What happens to mother when stopping breastfeeding?

The Emotional and Physical Transition of Stopping Breastfeeding
Stopping breastfeeding is a significant transition for mothers, marked by a complex interplay of emotional and physical changes. This process can evoke a range of feelings and bodily responses, often described as a “hormonal roller coaster.”
Emotional Impact
Many mothers report experiencing heightened emotions when they stop breastfeeding. Feelings of sadness, anxiety, and even guilt can surface as they navigate this change. One mother shared that quitting breastfeeding left her feeling nauseous, weepy, and reminiscent of the emotional upheaval experienced during the early days of motherhood. This emotional response is largely attributed to hormonal fluctuations. During breastfeeding, hormones like prolactin and oxytocin play crucial roles in milk production and maternal bonding. When breastfeeding ceases, the sudden drop in these hormones can lead to mood swings and emotional distress.
Physical Changes
Physically, the cessation of breastfeeding can lead to several discomforts. Mothers may experience engorgement, which occurs when the breasts become overly full of milk. This can be painful and may require measures such as cold compresses or over-the-counter pain relief. In some cases, abrupt weaning can lead to complications like mastitis, an infection of the breast tissue that can cause swelling, redness, and fever.
To mitigate these physical challenges, experts often recommend a gradual reduction in breastfeeding sessions rather than stopping abruptly. This approach not only eases the mother’s discomfort but also helps the baby adjust to the change more smoothly.
Long-Term Considerations
The decision to stop breastfeeding is deeply personal and can be influenced by various factors, including the mother’s physical comfort, lifestyle changes, and the baby’s readiness. While some mothers may feel relieved to regain their independence and control over their bodies, others may mourn the end of this intimate bonding experience.
Ultimately, the journey of stopping breastfeeding is unique for each mother, shaped by her circumstances, emotional resilience, and support systems. As mothers navigate this transition, understanding the potential emotional and physical effects can help them prepare for and manage the changes ahead.

What are the side effects of not breastfeeding to the mother?

Not breastfeeding or weaning prematurely is associated with health risks for mothers as well as for infants. Epidemiologic data suggest that women who do not breastfeed face higher risk of breast cancer and ovarian cancer, as well as obesity, type 2 diabetes, metabolic syndrome, and cardiovascular disease.

What does breastfeeding do to a woman’s hormones?

On top of that, breastfeeding mimics menopause due to the production of the milk-producing hormone, prolactin, temporarily blocking estrogen production, which keeps your estrogen levels low (1). Decreased estrogen levels impact vaginal tissue, temporarily decreasing elasticity, blood flow, and thinning of the tissue.

What happens to your breasts when 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 side effects of stopping breastfeeding suddenly?

If you stop breastfeeding quickly, your breasts might fill with milk (engorge) and get very uncomfortable. To prevent engorged breasts, you might need to express milk sometimes. Express just enough for comfort. If you express too much, it won’t reduce your milk supply and weaning can take longer.

What is the healthiest age to stop breastfeeding?

The World Health Organization recommends that all babies be exclusively breastfed for 6 months, then gradually introduced to appropriate foods after 6 months while continuing to breastfeed for 2 years or beyond. Stopping breastfeeding is called weaning. It is up to you and your baby to decide when the time is right.

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.

What happens to your hormones when you stop breastfeeding?

As breastfeeding ends, both prolactin and oxytocin levels will lower – and so may your mood and sense of wellbeing. It may last a few days, or it may go on for longer.

What are the effects of mother stopping 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.”

Do you gain weight when you stop breastfeeding?

Thanks to biological and behavioral changes, it’s totally normal to gain weight when you stop breastfeeding. “It’s really common that women will stop breastfeeding and their weight goes up,” G. Thomas Ruiz, M.D., an ob/gyn at MemorialCare Orange Coast Medical Center in Fountain Valley, California, tells SELF.

What happens to your body when you stop 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.