Patient's question:
My wife is 57 years old this year, and recently I've noticed that she has gone through menopause. Although we are both of advanced age, we still enjoy a harmonious marital life. Since I learned about my wife's menopause, I've had a question: should I still breastfeed after menopause?Doctor's answer:
Menopause is a normal physiological process for women, where the function of the ovaries has declined. A normal menstrual cycle is regulated by the hormones estrogen and progesterone secreted by the ovaries, leading to the cyclic fibrosis and shedding of the endometrium. With declining ovarian function, the amount of hormones secreted decreases, unable to induce changes in the endometrium, and there is no further development of follicles or ovulation. After menopause, fertilization of an egg will no longer occur. Breastfeeding is no longer necessary.