Is it normal to get chills when breastfeeding?

Understanding Chills During Breastfeeding
Experiencing chills while breastfeeding can be a surprising and concerning symptom for many new mothers. While it may feel unusual, it is not uncommon and can stem from various physiological and emotional factors.
Postpartum Chills Explained
One of the primary reasons mothers report chills during breastfeeding is related to postpartum chills, which are often experienced shortly after giving birth. This phenomenon can manifest as intense shivering or a feeling of coldness, even in a warm environment. The body undergoes significant hormonal and physical changes during and after childbirth, which can lead to these chills. They are generally considered a normal response as the body adjusts to the dramatic shifts in hormone levels and the physical demands of motherhood.
Hormonal Fluctuations and Milk Letdown
Another contributing factor to chills during breastfeeding is the hormonal fluctuations that occur when a mother begins to nurse. The release of oxytocin, often referred to as the “love hormone,” during breastfeeding can trigger a range of physical responses, including chills. This hormone not only facilitates milk letdown but can also induce feelings of relaxation and warmth, which may paradoxically lead to sensations of coldness or shivering in some women.
Emotional Responses and Relaxation
Breastfeeding is not just a physical act; it is also an emotional one. Many mothers experience a deep sense of bonding and relaxation while nursing, which can sometimes lead to a release of tension. This relaxation response can manifest as chills, particularly if the mother is feeling particularly vulnerable or emotional during the feeding.
When to Seek Help
While chills during breastfeeding can be normal, it is essential for mothers to be aware of their bodies. If the chills are accompanied by other symptoms such as fever, severe pain, or signs of infection, it may indicate a more serious condition, such as mastitis or another postpartum complication. In such cases, seeking medical advice is crucial.
In summary, while experiencing chills during breastfeeding can be unsettling, it is often a normal part of the postpartum experience. Understanding the underlying causes—ranging from hormonal changes to emotional responses—can help mothers navigate this phase with greater ease and reassurance.

When should I worry about postpartum chills?

Most of the time, a case of the shakes is nothing to worry about. (There are a few symptoms your medical team will keep on their radar, mainly if your chills are accompanied by a fever, which could be one of the first signs of a potential postpartum infection.)

Why do I get the chills while 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.

What is chills in nursing?

Chills refers to feeling cold after being in a cold environment. The word can also refer to an episode of shivering along with paleness and feeling cold. Fever is an important part of the body’s defense against infection.

Can milk supply dry up at 4 months?

This 3-4 month timeframe is also a common time for breastfeeders to report a dip in supply because the less-than-optimal feeding finally catches up with them. If you have concerns about your baby’s latch scheduling a consult with an IBCLC who can assess your baby’s latch and oral function is your best course of action.

What is the hardest month of breastfeeding?

If you’ve been asking everyone you know when does breastfeeding get easier, you may be relieved to know that for most people, the first weeks are the trickiest. Many women feel that breastfeeding is easier and more manageable once their baby reaches six weeks.

How do you tell if you have a clogged duct or mastitis?

Mastitis usually only affects one breast, though it can happen in both. Although local symptoms are generally the same as with a clogged milk duct, there are some unique to mastitis, including: A fever of 101.3 or higher with chills and flu-like symptoms such as aching and malaise.

Do you get chills with a clogged milk duct?

Symptoms of plugged ducts, mastitis
Plugged duct symptoms progress gradually, and can include pain, a hard lump, a warm and painful localized spot or a wedge-shaped area of engorgement on the breast. Mastitis symptoms appear rapidly and include flu-like symptoms such as fever, chills, fatigue and body aches.

What are the early warning signs of mastitis?

Symptoms of mastitis
a burning pain in your breast – you may feel this only when breastfeeding or it may be constant. nipple discharge, which may be white or contain streaks of blood. a lump or hard area on your breast. feeling tired, run down and feverish – you may have flu-like symptoms.

What is the 3 month breastfeeding crisis?

These increases occur around the same time for all babies, hence the term “3-months breastfeeding crisis”. This crisis is the most well-known because it is the most challenging for mothers. One reason is that this crisis, unlike others you may experience before, can last up to a month.

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.