Does weaning breastfeeding cause depression?

Understanding Post-Weaning Depression
The transition from breastfeeding to weaning can be a significant emotional and physical shift for many mothers, and it is increasingly recognized that this process can lead to feelings of depression and anxiety. While some women may experience a smooth transition, others find themselves grappling with a range of emotional challenges that can manifest as post-weaning depression.
The Hormonal Shift
One of the primary factors contributing to post-weaning depression is the hormonal changes that occur when breastfeeding ceases. During breastfeeding, hormones such as oxytocin and prolactin play crucial roles in promoting relaxation and reducing stress. When a mother stops breastfeeding, the levels of these hormones drop significantly, which can lead to feelings of sadness and irritability. This hormonal fluctuation can be likened to the emotional ups and downs experienced during the menstrual cycle, but for some, the intensity and duration of these feelings can be much more pronounced.
Emotional and Psychological Factors
Beyond the biological changes, the psychological impact of weaning can also be profound. For many mothers, breastfeeding is not just a physical act but a deeply emotional bond with their child. The act of weaning can create a sense of loss or separation, leading to feelings of sadness and anxiety. This emotional turmoil can be exacerbated if the weaning process is abrupt rather than gradual, as sudden changes can heighten stress and emotional distress.
Symptoms and Duration
Mothers who experience post-weaning depression may report a variety of symptoms, including insomnia, night sweats, irritability, and mood swings. While these feelings are often temporary and may resolve within a few weeks, some women may find that their symptoms are more severe and require professional treatment. It is not uncommon for mothers to feel tearful or mildly depressed during this transition, and recognizing these feelings as a normal part of the weaning process is essential.
Seeking Support
For those who find themselves struggling with post-weaning depression, it is crucial to seek support. Whether through friends, family, or professional counseling, talking about these feelings can help alleviate some of the emotional burden. Additionally, understanding that these feelings are a common experience can provide comfort and validation during a challenging time.
In conclusion, while weaning from breastfeeding can be a joyful milestone, it can also trigger significant emotional responses, including depression. Awareness of the potential for post-weaning depression can help mothers prepare for this transition and seek the necessary support to navigate their feelings effectively.

Why is it mentally hard to stop breastfeeding?

The emotional impact of weaning
It’s not just about the physical act of nursing; it’s about letting go of a unique form of closeness and dependency. The process of weaning can also trigger feelings of guilt or doubt. Questions like “Am I doing this too soon?” or “Am I being selfish?” are common.

How long do weaning blues last?

It’s common for weaning blues to persist for up to eight weeks. However, if you don’t start to feel better after a month or so, don’t hesitate to seek support from a medical professional, naturopath, or hormone specialist.

How long does anxiety from weaning last?

It’s not unusual to feel tearful, sad or mildly depressed after weaning; some mothers also experience irritability, anxiety, or mood swings. These feelings are usually short-term and should go away in a few weeks, but some mothers experience more severe symptoms that require treatment.

What does your body do when you stop breastfeeding?

To make the process easier for you and your child, wean over several weeks or more. As you slowly stop breastfeeding, your body will start producing less breast milk and eventually your body will no longer make breast milk.

What are the side effects of weaning off 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.

What are the side effects of drying up breast milk?

Fever (temperature of 100.4°F or higher) • Chills • Aches • Weakness • Breast pain, redness or warmth while weaning.

What hormones change while weaning 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.”

How long does it take to feel normal after stopping breastfeeding?

Usually, you will feel back to normal after a few weeks but if you feel like your mood is very low it is important to contact your GP or maternal child health nurse.

Can stopping breastfeeding make you depressed?

Hormonal Changes
It can be really common to feel down or weepy – or even depressed – after weaning. And for some, the feelings are strong and may mean there is a sense of anxiety, insomnia, anger, swings between high and low moods.

How long do the weaning blues last?

It’s common for weaning blues to persist for up to eight weeks. However, if you don’t start to feel better after a month or so, don’t hesitate to seek support from a medical professional, naturopath, or hormone specialist.