Does low estrogen cause low milk supply?

Understanding the Link Between Low Estrogen and Milk Supply
Low milk supply (LMS) is a common concern for breastfeeding mothers, affecting approximately 10% to 15% of them. One of the critical factors influencing milk production is hormonal balance, particularly the levels of estrogen and progesterone.
The Role of Estrogen in Milk Production
Estrogen plays a significant role in the development of breast tissue and the regulation of milk production. During pregnancy, estrogen levels rise, which helps prepare the breasts for lactation. After childbirth, the drop in estrogen levels, along with progesterone, signals the body to initiate milk production. However, if estrogen levels remain low postpartum, it can hinder the milk supply. This is because estrogen is essential for the development of the milk ducts and the overall structure of the breast tissue, which are crucial for effective lactation.
Research indicates that low estrogen levels can lead to insufficient breast tissue development, which in turn can result in a lower milk supply. This hormonal imbalance can be exacerbated by various factors, including certain medical conditions like Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS), which is characterized by low progesterone and elevated male hormones that can suppress breast development.
Other Contributing Factors
While low estrogen is a significant factor, it is not the sole cause of low milk supply. Other hormones, such as progesterone, also play a vital role. The interplay between these hormones is complex, and disruptions in their levels can lead to challenges in breastfeeding. For instance, medications that affect hormone levels, such as certain antihistamines and steroids, can also impact milk production.
Moreover, external factors such as stress, inadequate breastfeeding techniques, and insufficient frequency of breastfeeding can further complicate the situation. These factors can lead to a decrease in the stimulation necessary for maintaining milk supply, regardless of hormonal levels.
Conclusion
In summary, low estrogen levels can indeed contribute to low milk supply by affecting breast tissue development and milk production. However, it is essential to consider the broader hormonal landscape and external factors that can also play a role. For mothers experiencing low milk supply, consulting with healthcare professionals can provide tailored strategies to address both hormonal and practical aspects of breastfeeding.

Why is nothing increasing my milk supply?

The key to increasing your milk supply is frequent stimulation and emptying of the breasts. This may take some time and it is important that you seek advice and support from a lactation consultant, your maternal and child health nurse or other health care professional skilled in breastfeeding management.

What deficiency causes low milk supply?

Deficiencies in certain key nutrients can also play a role in low milk supply. Many in the United States are low in iron, putting breastfeeding parents at risk for exhaustion and depression. Low iron levels are also a risk factor. Mothers may be low in other important nutrients as well: vitamins D and B12.

How to tell if breast milk is drying up?

The following are signs your baby isn’t getting enough milk:

1. Poor weight gain. It’s normal for newborns to lose 5% to 7% of their birth weight in the first few days – some lose up to 10%.
2. Insufficient, wet or dirty nappies.
3. Dehydration.

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).

How to boost 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 hormone increases milk production?

Prolactin is the hormone that produces milk. You’ll notice your milk production increases dramatically at this stage. It’s often referred to as milk “coming in.” Your breasts are often engorged (or overly full of milk) to the point where they feel sore, painful or tender.

What are the side effects of low estrogen while breastfeeding?

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.

What causes a drastic drop in milk supply?

A decrease in milk supply can be caused by a variety of different factors. A very common (and solvable) problem is not pumping or feeding enough. Because milk production works on a supply and demand basis, not pumping on a frequent schedule will signal to your body that it does not need to produce milk.

Do soft breasts mean low milk supply?

Your breasts feel softer
This happens as your milk supply adjusts to your baby’s needs. 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.

Does low estrogen affect milk supply?

That’s because when estrogen and progesterone levels are high during pregnancy, they prevent prolactin from binding to receptors that would stimulate the breasts to release milk. Once estrogen and progesterone levels drop after birth, prolactin takes over breast milk production.