Breastfeeding comes with its own challenges. Postpartum depression can affect breastfeeding, bonding with your baby, and more. Here’s how new moms can handle it, too.
Breastfeeding experiences can be different for every mother. There are always various questions, myths, and realities surrounding breastfeeding. Postpartum depression is a common challenge faced by mothers. But did you know that it can also affect the breastfeeding process and bonding with babies?
Reduction in milk production
Postpartum depression (PPD) can lead to hormonal imbalances, particularly affecting prolactin and oxytocin levels, which are crucial for milk production and the let-down reflex, Dr Pooja Sharma, Senior Consultant, Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Daffodils by Artemis, East Kailash, told India.com. She said such a reduction can cause stress and anxiety, exacerbating depressive symptoms.
Solution: Regular breastfeeding or pumping can help maintain your milk supply. Consulting a lactation specialist can provide strategies to stimulate milk production, such as proper latching techniques and frequent feeding schedules.
Lack of link
Depression can make it difficult for mothers to bond with their babies, affecting the emotional connection needed for successful breastfeeding. This lack of bonding can lead to a reduction in the frequency and duration of breastfeeding.
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 enhance bonding experiences.
Physical fatigue
Postpartum depression often includes physical symptoms such as extreme fatigue, which makes the physical demands of breastfeeding seem overwhelming. This exhaustion can reduce a mother’s ability or desire to breastfeed consistently.
Solution: Make sure you get enough rest by asking family or friends to help with household chores and baby care. Short, frequent naps and prioritizing sleep can also help relieve fatigue.
Anxiety and stress
Mothers with postpartum depression may experience increased anxiety and stress, which can interfere with milk letdown and create a negative feedback loop that makes breastfeeding difficult.
Solution: Practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation or gentle yoga can help manage anxiety. Professional counselling and support groups can also be beneficial.
Negative self-perception
Feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem that are common in postpartum depression can discourage mothers from breastfeeding, as they may feel like they are not good enough or that they are failing at motherhood.
Solution: Positive reinforcement from partners, family, and healthcare professionals 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 eating 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:
Postpartum depression can disrupt daily routines and lead to inconsistent breastfeeding or pumping schedules, which can negatively impact milk supply and baby’s feeding habits.
Solution: Establishing a flexible but consistent feeding schedule can help. It can also be helpful to use reminders or set alarms for feeding times and involve a partner or caregiver in maintaining the schedule.
Postpartum depression significantly impacts breastfeeding through a variety of physical and emotional channels. Addressing these issues and seeking help early can help ensure the well-being of both mother and baby.
