Can breastfeeding cause chills and body aches?

Can Breastfeeding Cause Chills and Body Aches?
Breastfeeding is a natural and vital process for new mothers and their infants, but it can sometimes come with unexpected physical symptoms. Among these, chills and body aches are notable concerns that can arise during this period. Understanding the underlying causes of these symptoms is essential for new mothers navigating the complexities of postpartum recovery.
The Role of Mastitis
One of the primary culprits behind chills and body aches in breastfeeding mothers is mastitis, an infection of the breast tissue. This condition can occur when milk ducts become blocked, leading to inflammation and infection. Symptoms of mastitis often mimic those of the flu, including chills, fever, and body aches. Mothers may experience a sudden onset of these symptoms, which can be alarming, especially when they are already managing the demands of a newborn.
Mastitis can also present with additional signs such as a hard lump in the breast, nipple discharge, and localized pain. If left untreated, it can lead to more severe complications, making it crucial for mothers to seek medical attention if they suspect they have mastitis.
Postpartum Chills
Another phenomenon that can lead to chills is known as postpartum chills. This is a common experience for many women shortly after giving birth, characterized by intense shivering and a feeling of coldness. These chills are typically a normal response to the body’s hormonal changes and the physical stress of childbirth. While they may not be directly linked to breastfeeding, the experience of breastfeeding can sometimes trigger or exacerbate these chills as the body continues to adjust post-delivery.
Other Considerations
In addition to mastitis and postpartum chills, other factors can contribute to chills and body aches during breastfeeding. For instance, engorgement—a condition where the breasts become overly full with milk—can cause discomfort and may lead to feelings of malaise. While engorgement itself may not directly cause chills, the associated discomfort can make a mother feel unwell.
Moreover, the physical and emotional toll of caring for a newborn can lead to fatigue and stress, which may manifest as body aches. It’s essential for new mothers to prioritize self-care and seek support when needed, as the postpartum period can be overwhelming.
Conclusion
In summary, while chills and body aches during breastfeeding can be concerning, they are often linked to conditions like mastitis or the normal physiological changes following childbirth. Mothers experiencing these symptoms should monitor their condition closely and consult healthcare providers to ensure proper treatment and support. Understanding these potential issues can help new mothers navigate their breastfeeding journey with greater confidence and awareness.

Can breastfeeding hormones make you feel sick?

Milk ejection can be associated with different sensations that vary dramatically between women. These may be localised to the breast such as a ‘drawing’ pain or tingling, to more systemic sensations such as nausea, thirst, fainting or even mental anxiety and depression8.

What does the beginning of mastitis feel like?

What are some symptoms of mastitis? You might have a red, sore area on your breast. Sometimes it feels like getting the flu. You might feel hot and cold with a fever, and have general body aches.

Can breastfeeding cause achy joints?

Using the non-breastfeeding group as a reference, the odds ratio (OR) for joint pain among women who breastfed ≥1 month was 1.49 (95% confidence interval [CI] 1.01–2.21). As the breastfeeding duration increased, the OR of joint pain prevalence also increased (p for trend; p = 0.002).

Is it normal to get chills when breastfeeding?

What is breast mastitis? May, or may not, involve an infection. Involves redness, tenderness and heat in the breast, along with a fever and flu-like symptoms such as nausea, aches and chills. Usually occurs within the first six weeks of breastfeeding, but can occur anytime.

What is the 3 month breastfeeding crisis?

These increases occur around the same time for all babies, hence the term “3-months breastfeeding crisis”. This crisis is the most well-known because it is the most challenging for mothers. One reason is that this crisis, unlike others you may experience before, can last up to a month.

Can breastfeeding make you feel feverish?

It’s common to experience a painful or burning sensation while breastfeeding, too. You might also develop a fever (usually 101 degrees Fahrenheit or more) and other flu-like symptoms (such as chills) — which can sometimes come on suddenly.

Is it normal to have body aches while breastfeeding?

The hours and hours of holding baby and trying different feeding positions can lead to aches and pains in the back, neck, shoulders and even the wrists!

Can you get flu-like symptoms while breastfeeding?

The symptoms of mastitis can come on very suddenly. You may feel like you’re getting the flu before you feel any discomfort in your breast. When you feel that pain or see the telltale redness, call your doctor as soon as possible. Your doctor can diagnose mastitis based on a physical exam.

When should I worry about postpartum chills?

Most of the time, a case of the shakes is nothing to worry about. (There are a few symptoms your medical team will keep on their radar, mainly if your chills are accompanied by a fever, which could be one of the first signs of a potential postpartum infection.)

Can breastfeeding make you feel unwell?

Mastitis (inflammation of the breast) happens when a blocked milk duct is not relieved. It makes the breast feel hot and painful, and can make you feel very unwell with flu-like symptoms.