Does stopping breastfeeding affect your mood?

The Emotional Impact of Stopping Breastfeeding
The decision to stop breastfeeding can be a significant transition for many mothers, not just physically but emotionally as well. Research indicates that this change can lead to notable shifts in mood, largely due to hormonal fluctuations and the psychological aspects of weaning.
Hormonal Changes and Mood
Breastfeeding is closely linked to the release of hormones such as oxytocin and prolactin, both of which play crucial roles in emotional well-being. Oxytocin, often referred to as the “love hormone,” is known for its ability to promote feelings of bonding and relaxation. Prolactin contributes to feelings of contentment and nurturing. When a mother stops breastfeeding, the levels of these hormones drop significantly, which can lead to feelings of anxiety, sadness, or even depression.
As mothers transition away from breastfeeding, they may experience a range of emotional responses. This period of weaning can trigger mood swings and feelings of loss, as the intimate connection established during breastfeeding is altered. The physical act of breastfeeding not only nourishes the child but also fosters a unique bond that can be difficult to replicate once it ends.
Psychological Effects
The psychological impact of stopping breastfeeding can be profound. Studies have shown that breastfeeding mothers often report lower levels of anxiety and negative mood compared to those who formula-feed. This suggests that the act of breastfeeding itself may serve as a protective factor against mood disturbances. Consequently, when this protective mechanism is removed, mothers may find themselves more vulnerable to emotional challenges.
Moreover, the stress of adjusting to a new feeding routine can exacerbate feelings of anxiety or sadness. The transition may also coincide with other life changes, such as returning to work or managing a busy household, which can compound emotional stress.
Coping with Mood Changes
For mothers experiencing mood shifts after stopping breastfeeding, it is essential to recognize that these feelings are valid and common. Engaging in self-care practices, seeking support from friends or family, and maintaining open communication with healthcare providers can be beneficial. Some mothers may find it helpful to gradually wean rather than stopping abruptly, allowing their bodies and emotions to adjust more smoothly.
In conclusion, stopping breastfeeding can indeed affect a mother’s mood due to hormonal changes and the emotional significance of the breastfeeding relationship. Understanding these dynamics can help mothers navigate this transition with greater awareness and support.

What are the emotional effects of stopping breastfeeding?

Feeling down after weaning is normal. If you’re feeling sad, irritable, or just not like yourself after stopping breastfeeding, know that you’re not alone. Many moms go through this and it’s called post-weaning depression. It’s okay to not feel okay right now.

What happens to your breasts if you don’t breastfeed?

You may have some milk leak from your breasts, and your breasts may feel sore and swollen. This is called engorgement. It usually gets better after several days. Over time, your body will stop making milk if you don’t breastfeed or pump.

What are the negative effects of not breastfeeding?

For infants, not being breastfed is associated with an increased incidence of infectious morbidity, including otitis media, gastroenteritis, and pneumonia, as well as elevated risks of childhood obesity, type 1 and type 2 diabetes, leukemia, and sudden infant death syndrome (SIDS).

What are the side effects of stopping breastfeeding?

Some parents may also experience nausea, headaches, dizziness, and fatigue when weaning. These symptoms are due to the shift in your body’s hormones during breastfeeding and possible lifestyle changes.

What happens to your brain when you stop breastfeeding?

A drop in oxytocin: “Oxytocin, which [rises] during breastfeeding, decreases with weaning,” explains Dr. Saltz. “This being the bonding, feel-good hormone means [someone] may miss the oxytocin good feelings and experience a more intense sense of loss and sadness.”

What are the psychological effects of not breastfeeding?

In a longitudinal study conducted by Merjonen and colleagues (2011), it was found adults who were not breastfed during infancy demonstrated higher levels of hostility and aggression. Infants who are breastfed also demonstrate more ‘vigour’ and intense reactions compared to bottle-fed infants.

How do you feel when you stop breastfeeding?

This may occur through sadness or grief like feelings from stopping breastfeeding itself. But also the lack of the breastfeeding hormones Oxytocin, and Prolactin, in particular, can make some mums feel like they are on an emotional roller coaster for a while, maybe feeling anxious at times or even irritable.

What happens to hormones when you stop breastfeeding?

“As women wean, the oxytocin stores start to go back to non-pregnant levels,” O’Neill says. “Oxytocin is known as the love hormone, so as it decreases you may feel sad, irritable or grumpy. Many women attribute this to fatigue, but the feeling is real and regulated by our hormones.”

Does your body change after you stop breastfeeding?

Your body will go through many changes when you stop breastfeeding. Expect differences in: Breast size and shape. Your breasts will probably get smaller again, although it may take several months.

How long does it take for hormones to return 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.