Prolactin is a hormone that
stimulates secretion of milk.
Breastfeeding raises Prolactin levels.
Prolactin suppresses ovulation.
Too much Prolactin
works directly on the ovaries
to suppress growth of egg follicles.
Thus while breastfeeding
(because breastfeeding raises prolactin levels)
you have fewer mature follicles each cycle
which creates yet another
common challenge while breastfeeding
which is a Luteal Phase Defect (LPD).

Progesterone is the dominant hormone after ovulation.
The cells left behind after ovulation
in the corpus luteum produce progesterone.
If prolactin is not supressing the number
of maturing follicles
the more egg follicles will be produced and
the higher the level of Progesterone.
When Progesterone levels drop the
menstrual cycle begins and the luteal phase ends.

Since Ovulation is necessary for conception to occur
you need to lower prolactin levels.
To lower prolactin levels,
begin supplemental feedings.

Studies have shown that Vitex a/k/a Chasteberry
may be particularly helpful in lowering prolactin
levels and thus curing corpus luteum deficiency.

Share your experiences w/ Breastfeeding and TTC!
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First, let me say thank you very much.
I took your advice and started taking your herbs three months ago
while still nursing my then 9 month old.
Tonight I discovered that I am pregnant with #3
and I feel truly blessed as well as
extremely greatful for the ttc website
and all of your words of wisdom.
Again thank you so very much for you help and support.
C ~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
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