Does breastfeeding weaken the pelvic floor?

Understanding the Impact of Breastfeeding on the Pelvic Floor
Breastfeeding is often celebrated for its numerous benefits to both mother and child, but it also brings with it a range of physical changes that can affect a woman’s body postpartum. One area of concern that has emerged in recent discussions is the potential impact of breastfeeding on the pelvic floor, particularly in the context of recovery from childbirth.
The Hypoestrogenic State and Its Effects
One of the key factors influencing the pelvic floor during breastfeeding is the transient hypoestrogenic state that occurs when a mother is nursing. Estrogen plays a crucial role in maintaining the strength and elasticity of pelvic floor tissues. During breastfeeding, estrogen levels drop, which can lead to a weakening of these tissues and potentially impair recovery from any trauma sustained during vaginal delivery.
Research indicates that this hormonal shift may contribute to various pelvic floor disorders, such as urinary incontinence and pelvic organ prolapse. However, it is essential to note that while breastfeeding may complicate recovery, it does not necessarily cause long-term damage. Studies have shown that breastfeeding is not associated with an increased risk of developing stress urinary incontinence or pelvic organ prolapse decades after childbirth.
Common Postpartum Issues
Many new mothers experience pelvic floor dysfunction (PFD) after giving birth, which can manifest as pain during intercourse, urinary incontinence, or pelvic organ prolapse. These issues can be exacerbated by the physical demands of breastfeeding, such as the postural changes and the physical strain of holding and nursing a baby. However, the relationship between breastfeeding and these conditions is complex. While some women report worsening symptoms during breastfeeding, others find that their symptoms improve over time.
Recovery and Rehabilitation
Despite the challenges posed by breastfeeding, it is crucial for new mothers to understand that breastfeeding does not inherently delay pelvic floor recovery. In fact, many women experience a significant recovery from PFD symptoms within three months postpartum, regardless of their breastfeeding status. This suggests that while breastfeeding may introduce certain complications, it does not prevent the body from healing.
Pelvic floor rehabilitation can be beneficial for mothers experiencing difficulties. Engaging in pelvic floor exercises, such as Kegels, can help strengthen the muscles and improve overall pelvic health. Additionally, consulting with a pelvic floor physical therapist can provide tailored strategies to address specific concerns related to breastfeeding and pelvic floor recovery.
Conclusion
In summary, while breastfeeding can influence the pelvic floor due to hormonal changes and the physical demands of nursing, it does not necessarily weaken it in the long term. New mothers should be aware of the potential for pelvic floor dysfunction but can take proactive steps to support their recovery. Understanding the interplay between breastfeeding and pelvic health is essential for promoting overall well-being during the postpartum period.

Does pelvic floor improve after breastfeeding?

In this cohort of parous women, there was no significant relationship between breastfeeding and pelvic floor disorders one to two decades after vaginal delivery, regardless of breastfeeding duration or exclusivity.

How to tell if pelvic floor is tight or weak?

How do you tell if your pelvic floor is tight vs. weak?

1. Signs of a tight pelvic floor: Difficulty with starting your stream with urination.
2. Signs of a weak pelvic floor: Difficulty feeling the desired rise in the pelvic floor upon attempts to contract/perform a Kegel.
3. Urinary Incontinence:

How long does it take for hormones to balance after stopping 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 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.

Can breastfeeding affect the pelvic floor?

However, one potentially negative aspect of breastfeeding is its transient impact on the pelvic floor. Studies have demonstrated a statistically significant relationship between breastfeeding duration and urinary incontinence up to two years following childbirth.

What are the negatives of breastfeeding for too long?

In a meta-analysis, it was found that breastfeeding over the age of 1 year, as well as nocturnal feedings, was associated with an increase in dental cavities, likely due to inadequate oral hygiene4.

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.

Will my prolapse improve when I stop breastfeeding?

It is true that many women do have an improvement in prolapse symptoms after they wean, but breastfeeding moms should be reassured that there is no evidence that breastfeeding slows the healing of the pelvic floor muscles or worsens pelvic organ prolapse long-term (2,3).

Can prolonged breastfeeding cause hormonal imbalance?

According to the authors, this is among the first studies to examine how childbirth and breastfeeding are associated with AMH, change in AMH over time, and menopause timing. The findings indicate that a longer duration of breastfeeding is associated with higher AMH levels and later menopause onset.

How long does pelvic floor dysfunction last postpartum?

Many women regain strength in their pelvic floor muscles within two months.