What hormones are high and low during breastfeeding?

Understanding Hormones During Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is a complex physiological process that is heavily influenced by hormonal changes in a woman’s body. After childbirth, the balance of hormones shifts dramatically, playing a crucial role in milk production and the breastfeeding experience.
High Hormones: Prolactin and Oxytocin
Two hormones are particularly significant during breastfeeding: prolactin and oxytocin.
– Prolactin is the primary hormone responsible for milk production. After the delivery of the baby and placenta, levels of estrogen and progesterone drop sharply, which allows prolactin levels to rise. This increase signals the body to start producing milk, typically within a few days postpartum . Prolactin not only stimulates milk synthesis but also helps maintain milk supply as long as breastfeeding continues.
– Oxytocin, often referred to as the “love hormone,” is crucial for the ejection of milk during breastfeeding. When a baby suckles, sensory signals from the nipple trigger the release of oxytocin from the brain. This hormone causes the muscles around the milk ducts to contract, facilitating the flow of milk to the baby . Oxytocin also promotes bonding between mother and child, enhancing the emotional connection during breastfeeding.
Low Hormones: Estrogen and Progesterone
In contrast, levels of estrogen and progesterone significantly decrease after childbirth.
– During pregnancy, these hormones are at their peak, primarily produced by the placenta. However, once the placenta is delivered, estrogen and progesterone levels plummet to levels similar to those seen in menopause . This drop is essential for initiating lactation, as it removes the hormonal blockade that prevents milk production.
– The low levels of estrogen during breastfeeding can lead to various physiological changes, including a temporary suppression of ovulation. This is why many breastfeeding mothers experience a delay in the return of their menstrual cycles, a phenomenon often referred to as lactational amenorrhea.
The Hormonal Dance of Lactation
The interplay between these hormones creates a delicate balance that supports breastfeeding. As prolactin levels rise, they promote milk production, while oxytocin facilitates the release of that milk. The significant drop in estrogen and progesterone not only allows for these processes to occur but also contributes to the unique postpartum experience of mothers.
In summary, breastfeeding is governed by a dynamic hormonal environment where prolactin and oxytocin are elevated to support milk production and ejection, while estrogen and progesterone are notably low, paving the way for successful lactation. This hormonal orchestration not only nourishes the infant but also fosters a deep emotional bond between mother and child.

What hormones are high while breastfeeding?

A hormone called Prolactin secreted by the pituitary gland in the brain is responsible for the alveoli making milk. Prolactin rises when the baby suckles. There is another hormone called Oxytocin that causes tiny muscles around the alveoli to squeeze the milk via small tubes called milk ducts.

Is your LH high when breastfeeding?

The luteinizing hormone (LH) remains low during lactation but at weaning, LH concentrations increase as prolactin levels decrease.

How do I know if I am ovulating while breastfeeding?

Another sign that you may be ovulating again is that your cervical mucous temporarily becomes thicker while breastfeeding. Cramping, increased libido, and breast tenderness are other signs of ovulation while breastfeeding (though they could be signs of other things too!)

Is testosterone low when breastfeeding?

“Plus, levels of testosterone are also lower in breastfeeding women,” Bartos says.

What are the signs of low progesterone?

Symptoms of low progesterone in people who aren’t pregnant include:

• Irregular menstrual periods.
• Headaches.
• Difficulty conceiving.
• Mood changes, anxiety or depression.
• Trouble sleeping.
• Hot flashes.
• Bloating or weight gain.

What is the happy hormone while breastfeeding?

The release of oxytocin, often called the “bonding hormone,” represents one of the most profound psychological benefits of breastfeeding. Oxytocin is a neurochemical released during breastfeeding and skin-to-skin contact, playing a pivotal role in fostering a deep emotional connection between the mother and her baby.

What are the symptoms of low estrogen while breastfeeding?

In addition, estrogen levels drop after childbirth and during breastfeeding, which can result in symptoms that often mimic those experienced during the perimenopause, such as hot flushes, headaches, or joint pains.

Does high LH mean more fertile?

It also triggers the release of an egg from the ovary. This is called ovulation. LH levels quickly rise just before ovulation. If you’re trying to have a baby, this monthly increase in LH tells you when you’re most likely to become pregnant.

Is progesterone high or low while breastfeeding?

After birth, progesterone levels decline sharply. Since progesterone had been inhibiting the role of prolactin in milk production during pregnancy, this rapid drop in progesterone allows prolactin to become engaged in the lactation process.

How to balance your hormones while breastfeeding?

If you are looking for how to balance your hormones while breastfeeding, get back to the basics. Prioritize nourishing food, gentle movement, sleep (as you are able), and foundational supplements to support your own health and the health of your newborn.