World Breastfeeding Week 2023: How Stress Can Affect Lactation; Expert Weighs In

Postpartum stress is one of the common ailments that make it harder for the new mother to tackle her surroundings and it is crucial that she takes care of herself as much as she does for the baby. 

To understand why new mothers feel stressed, how it can affect the lactation, and what are the ways to cope with it, we spoke to Dr Chetna Jain, Director, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, Gurgaon, to understand it.

Why Do Breastfeeding Mothers Feel Stressed?

Dr Jain said that stress has been on the rise among lactating mothers. She added that at least 10-20% of new mothers in the urban area feel stressed. The reasons behind this stress include:

• Poor postpartum health
• Physical challenges to keep up with the needs of a small baby
• Psychological factors
• Partner expecting same attention as before the childbirth
• Weight gain and change in appearance
• Lack of sleep
• Post-delivery blood loss
• Pain in the wounds in case of caesarean delivery
• Hormonal changes
• Frequent feeding and diaper changes required by the baby

The expert added that during pregnancy and after childbirth, the body gets tired. She said that low levels of oestrogen and progesterone reduce energy levels further, making a woman feel vulnerable. She might feel that she is not doing enough for the baby, and it can adversely impact the emotional health of a new mother. 

Sleep deprivation further adds to this stress, and the partner feels physically and emotionally neglected. Dr Jain said that post-delivery mood changes only aggravate the situation.

How To Cope With Postpartum Stress?

Dr Jain said that open communication between partners is the key to maintaining a strong bond in a relationship. They must observe the situation and keep real expectations while extending undivided support to the new mother. 

New parents can delegate tasks among themselves. It can immensely help to find time for each other and for yourself. It will allow you to enjoy the new phase of life with utmost enthusiasm. 

How Stress Can Affect Lactation?

Dr Jain said that stress can reduce lactation, and it can lead to poor nutrition for the baby as the mother is not producing enough to satiate the baby’s requirements. Hence, it can contribute to growth-related issues in the baby.

The expert added that stress can also alter the composition of breast milk. She added that it can make the baby feel nervous and irritable. It can affect the latching and even affect the bond between the mother and the baby. 

A new mother can feel that she is enough for the baby or she is not doing optimum for her little munchkin. The increased amount of cortisol in the breast milk due to stress can also impact the mood and behaviour of the baby. The feeding pattern turns poor, and the span of breastfeeding can be cut short. 

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How To Feel Relaxed While Breastfeeding?

Dr Jain shared a few tricks that new mothers can opt to feel relaxed during breastfeeding.

• You should feed in a quiet place, which is away from all the noise and chaos.
• You can dim the lights and play soothing music to tune out negative thoughts.
• You can practise yoga (Postpartum Yoga) and slow breathing to reduce anxiety and stress. 
• You should focus on mindful feeding rather than pondering upon the past and future.
• You should try to enjoy cuddling the baby while breastfeeding
• You should seek help from your partner, family, and friends if needed.

All these tricks can help you feel relaxed and do away with stress. Dr Jain added that emotional and physical support can contribute to the overall well-being of a new mother. 

She added that new mothers should eat healthily, indulge in lightweight exercises, delegate household chores, prioritise their well-being over others, listen to happy music, and indulge in massages if they feel the need.

She suggested new mothers avoid activities that are not urgent. They should seek mental health support or join a support group where other new mothers share their challenges. It can help you find a safe space to share all the negative thoughts and feel that you are not alone. 

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Can Breastfeeding Reduce Stress?

According to Dr Jain, breastfeeding can reduce stress (How Stress Can Affect Menstrual Cycle). When a mother feeds her baby, oxytocin is released into the body, which is called the love hormone or bonding hormone. 

Many women experience warmth during breastfeeding. They and their babies feel safe and comfortable. Dr Jain recommended a harmonious environment for breastfeeding until the baby is six months old.

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