Breastfeeding comes with its own challenges. Postpartum depression can actually affect lactation, bonding with infant and more. Here is how new mothers can manage it too.
Breastfeeding experiences can be different for different mothers. There are always several questions, myths and facts surrounding breastfeeding. Postpartum depression is a common challenge mothers face. But did you it can also affect breastfeeding process, bonding with infants as well?
Reduced Milk Production
Postpartum depression (PPD) can lead to hormonal imbalances, particularly affecting prolactin and oxytocin levels, which are crucial for milk production and let-down reflex, explained Dr. Pooja Sharma, Sr. Consultant Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Daffodils by Artemis, East of Kailash, speaking with India.com. she said that such reduction can cause stress and anxiety, exacerbating the depressive symptoms.
Solution: Regular breastfeeding or pumping can help in maintaining milk supply. Consulting a lactation consultant can provide strategies to stimulate milk production, such as proper latch techniques and frequent feeding schedules.
Lack of Bonding
Depression can make it challenging for mothers to bond with their babies, impacting the emotional connection necessary for successful breastfeeding. This lack of bonding can lead to reduced breastfeeding frequency and duration.
Solution: Skin-to-skin contact, even outside of feeding times, can increase bonding. Seeking therapy or joining support groups can also provide emotional support and improve bonding experiences.
Physical Fatigue
PPD often includes physical symptoms like extreme fatigue, making the physical demands of breastfeeding seem overwhelming. This exhaustion can reduce a mother’s ability or desire to breastfeed consistently.
Solution: Make sure that you get adequate rest by seeking help from family or friends for household tasks and baby care. Short, frequent naps and prioritizing sleep can also help alleviate fatigue.
Anxiety and Stress
Mothers with PPD may experience heightened anxiety and stress, which can interfere with milk let-down and create a negative feedback loop that hinders breastfeeding.
Solution: Practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or gentle yoga can help in managing anxiety. Professional counseling and support groups can also be beneficial.
Negative Self-Perception
Feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem which are common in PPD can discourage mothers from breastfeeding, as they may feel they are not good enough or that they are failing at motherhood.
Solution: Positive reinforcement from partners, family, and healthcare providers can boost confidence. Professional therapy can also address these negative feelings and improve self-perception.
Poor Nutritional Intake
Depression can affect a mother’s appetite and dietary habits, leading to poor nutrition, which is essential for maintaining a healthy milk supply and overall well-being.
Solution: Ensuring a balanced diet with the help of a nutritionist and taking prescribed supplements can improve nutritional intake. Small, frequent meals and hydration are also necessary.
Inconsistent Feeding Schedules:
PPD can disrupt daily routines, leading to inconsistent breastfeeding or pumping schedules, which can negatively impact milk supply and the baby’s feeding habits.
Solution: Establishing a flexible yet consistent feeding schedule can help. Using reminders or setting alarms for feeding times and involving a partner or caregiver in maintaining the schedule can also help.
Postpartum depression significantly impacts breastfeeding through various physical and emotional channels. Addressing these issues and seeking help early can help in ensuring both the mother’s and the baby’s well-being.