How to Navigate Breastfeeding and Your Mental Health
Breastfeeding and the early stages of motherhood can be an emotional and overwhelming experience, especially when challenges arise. Difficulties with breastfeeding can deeply affect a mother’s mental and emotional well-being, making it essential to recognize the signs of anxiety, stress, and postpartum struggles.
At Cheyenne OBGYN, every mother and her mental and emotional wellness are our priority. If you’re navigating this journey, you’re not alone. Here are some supportive tips and strategies to help you navigate breastfeeding and your mental health.
How Breastfeeding Impacts Hormones and Emotions
As your hormones fluctuate postpartum, so do your emotions. While breastfeeding, two hormones are released: prolactin and oxytocin. While many mothers experience feelings of calm and connection while breastfeeding, these hormones can also have a negative effect. The natural rise and fall of hormones like prolactin and oxytocin during breastfeeding can sometimes contribute to feelings of anxiety, irritability, and sadness, making the experience more frustrating for some mothers.
In addition to hormonal changes, difficulties such as latching issues, low milk supply, and lower confidence can make breastfeeding feel overwhelming. Together, these factors can significantly impact a mother’s mental health and their overall perspective on the journey.
To help manage these challenges, it’s important for mothers to see support, care for their physical and emotional needs, and remember that safe, alternative feeding options are always valid.
Seeking Support
If you’re feeling frustrated with breastfeeding, know that you are not alone. Reaching out and talking about your emotions and challenges is a powerful first step toward support and relief. Whether it’s your partner, family member, or a therapist, opening up can help ease the weight of those difficult experiences. You deserve to be heard, supported, and cared for, so don’t hesitate to ask for help when you need it.
Another valuable way to seek support is by connecting with other mothers who share similar experiences. Joining support groups for new mothers facing the same challenges can foster a sense of understanding. This type of support allows mothers the opportunity to open up and feel more comfortable sharing their journey.
Prioritizing Physical and Emotional Needs
Throughout this period in your life, it’s crucial to take care of yourself and prioritize your needs as a mother. Try to find time throughout the day to practice active relaxation techniques, including deep breathing or slow-paced yoga. These movements will help with mindfulness and lower stress levels while breastfeeding.
Eating and drinking plenty of water is key to maintaining stress levels and overall health. Without proper nutrition or hydration, your body can feel easily fatigued and weak, which can contribute to feelings of anxiety. Getting as much sleep and rest as you can is also important while breastfeeding. Don’t hesitate to ask for help or give someone else a task so you can feel peace of mind when resting. Proper sleep is incredibly powerful for mothers and can make a big difference in your routine.
Alternative Options to Breastfeeding
There are many ways to nourish your baby beyond breastfeeding, so don’t hesitate to find what feels right for you. Bottle feeding is a great alternative that ensures your baby gets the essential nutrients they need. Whether you choose expressed breast milk or instant formula, it can be especially helpful for mothers facing challenges with latching, milk supply, or simply looking for more options.
Other feeding alternatives include spoon feeding, cup feeding, syringe feeding, or using a Supplemental Nursing System (SNS). Additional options to consider are breast milk sharing from a trust source, or beginning the weaning process, which gradually transitions your baby from breastfeeding to other types of milk.
Support at Cheyenne OBGYN
If you’re finding breastfeeding challenging, you’re not alone. At Cheyenne OBGYN, our experienced team is here to help you feel confident and comfortable by providing support and guidance. If you have any questions or concerns, give us a call at 307-634-5216 to schedule an appointment. We’re here to support you every step of the way.