Does breastfeeding cause low libido?

Does Breastfeeding Cause Low Libido?
Breastfeeding is a profound experience for many mothers, providing essential nutrition to their infants while also fostering a unique bond. However, it can also bring about unexpected challenges, particularly concerning a woman’s libido. Many mothers report a noticeable decrease in sexual desire during the breastfeeding period, and this phenomenon can be attributed to several physiological and psychological factors.
Hormonal Changes
One of the primary reasons for low libido during breastfeeding is the significant hormonal shifts that occur in a woman’s body. After childbirth, levels of estrogen and progesterone—hormones that typically enhance sexual desire—drop significantly. This hormonal shift is necessary for milk production, as the body increases levels of prolactin, which is crucial for lactation but has the side effect of suppressing libido.
Prolactin not only promotes milk production but also inhibits the secretion of estrogen and testosterone, both of which are vital for maintaining sexual desire. As a result, breastfeeding women often find themselves in a state of low estrogen, which can dampen sexual interest and responsiveness.
Psychological Factors
Beyond hormonal influences, psychological factors also play a crucial role in a mother’s libido during breastfeeding. The demands of caring for a newborn can lead to fatigue, stress, and a shift in focus away from intimacy. Many mothers report feeling more like caregivers than romantic partners, which can further diminish sexual desire.
Additionally, the physical sensations associated with breastfeeding can complicate sexual arousal. For some women, the act of breastfeeding can create a mental association that makes it difficult to transition into a sexual mindset, leading to feelings of discomfort or disconnection during intimate moments.
Physical Discomfort
Physical discomfort is another significant factor that can contribute to low libido. Many breastfeeding mothers experience issues such as sore nipples, engorgement, or leaking milk, which can make sexual activity less appealing. This discomfort can seep into all aspects of life, affecting mood and overall well-being, which in turn impacts sexual desire.
Coping Strategies
For mothers experiencing low libido while breastfeeding, there are several strategies that may help. Open communication with partners about feelings and needs can foster understanding and intimacy. Additionally, prioritizing self-care and finding time for relaxation can help alleviate some of the stress and fatigue that contribute to low libido.
It’s also important to remember that this phase is often temporary. As breastfeeding decreases and hormonal levels begin to stabilize, many women find that their libido gradually returns to pre-pregnancy levels.
Conclusion
In summary, while breastfeeding can indeed lead to a decrease in libido for many women, this is largely due to hormonal changes, psychological factors, and physical discomfort. Understanding these influences can help mothers navigate this challenging period, fostering both their well-being and their intimate relationships. As with many aspects of motherhood, patience and communication are key to overcoming these hurdles.

What does breastfeeding do to a woman’s hormones?

On top of that, breastfeeding mimics menopause due to the production of the milk-producing hormone, prolactin, temporarily blocking estrogen production, which keeps your estrogen levels low (1). Decreased estrogen levels impact vaginal tissue, temporarily decreasing elasticity, blood flow, and thinning of the tissue.

How long does it take for fertility to return after breastfeeding?

Every woman is unique and your fertility will return in its own time. Some mothers get periods very early on while breastfeeding. Others may only get their periods back after the first year of breastfeeding.

Will my libido come back after breastfeeding?

Postpartum low libido can be experienced for months postpartum and even years. Scientifically, if you’re breastfeeding, oxytocin (referred to as the love hormone) and prolactin increase, which can replace a woman’s desire for sex.

What are the side effects of stopping breastfeeding?

Some might experience headaches or migraines, while others feel exhausted or even dizzy immediately after weaning. Another common post-weaning issue? Acne. Big hormone changes can really throw your body for a loop.

Does breastfeeding affect your libido?

Breastfeeding can affect your sex drive
When you’re breastfeeding, your sex drive can take a double hit. This is thanks to falling oestrogen levels making you feel dryer than usual and lowered progesterone lowering your libido . All of which means your sex life may not be top of its game.

How long does it take for hormones to balance after breastfeeding?

The return to pre-pregnancy hormone levels can vary greatly, but generally hormones will normalize within three to six months. If you are breastfeeding, as you wean from it, your prolactin and oxytocin levels will drop—potentially leaving you feeling sad, anxious or irritable.

What happens to a woman’s body when she stops breastfeeding?

Both oxytocin and prolactin contribute to feelings of calm, love, relaxation, closeness and contentment. As breastfeeding ends, both prolactin and oxytocin levels will lower – and so may your mood and sense of wellbeing. It may last a few days, or it may go on for longer.

What are the negative effects of breastfeeding too long?

For example, duration of breastfeeding experience has been shown to correlate negatively with parent-reported antisocial and aggressive behavior in children from 4 to 11 years of age [43]. These effects on antisocial behavior appear to extend well beyond childhood into adulthood.

How long does postpartum libido loss last?

Postpartum low libido can be experienced for months postpartum and even years. Scientifically, if you’re breastfeeding, oxytocin (referred to as the love hormone) and prolactin increase, which can replace a woman’s desire for sex.

Why does my wife have no libido after pregnancy?

It’s normal for women to have a lower sex drive than they did prior to their pregnancy. Hormonal changes, lack of sleep, physical changes to their body and adjusting to the needs of a new baby all contribute to a reduction in libido. These issues may lead to postpartum depression as well.