Does breastfeeding increase or decrease estrogen?

The Relationship Between Breastfeeding and Estrogen Levels
Breastfeeding is a complex physiological process that significantly influences a woman’s hormonal landscape, particularly concerning estrogen levels. Understanding this relationship is crucial for new mothers navigating the postpartum period.
Hormonal Changes During Breastfeeding
When a woman breastfeeds, her body undergoes a series of hormonal adjustments. The primary hormones involved include prolactin, oxytocin, and estrogen. Prolactin, which is essential for milk production, tends to suppress the secretion of estrogen and testosterone. This suppression is a natural response that helps the body focus on lactation rather than fertility during the breastfeeding period.
Impact on Estrogen Levels
Research indicates that breastfeeding is associated with lower estrogen levels in the postpartum period. This decrease is primarily due to the elevated levels of prolactin, which inhibit the ovarian production of estrogen. As a result, many breastfeeding mothers experience a delay in the return of their menstrual cycles, a phenomenon often referred to as lactational amenorrhea.
Moreover, the extent of estrogen suppression can vary based on the frequency and duration of breastfeeding. Mothers who exclusively breastfeed tend to have more pronounced reductions in estrogen compared to those who supplement with formula. This hormonal environment is beneficial as it not only supports milk production but also aids in the recovery of the mother’s body post-pregnancy.
Long-Term Effects and Considerations
While the immediate effects of breastfeeding on estrogen levels are clear, the long-term implications are still being studied. Some research suggests that prolonged breastfeeding may have protective effects against certain health issues, potentially linked to the hormonal changes it induces. However, the relationship between breastfeeding and conditions like osteoarthritis in later life remains complex and requires further investigation.
In summary, breastfeeding leads to a decrease in estrogen levels due to the hormonal interplay primarily driven by prolactin. This decrease is a natural part of the body’s adaptation to support lactation and can have both immediate and long-term health implications for mothers. Understanding these changes can help new mothers manage their health and expectations during the postpartum period.

Does pumping release the same hormones as breastfeeding?

Mechanical breast pumping, but not bottle-feeding was associated with oxytocin and prolactin release and decreased stress levels. Emergency caesarean section reduced oxytocin and prolactin release in response to breastfeeding and also maternal mental adaptations.

How does the woman feel when estrogen is high?

Physical symptoms of estrogen dominance may include irregular menses, breast swelling and tenderness, mood problems, decreased sex drive, weight gain, hair loss, fatigue, insomnia, painful periods, polyps, dense breast tissue, fibroids, and increased endometriosis pain.

Does breastfeeding raise estrogen levels?

Estrogen: All women have low levels of estrogen for the first couple of months after giving birth. Continued breastfeeding extends this period for at least six months. For a few women, lower levels may last as long as they are nursing. Lower estrogen levels may cause vaginal dryness, tightness and tenderness.

Why is estrogen contraindicated in breastfeeding?

Contraceptives which contain estrogen have been linked to reduced milk supply and early cessation of breastfeeding even when started after milk supply is well established and baby is older. Not all mothers who take contraceptives containing estrogen experience lower milk supply, but many do.

What are the signs of low estrogen?

Signs of low estrogen include:

• Dry skin.
• Tender breasts.
• Weak or brittle bones.
• Trouble concentrating.
• Moodiness and irritability.
• Vaginal dryness or atrophy.
• Hot flashes and night sweats.
• Irregular periods or no periods (amenorrhea).

Do you have high estrogen postpartum?

Estrogen increases dramatically during pregnancy, but quickly drops below prepregnancy levels at birth and remains suppressed during the postpartum period.

What happens to estrogen after breastfeeding?

When you start to wean your baby off the breast, the feel-good hormones of prolactin (which makes us feel calm and content) and Oxytocin (our “love” and “bonding” hormone) drop, triggering a rise in estrogen and progesterone. This can lead to a variety of post-weaning symptoms that affect women in a variety of ways.

Does breastfeeding tighten your uterus?

Breastfeeding triggers the release of a hormone called oxytocin that causes the uterus to contract. This helps the uterus return to its normal size more quickly and may decrease the amount of bleeding you have after giving birth. Breastfeeding may make it easier to lose the weight you gained during pregnancy.

Does breastfeeding weaken the pelvic floor?

Conclusion: Breastfeeding after vaginal childbirth was not associated with the development of stress urinary incontinence, pelvic organ prolapse, or anal incontinence 1 to 2 decades after the first vaginal delivery.

What hormones are suppressed during breastfeeding?

As milk production slows and eventually stops, prolactin and oxytocin levels decrease. While breastfeeding, these hormones promoted feelings of contentment, peace, and intimacy. As these hormone levels drop, some individuals experience complex physical and emotional symptoms including moodiness, sadness, or insomnia.