Author: Maria O’Sullivan, IBCLC
Author Information and Disclosure of Conflicts of InterestAbstract
Lactation is a physiological process typically associated with the reproductive years of a woman’s life. However, the occurrence of breastfeeding during perimenopause—the transitional stage preceding menopause—remains underexplored. The article examines the potential impact of perimenopause on lactation, including hormonal fluctuations, changes in milk production, and the broader breastfeeding experience. It explores the challenges women may face while breastfeeding during perimenopause, as they navigate the physical, emotional, and psychological changes of this stage, and considers the implications for lactation support and clinical practice.
Keywords: perimenopausal symptoms, breastfeeding support, hormonal system, hormone replacement therapy
How to cite: O’Sullivan: Perimenopause and Lactation: An Overlapping Journey. Lactation & Breastfeeding 2026;2:06.
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Maria O’Sullivan has over 19 years of experience with La Leche League. For the past five years, she has also worked as an IBCLC, providing individualised breastfeeding support in clients’ homes and through online consultations. Her practice is LGBTQ+- and neuro-affirmative, providing an inclusive and supportive environment for individuals of all gender identities, sexual orientations, and neurodiverse experiences.
She is passionate about supporting, promoting and protecting Breastfeeding and served on the ALCI Council for 6 years and is currently a committee member of BFLGI. Her greatest achievement is being a mum to her three children Freyja, Xavier and Aurora.
The author declares that she has no conflicts of interest or financial relationships with commercial products.