A manual of midwifery / by Alfred Lewis Galabin.

  • Galabin, Alfred Lewis, 1843-1913.
Date:
1893
Catalogue details

Licence: Public Domain Mark

Credit: A manual of midwifery / by Alfred Lewis Galabin. Source: Wellcome Collection.

    854/912 (page 830)
    CHAPTER XLII. DISEASES OF THE BKEAST. Galactorrhoea.—Some excess in the quantity of normal milk at the commencement of lactation is not uncommon. The excess then generally escapes spontaneously. An equilibrium is usually soon attained through the increased appetite of the infant; and the only treatment necessary is to limit somewhat the amount of liquid taken and keep the bowels acting rather freely by means of salines. The term galactorrhoea is applied to those cases in which there is not only a persistent excess of milk, but the milk itself is thin and deficient in solids. This is generally a sign that the woman is in a debilitated condition, and unfit for suckling. Continual escape of such a thin secretion has been observed, not only in nursing women, but sometimes in those who have weaned, or have not suckled, or even during pregnancy. Remits.—The strength is soon reduced by the drain upon the system. There is generally loss of flesh. Shortness of breath and other signs of anaemia quickly appear. Some impairment of sight is common. Phthisis may supervene, and lead to a fatal result. The infant also does not thrive upon the poor milk. Sometimes menstruation returns in conjunction with the galactorrhoea, and may be excessive in quantity. The exhausting effect is then increased. Treatment.—The child should be weaned, both for its own sake and the mother's. If the flow of milk still persists after suckling has been discontinued, gentle continuous pressure should be made upon the breasts. This may be carried out in the manner described at p. 284. At the same time glycerine of belladonna* may be applied to the breasts, or belladonna or atropia may be given internally. If these means do not readily succeed a few full doses (gr. x.—xx.) of iodide of potassium may be given. To recruit the strength, tonics, especially iron and quinine, and change of air are desirable. Deficient secretion of milk.—In the absence of any febrile disturbance, a deficient secretion of milk generally depends upon • Ext. Belladon. gr. lx.; glycerini 3i.