You have probably heard so much about the benefits of breastfeeding for your baby and you.
For some, breastfeeding brings you joy but for others it's a struggle and full of anguish and stress.
Today we will talk about breastfeeding and postpartum depression and anxiety.
True!
Studies show that women who breastfeed their infants reduced their risk of developing PPD with the effects lasting for 4 months after.
How? Let’s find out!
Oxytocin! Remember that this is also known as the “love hormone” which helps your milk let down. Every time you nurse, you release more oxytocin. Oxytocin helps with relaxation and trust. This hormone has also been shown to decrease stress and anxiety levels when released into certain parts of the brain
Prolactin is a hormone that helps with milk production and is also increased with nursing. This “mothering” hormone will give deep feelings of attachment, calm, and rushes of contentment or euphoria in addition to producing more milk!
Prolactin is thought to reduce the risk of postpartum depression inhibiting the HPA axis which produces cortisol in times of stress.
Although breastfeeding may protect against having postpartum depression for some moms.
For others, the pressure, struggles and lack of sleep that comes with breastfeeding may be a stressor that can lead to postpartum depression and anxiety.
A study looked at women without depression during pregnancy to see their intention to breastfeed. They found that postpartum depression and anxiety was increased in women who wanted to breastfeed and then did not go on to do so, compared to women who wanted to breastfeed and did so.
Basically, your mental health may be affected by these feelings of either success or failure with your plans.
Of course, managing the expectation of the breastfeeding process is a first step!
Many women expect breastfeeding will be easy because it is “natural”!
They are unaware of the challenges and left blindsided when these come up postpartum .
The reality is that breast feeding does not come naturally. Establishing breastfeeding takes time and practice! It requires a “training period” for both you and your baby.
Having a coach (AKA lactation consultant) can help you with the challenges but also reframe your expectations!
However, even with the support of a lactation consultant or healthcare provider, some women may continue to struggle with breastfeeding. It may leave you feeling liked you failed or inadequate as a mother.
Sometimes the best thing for your baby is to stop breastfeeding.
Your mental health is a priority and if breastfeeding is impacting your mental health you should stop!
Remember that postpartum depression and anxiety can not only impact you but also your baby and your family.
Don't feel guilty or ashamed that you stopped breastfeeding! You may need to do that FOR your baby!
True! Dysphoric milk ejection was described as a spectrum where women may experience sadness, anxiety or rage while breastfeeding. It has been reported to last for a few weeks to a year.
This may be due to the decrease in dopamine levels due to prolactin. The decrease in dopamine can bring on the symptoms for some women.
If you are experiencing this talk to a healthcare provider or lactation counselor.
True! Weaning causes changes in your hormone levels: as oxytocin and prolactin drop, your estrogen levels increase. These changes can impact your mental health especially if your body is sensitive to hormonal changes!
Breastfeeding can be protective for postpartum depression and anxiety for some women but not for all.
Yes, breast is best but NOT if it impacts your mental health poorly.
Your mental health is critical for your and your baby’s health.
You are NOT a failure if you decide to stop breastfeeding. You are choosing to support your baby with a mentally healthy mom!
Reach out to your healthcare provider or a lactation counselor or therapist if you need support in lactation or may have postpartum depression / anxiety.
Contact our MaternalWell lactation counselors and pregnancy/postpartum therapists for consultation if needed. As always, use our text support for any general questions.
