Is it normal to get chills after breastfeeding?

Understanding Chills After Breastfeeding
Experiencing chills after breastfeeding can be a surprising and concerning symptom for many new mothers. While it may feel alarming, it is often a normal response that can be attributed to several physiological factors.
Postpartum Chills Explained
Postpartum chills are a phenomenon that some women encounter shortly after giving birth. This intense shivering can occur due to hormonal fluctuations, changes in body temperature regulation, or even the body’s response to the physical exertion of labor. Although these chills are more commonly associated with the immediate postpartum period, they can also manifest during breastfeeding sessions.
Causes of Chills During Breastfeeding
Several reasons can explain why a mother might feel chills while nursing. One primary factor is the body’s adjustment to the hormonal changes that occur during breastfeeding. The release of oxytocin, which helps with milk ejection, can also lead to sensations of warmth followed by chills as the body stabilizes its temperature.
Additionally, dehydration and nutrient deficiencies can play a significant role. Many new mothers may not consume enough fluids or calories while caring for their newborns, leading to feelings of coldness or shakiness. Iron deficiency is particularly common postpartum, affecting a large percentage of women, which can also contribute to these symptoms.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While chills after breastfeeding can be normal, it is essential to monitor the situation. If the chills are accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, severe pain, or signs of infection, it may indicate a condition like mastitis, which requires medical attention. Mastitis can present flu-like symptoms and should not be overlooked.
Managing Chills
To alleviate chills during breastfeeding, mothers are encouraged to stay hydrated and maintain a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients. Keeping a warm blanket nearby or dressing in layers can also help manage body temperature during nursing sessions.
In summary, while chills after breastfeeding can be unsettling, they are often a normal part of the postpartum experience. Understanding the underlying causes and taking proactive steps can help new mothers navigate this phase with greater ease and comfort.

Can breastfeeding cause chills and body aches?

Mastitis is an inflammation of the breast tissue. It often affects women who are breastfeeding. Symptoms include hot, swollen breasts, red streaks on the breasts, and body aches and chills.

What is the 5 5 5 rule for postpartum?

The 5-5-5 postpartum rule prescribes 15 days of rest for moms following childbirth – five days in the bed, five days on the bed and five days around the bed. It encourages moms to take a break from housework and caring for older children, and simply spend time with the new baby.

Why does breastfeeding give me chills?

What is breast mastitis? May, or may not, involve an infection. Involves redness, tenderness and heat in the breast, along with a fever and flu-like symptoms such as nausea, aches and chills. Usually occurs within the first six weeks of breastfeeding, but can occur anytime.

Why do I feel weird after breastfeeding?

D-MER, or dysphoric milk ejection reflex, is a condition that affects people who are lactating. It causes you to have intense negative feelings when your milk lets down during a feeding. Research is still ongoing, but there are coping methods available to help.

What does the beginning of mastitis feel like?

What are some symptoms of mastitis? You might have a red, sore area on your breast. Sometimes it feels like getting the flu. You might feel hot and cold with a fever, and have general body aches.

Why do I feel feverish after breastfeeding?

Besides causing swelling and redness, mastitis causes breast pain and warmth. An infection also can cause fever and chills. Mastitis most often affects people who are breastfeeding. This is called lactation mastitis.

Why do I get the chills postpartum?

It is thought to be a result of a nervous system response. It may also be related to fluid shifts and the actual strenuous work of labor. It is considered a normal response and there is no accompanying fever. A fever would indicate an infection.

Can you get flu-like symptoms after stopping breastfeeding?

When should I call the doctor? Call your doctor if you have any of these flu-like symptoms that may be due to mastitis: Fever (temperature of 100.4°F or higher) • Chills • Aches • Weakness • Breast pain, redness or warmth while weaning.

Does breastfeeding affect body temperature?

This statement is proven by research,2 which shows an increase in body temperature in hypothermic infants after 1 h of early breastfeeding initiation even though the baby has not been fully breastfed with an increase in temperature of 0.1–0.3 °C.

Can postpartum hormones cause shivering?

“These drastic shifts may cause shivering after delivery, and women may begin to get increased cramping. Some women experience hot flashes,” says Lizabeth A. Kopp, M.D., an OB/GYN at Hackensack.