Does breastfeeding reduce estrogen?

Understanding the Relationship Between Breastfeeding and Estrogen Levels
Breastfeeding is a natural process that not only nourishes infants but also significantly impacts a mother’s hormonal landscape. One of the key hormones affected during this period is estrogen. After childbirth, a woman’s body undergoes a dramatic hormonal shift, particularly in the levels of estrogen and progesterone.
Hormonal Changes Post-Delivery
Immediately following delivery, there is a sharp decline in estrogen and progesterone levels. This drop is crucial as it prepares the body for breastfeeding. As these hormones decrease, levels of prolactin and oxytocin rise. Prolactin is essential for milk production, while oxytocin helps with milk ejection during breastfeeding. This hormonal shift not only facilitates breastfeeding but also suppresses the menstrual cycle, leading to a state of lactational amenorrhea, which can last for several months.
Prolonged Breastfeeding and Estrogen Deficiency
Research indicates that the duration of breastfeeding can extend the period of low estrogen levels. Women who breastfeed for longer periods may experience prolonged estrogen deficiency, which has been linked to various health implications, including an increased risk of conditions like osteoarthritis. This extended low estrogen state is a natural consequence of the body’s adaptation to breastfeeding, as high prolactin levels inhibit the production of estrogen.
Implications of Reduced Estrogen
The reduction in estrogen during breastfeeding can have several effects on a woman’s body. For instance, low estrogen levels can lead to changes in vaginal tissue, potentially causing dryness or discomfort. Additionally, the hormonal environment created by breastfeeding can influence a woman’s sexual desire and overall well-being.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding does indeed lead to a reduction in estrogen levels. This hormonal change is a natural part of the postpartum process, facilitating breastfeeding while also having broader implications for a woman’s health. Understanding these changes can help new mothers navigate the physical and emotional challenges that accompany this significant life transition.

Does estrogen go down after breastfeeding?

Estrogen decreases prior to birth and throughout breastfeeding though it gradually recovers to reach normal levels by about 6 months or at cessation of lactation [10]. The number of times estrogen status persists at low levels for several weeks does not seem to be associated with OA.

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).

Does breastfeeding cause a lack of estrogen?

After childbirth and during breastfeeding, women’s oestrogen levels can drop to lower levels than usual. These low levels of oestrogen can cause symptoms that mimic menopause.”

How can I increase my estrogen while breastfeeding?

How to increase estrogen levels during breastfeeding

1. Legumes – lentils and beans.
2. Garlic oil.
3. Nuts and seeds.
4. Flaxseeds and sesame seeds.
5. Soy-miso and tofu.
6. Fruits – dried fruits and oranges, strawberries and peaches.
7. Vegetables – kale, sprouts, celery.
8. Dark chocolate.

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.

What is a disadvantage of breastfeeding?

There can be discomfort involved with breastfeeding. When you first start breastfeeding, you may experience sore nipples. For the entirety of your breastfeeding endeavors, your breasts may feel swollen or engorged.

What does a high estrogen face look like?

In women, feminine facial shape (e.g., small jaw, small nose, and reduced interocular distance) is linked to higher estrogen (see Law Smith et al., 2006) and superior immune function (Foo et al., 2020 While the face might be the center of our visual attention, the human body contains numerous morphological features – …

Does breastfeeding mess with hormones?

This encourages your body to continually keep up your milk supply. The production of prolactin can also inhibit the hormones that are responsible for ovulation, so you may notice that you don’t get your period if you’re exclusively breastfeeding.

What hormone crashes after stopping breastfeeding?

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.

How long does it take for hormones to reset 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.