Do you feel sick when your milk comes in?

Understanding the Experience of Milk Coming In
When a woman gives birth, her body undergoes numerous physiological changes, one of which is the onset of milk production. This process, known as “milk coming in,” typically occurs within the first few days postpartum and can be accompanied by a range of sensations and symptoms.
The Physiological Changes
The arrival of breast milk is primarily driven by hormonal changes. After childbirth, levels of progesterone and estrogen drop dramatically, while prolactin, the hormone responsible for milk production, begins to rise. This hormonal shift signals the body to produce milk, which can lead to physical changes in the breasts, including fullness and engorgement.
Common Symptoms
For many women, the experience of milk coming in can be overwhelming and, at times, uncomfortable. Symptoms can include:
– Breast Engorgement: As milk fills the breasts, they can become swollen, hard, and painful. This engorgement can lead to a feeling of heaviness and tightness that may be distressing.

– Sensitivity and Pain: The increased pressure in the breasts can cause sensitivity, making breastfeeding or even light touch uncomfortable. Some women report sharp pains or a dull ache.
– Flu-like Symptoms: Interestingly, some women may experience flu-like symptoms during this time, including fever, chills, and a general feeling of malaise. This is often attributed to the body’s inflammatory response to the sudden changes occurring after childbirth.
Emotional and Psychological Factors
The transition into motherhood is not just a physical journey; it is also an emotional one. The stress and anxiety surrounding newborn care, combined with hormonal fluctuations, can exacerbate feelings of discomfort. This emotional component can lead to feelings of sickness or unease, particularly when paired with the physical symptoms of milk coming in.
Coping Strategies
For those experiencing discomfort during this transitional period, several strategies can help alleviate symptoms:
– Nursing or Pumping: Regularly breastfeeding or expressing milk can relieve engorgement and reduce discomfort.
– Cold Compresses: Applying cold packs to the breasts can help reduce swelling and numb pain.
– Pain Relief: Over-the-counter pain relievers, such as ibuprofen, can be effective in managing discomfort.
– Hydration and Nutrition: Staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet can support overall wellbeing during this time.
Conclusion
In conclusion, while the experience of milk coming in can be accompanied by sensations that some may interpret as feeling “sick,” it is a natural and common part of the postpartum process. Understanding the physiological and emotional changes that occur can help new mothers navigate this challenging yet rewarding phase of motherhood. Each woman’s experience is unique, and it’s essential for those feeling unwell to seek support from healthcare professionals if symptoms become overwhelming.

Is it normal to feel achy when milk comes in?

During the first 2–5 days after birth, it’s normal to have engorged (very full) breasts as your milk supply increases. But if your baby nurses (or you pump) every 2–3 hours, your breasts should not feel engorged. Engorgement can lead to sore, painful breasts or a breast infection. So it’s best to try to avoid it.

Does soft breasts mean low milk supply?

Your breasts feel softer
The initial breast fullness reduces in the first few weeks. At around 6 weeks, breast fullness is completely gone and your breasts may feel soft. This is completely normal and has no effect on your milk supply.

Do you get the chills when your milk comes in?

Breast engorgement is common in the first week after giving birth. Both of your breasts feel swollen, firm and painful. You might also have a fever and chills. Healthcare providers use gentle massage and other techniques to ease the swelling and help you feel better.

Can breastfeeding while pregnant make you feel sick?

If you are breastfeeding while pregnant, you may notice a few side effects. Morning sickness can sometimes be worse during a feed. This may be due to hormonal release in your body, hunger, thirst or tiredness.

Is it normal to feel feverish when your milk comes in?

This happens because the breasts might swell too much and get inflamed when milk first starts to come in. The swelling and fever typically go away within 24 hours. When you have cracked or irritated nipples, bacteria can sometimes get into the breast tissue and lead to an infection and fever as well.

What are the symptoms of milk coming in?

Some mothers feel a tingling or pins and needles sensation in the breast. Sometimes there is a sudden feeling of fullness in the breast. While feeding on one side your other breast may start to leak milk. You may become thirsty.

How do you feel when your breast milk comes in?

You may notice your breasts feeling full, hard, and warm as this happens. Your baby may begin to want to breastfeed more frequently around this time. If you are concerned about your milk coming in, talk to a lactation consultant or your doctor or nurse. Did You Know?

Can milk make you feel unwell?

People with lactose intolerance are unable to fully digest the sugar (lactose) in milk. As a result, they have diarrhea, gas and bloating after eating or drinking dairy products. The condition, which is also called lactose malabsorption, is usually harmless, but its symptoms can be uncomfortable.

Can you feel unwell when milk comes in?

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. Starting feeds with the tender breast may help.

Is it normal to feel sick when breast milk comes in?

Nausea that occurs with the milk let-down may be related to the release of oxytocin. Oxytocin is the hormone that causes the milk ejection reflex (MER or let-down), and it also helps make digestion more efficient and is associated with other gut hormones that can cause nausea. According to Dr.