August is National Breastfeeding Month. This month is dedicated to advocating and supporting all individuals in their breastfeeding journeys. Motherhood is an experience filled with a spectrum of emotions- joy, love, and at times, stress, and uncertainty. As you navigate the early stages of parenting, understanding how breastfeeding can influence your mental health might offer some valuable insights and support.
The Science Behind Breastfeeding and Mental Health
Breastfeeding isn’t just about nourishing your baby; it is also connected with your well-being. Research highlights several ways that breastfeeding can impact your mental health:
Hormone Balance: Breastfeeding triggers the release of oxytocin and prolactin- hormones that promote bonding and emotional well-being. Oxytocin can help to reduce stress and anxiety levels. Prolactin supports milk production and is shown to have mood-stabilizing effects.
Enhanced Bonding: Breastfeeding fosters a unique bonding experience between mother and baby. The close physical contact can strengthen your emotional connection and provide a sense of closeness between you and your baby. For many mothers, this way of bonding can feel very intimate. Breastfeeding may also provide a sense of accomplishment which can be empowering and boost self-esteem. The routine of breastfeeding may offer moments of calm and relaxation in the often chaotic early days of parenthood.
Physical Health Benefits: Breastfeeding can have indirect positive effects on mental health by enhancing physical health. Breastfeeding helps your body recover from childbirth more quickly and lowers the risk of certain illnesses. This can alleviate additional stress.
Navigating Challenges
It is important to note that while breastfeeding has many potential benefits, it is not always smooth sailing. Challenges such as but not limited to latch issues, low milk supply, physical discomfort, and the demands of newborn care can increase levels of stress and anxiety. Additionally, societal pressures and lack of support may exacerbate these challenges, impacting mental health negatively. Here are a few tips to help manage these challenges while caring for your mental health:
Seek Support: Ask for help. Whether it is from a professional such as a lactation consultant that you connect with, a supportive friend, or a family member whose been through similar, having a strong support network can make a significant difference.
Prioritize Self-Care: Easier said than done, am I right? Taking time for yourself may feel impossible however, even just a few minutes each day is so beneficial. Self-care is crucial for maintaining your mental health. This might include activities like taking a walk, practicing mindfulness, or enjoying a hobby. Additionally, prioritizing sleep encourages a positive breastfeeding experience. While that may seem counterintuitive, especially in those early days where cluster feeding and milk coming in occur, sleeping a solid stretch of four uninterrupted hours, can be so helpful and protective.
Be Kind to Yourself: Breastfeeding is a learning process for both you and your baby. It’s okay to have challenges and imperfections. Remind yourself that you’re doing your best and that seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness. And remember, what works for other people, may not work for you and vice versa.
Consider Professional Help: If you’re noticing your mental health declining, whether related to breastfeeding or not, do not hesitate to reach out to a mental health professional. Therapy and counseling can provide valuable tools and support, as well as a space to share your experiences and be heard.
Embracing Your Journey
Breastfeeding is a personal choice and experience. Every journey is unique. Whether you choose to breastfeed or not, the important thing is finding what works best for you and your baby. Your mental health is a crucial part of your overall well-being, and taking steps to nurture it can enhance your experience of motherhood.
Remember, there’s no one-size-fits-all approach. What matters most is finding your balance and support in the way that works for you. Trust yourself and your abilities! Seek help when needed and know that you are doing a wonderful job.
You’ve got this, mama!
We recognize that not everyone resonates with the terminology utilized throughout this article. The research on this topic, which is largely cis, often hetero, and lacking of inclusive language utilizes the terminology that is used within this blog post, and to accurately represent the research, we have utilized the same language. In the future, it is our hope that the research and language becomes more inclusive.
References:
Akerson, D. (2020, January 24). How to implement self-care while breastfeeding. Kindred Bravely
Breastfeeding benefits. WIC Breastfeeding Support - U.S. Department of Agriculture. (n.d.-a). https://wicbreastfeeding.fns.usda.gov/breastfeeding-benefit
Modak A, Ronghe V, Gomase KP. The Psychological Benefits of Breastfeeding: Fostering Maternal Well-Being and Child Development. Cureus. 2023 Oct 9;15(10):e46730. doi: 10.7759/cureus.46730. PMID: 38021634; PMCID: PMC10631302.
The incredible benefits of breastfeeding: Children’s Primary Care Medical Group. San Diego Pediatricians | Children’s Primary Care Medical Group. (n.d.). https://www.cpcmg.net/the-incredible-benefits-of-breastfeeding/
Taking care of you. WIC Breastfeeding Support - U.S. Department of Agriculture. (n.d.-b). https://wicbreastfeeding.fns.usda.gov/taking-care-you
Tucker Z, O'Malley C. Mental Health Benefits of Breastfeeding: A Literature Review. Cureus. 2022 Sep 15;14(9):e29199. doi: 10.7759/cureus.29199. PMID: 36258949; PMCID: PMC9572809.
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