Can breastfeeding cause chills and nausea?

Can Breastfeeding Cause Chills and Nausea?
Breastfeeding is often celebrated for its numerous benefits, both for the mother and the baby. However, some mothers may experience unexpected physical reactions during nursing, including chills and nausea. Understanding the potential causes of these symptoms can help mothers navigate their breastfeeding journey more comfortably.
Chills After Breastfeeding
Postpartum chills are a phenomenon that some women experience shortly after giving birth, which can sometimes continue during breastfeeding. This intense shivering is typically a normal response to hormonal changes and the body’s adjustment after delivery. It can occur due to a variety of factors, including the release of oxytocin during breastfeeding, which can trigger a drop in body temperature and lead to chills. While this reaction is generally harmless, it can be unsettling for new mothers.
Nausea During Breastfeeding
Nausea while breastfeeding, although not extremely common, is reported by a small percentage of nursing mothers. This sensation can arise from several factors. For instance, hormonal fluctuations, particularly in the early weeks postpartum, can lead to feelings of nausea. Additionally, some mothers may experience nausea due to anxiety or stress related to breastfeeding, especially if they are struggling with latch issues or concerns about milk supply.
Another potential cause of nausea during breastfeeding is mastitis, an infection of the breast tissue that can mimic flu-like symptoms, including nausea and chills. Mastitis can occur when milk is not fully drained from the breast, leading to inflammation and infection. If a mother experiences persistent nausea along with other symptoms such as fever or localized breast pain, it is crucial to seek medical advice.
Remedies and Management
For mothers experiencing nausea while breastfeeding, several remedies may provide relief. Staying hydrated and ensuring proper nutrition can help mitigate feelings of sickness. Some mothers find that adjusting their breastfeeding position or taking breaks during feeding can alleviate discomfort. If nausea persists, consulting a healthcare provider is advisable, as they may recommend safe anti-emetic medications that can be used during breastfeeding.
In summary, while chills and nausea can occur during breastfeeding, they are often manageable and may stem from normal postpartum adjustments or specific conditions like mastitis. Mothers experiencing these symptoms should not hesitate to seek support and guidance to ensure both their well-being and that of their baby.

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.

Why do I get chills after breastfeeding?

Besides causing swelling and redness, mastitis causes breast pain and warmth. An infection also can cause fever and chills. Mastitis most often affects people who are breastfeeding. This is called lactation mastitis.

Why does my body feel weird when breastfeeding?

Dysphoric milk ejection reflex, or D-MER, is a condition that affects people who breastfeed (chest feed) or pump milk. It causes sudden and intense negative emotions just before you “let down” or release milk. It’s quick and lasts just a minute or two.

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.)

Is it normal for breastfeeding to make you nauseous?

Nausea during let-down only occurs in a small percentage of breastfeeding people and usually disappears by 6 to 8 weeks postpartum.

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 is lactation ketoacidosis?

Lactation ketoacidosis is a rare yet severe metabolic emergency that has been reported in breastfeeding mothers. Reduced carbohydrate intake during breastfeeding has been reported as a common trigger for ketoacidosis.

Why do I feel nauseous postpartum?

Worries might get in the way of sleep, or could cause a decreased appetite. Some mothers might have trouble sitting still, or will experience symptoms such as dizziness or nausea. Oftentimes, postpartum anxiety can take the form of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

Can breastfeeding make you feel shivery?

It may cause you to suddenly feel unwell, with flu-like symptoms such aching and higher temperature, as well as shivering. It can happen when milk leaks into the tissues from blocked ducts, and your body reacts to it, causing redness and swelling, although this is not always a sign of infection.

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.