Can breastfeeding make you nauseated?

Understanding Nausea During Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is often celebrated for its numerous benefits, both for the mother and the baby. However, some mothers experience nausea during nursing sessions, raising questions about the underlying causes and implications. This phenomenon, while not universally experienced, can be attributed to several factors.
Hormonal Influences
One of the primary culprits behind nausea during breastfeeding is the hormone oxytocin, which is released during the milk let-down reflex. Oxytocin plays a crucial role in facilitating milk ejection, but it is also linked to digestive processes. For some women, the surge of this hormone can trigger feelings of nausea, particularly in the early weeks of breastfeeding when the body is still adjusting to the demands of nursing.
Physical and Emotional Factors
Beyond hormonal changes, physical conditions such as fatigue and dehydration can contribute to nausea. New mothers often face extreme tiredness due to disrupted sleep patterns and the demands of caring for a newborn. This fatigue can exacerbate feelings of nausea, especially if the mother is not adequately hydrating or eating regular meals. Additionally, the emotional stress of new motherhood can also play a role, as anxiety and stress can manifest physically, leading to nausea.
Timing and Context
Interestingly, the timing of nausea can vary. Some mothers report feeling nauseated primarily in the early weeks of breastfeeding, with symptoms often subsiding after the first month or two. However, if nausea persists or begins when the baby is older, it may be worth considering other factors, such as the possibility of a new pregnancy.
Coping Strategies
For mothers experiencing nausea while breastfeeding, there are several strategies that may help alleviate discomfort. Staying hydrated, ensuring regular meals, and finding comfortable nursing positions can make a significant difference. Additionally, some mothers find relief through relaxation techniques or by taking breaks during feeding sessions.
Conclusion
While nausea during breastfeeding is not a common experience for all mothers, it is a recognized phenomenon that can stem from hormonal changes, physical exhaustion, and emotional stress. Understanding these factors can help mothers navigate their breastfeeding journey with greater ease and comfort. If nausea persists or is accompanied by other concerning symptoms, consulting a healthcare provider is advisable to rule out any underlying issues.

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.

Is it normal to feel sick all the time while breastfeeding?

Mastitis. 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. It’s important to carry on breastfeeding.

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.

Can breastfeeding affect your stomach?

You might notice some twinges or even pain in your abdomen after baby latches. Yes, cramping while breastfeeding is a thing. The good news is that postpartum cramps while breastfeeding generally don’t last too long.

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 does breastfeeding make my stomach upset?

For a few days after delivery, many women have cramping pain in the abdomen at the start of each feeding. This is because breastfeeding stimulates the release of hormones that help shrink the uterus back to its normal size.

Why am I so 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 cause dizziness and nausea?

During pregnancy, your body needs more fuel to provide energy for both you and your growing baby. After birth, breastfeeding can also reduce your blood sugar levels. This can cause your blood sugar levels to decrease and in turn cause postpartum dizziness.

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).

Is nausea a side effect of breastfeeding?

A small percentage of moms report nausea during a breastfeeding session in the early weeks of breastfeeding . It goes away for most (but not all) moms by the end of the 6th-8th week. If nausea during breastfeeding begins when baby is older, consider the possibility of pregnancy.