might not!

HopeThisHelpsTiggaxx

[HeadFairy]

I will give it a go Tigga... after all I work at the Beeb too, they may be more likely to send it to me!

[tiktok]

Try the Woman's Hour podcast - it should be still there.

Yes, it is possible, and yes, women have done it.

[StealthPolarBear]

exclusively, tiktok?
(I know that's not what the OP is asking, just curious)

[thaliablogs]

There is a wealth of online resources here and in the associated pages. It's possible but involves investment of several months, starting with taking progesterone, then stopping to simulate the hormonal changes with birth, then starting domperidone and pumping like a mad thing. I know several people who've built a full supply for adoptive breastfeeding that way. I wish your friend lots of luck.