How to prepare for breastfeeding with PCOS?

Understanding PCOS and Its Impact on Breastfeeding
Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal disorder that can significantly affect a woman’s reproductive health, including her ability to breastfeed. Women with PCOS may face unique challenges when it comes to lactation, but with the right preparation and support, they can successfully navigate these hurdles.
Preparing for Breastfeeding with PCOS
1. Educate Yourself About PCOS and Breastfeeding:
Understanding how PCOS can influence breastfeeding is crucial. Research indicates that women with PCOS may experience difficulties with milk supply due to hormonal imbalances associated with the condition. This knowledge can help you set realistic expectations and prepare for potential challenges.
2. Consult Healthcare Professionals:
Before your baby arrives, it’s beneficial to consult with healthcare providers, including obstetricians and lactation consultants. They can provide tailored advice based on your specific situation. A lactation consultant can help you develop a breastfeeding plan that considers your PCOS and any related issues.
3. Focus on Nutrition and Lifestyle:
Maintaining a balanced diet and a healthy lifestyle can positively impact your breastfeeding experience. Women managing PCOS often find that a diet rich in whole foods, combined with regular exercise, helps regulate hormones and may improve milk supply. Consider incorporating foods that support lactation, such as oats, nuts, and leafy greens.
4. Consider Breastfeeding Aids:
Investing in a good breast pump can be beneficial, especially if you anticipate challenges with milk supply. A breast pump allows you to express milk regularly, which can help stimulate production. Additionally, having breastfeeding accessories like nipple cream can alleviate discomfort, which is a common issue for many new mothers, including those with PCOS.
5. Build a Support Network:
Connecting with other mothers who have PCOS can provide emotional support and practical tips. Online forums and local support groups can be invaluable resources for sharing experiences and strategies for successful breastfeeding.
6. Monitor Your Milk Supply:
After your baby is born, keep an eye on your milk supply. If you notice any issues, don’t hesitate to reach out to a lactation consultant for assistance. They can offer techniques to enhance milk production, such as frequent breastfeeding or pumping sessions.
7. Be Mindful of Medications:
If you were taking medications for PCOS during pregnancy, discuss with your healthcare provider whether they are safe for breastfeeding. Some medications, like Metformin, are generally considered safe, but it’s essential to confirm this with your doctor.
Conclusion
Breastfeeding with PCOS may present unique challenges, but with proper preparation and support, it is entirely possible to have a successful breastfeeding journey. By educating yourself, consulting with professionals, focusing on nutrition, and building a supportive community, you can enhance your chances of overcoming the hurdles associated with PCOS and enjoy the rewarding experience of breastfeeding your baby.

What does PCOS discharge look like?

Symptoms: there are no noticeable symptoms in around half of women with the condition, and there is usually no vaginal soreness or itching. Symptoms may include a greyish-white, thin and watery vaginal discharge with a strong fishy smell, especially after sex.

Can you take metformin for PCOS while breastfeeding?

Metformin passes into breast milk in tiny amounts and has not been linked with side effects in any breastfed babies. Metformin would not be expected to cause side effects but contact your health visitor, midwife, pharmacist or doctor as soon as possible if your baby: is not feeding as well as usual.

Does inositol increase milk supply?

Myo-Inositol (specifically for PCOS mommas)
It’s a major ingredient in breast milk and taking it supplementally can help boost breast milk production and increase baby’s brain health.

What does PCOS do to breasts?

Because there is a distinct degree of hyperandrogenism in PCOS, this hyperandrogenism can exert inhibitory effects on progesterone and consequently leads to increase mammary epithelial cell proliferation, breast growth, and fibrocystic breast formation [25,26,27,28,29].

How to successfully breastfeed with PCOS?

How To Regulate Milk Production With PCOS

1. Diet. Losing 5% of your body weight can have a positive effect on your milk production.
2. Exercise. If you’re having trouble lactating, try incorporating some exercise into your daily routine.
3. Stress management. High levels of stress have a negative impact on your milk production.

How to prepare for a baby with PCOS?

According to the international evidence-based guideline for the assessment and management of PCOS, adopting a healthy lifestyle – including being in the healthy weight range, not smoking, cutting back on alcohol, eating a healthy diet, getting plenty of regular exercise and enough sleep – is the first thing to do to …

What is the best age to have a baby with PCOS?

As women age, the risk of health complications during pregnancy also increases. For those with PCOS, these risks are compounded. Therefore, while the best age to get pregnant for women with PCOS is ideally in their 20s to mid-thirties due to higher fertility rates and better egg quality and decreased morbidity.

Is breastfeeding harder with PCOS?

PCOS can cause a low milk supply. This is due to hormonal imbalances, which occur with the condition, and can interfere with milk production. Excess estrogen or testosterone from PCOS can work against milk production.

What shape are PCOS breasts?

Upon assessment, many women with PCOS describe little or no breast changes during the pregnancy, and examination reveals breasts that are tubular in shape, widely spaced, or asymmetrical.