Why do I feel different when breastfeeding?

Understanding the Emotional Landscape of Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is often portrayed as a serene and nurturing experience, yet many mothers report feeling a complex mix of emotions during this intimate act. The sensations and feelings associated with breastfeeding can vary widely, influenced by physical, psychological, and social factors.
The Physical Experience
For many mothers, breastfeeding can be a wonderful yet challenging journey. The initial days and weeks can be particularly taxing, as both mother and baby are learning the ropes. New mothers often describe the experience as requiring significant mental energy and time, which can lead to feelings of frustration or exhaustion. The physical sensations can range from tenderness and discomfort to a profound sense of connection with the baby. This duality can create a feeling of being overwhelmed, as mothers navigate the physical demands of nursing alongside their emotional responses.
Emotional Responses
Interestingly, not all mothers experience breastfeeding as a purely positive bonding moment. Research indicates that up to one in five women report feelings of aversion during breastfeeding. This aversion can manifest as discomfort or even resentment, complicating the emotional landscape of what is often expected to be a joyful experience. Such feelings can lead to guilt, as mothers grapple with the societal expectation that breastfeeding should always be a blissful experience.
Bonding and Psychological Effects
Despite the challenges, breastfeeding is known to foster a unique bond between mother and child. The act of nursing releases hormones such as oxytocin, which can enhance feelings of love and attachment. However, the psychological effects of breastfeeding extend beyond the immediate bond. Studies have shown that breastfeeding can influence maternal mental health, potentially reducing the risk of postpartum depression. This complex interplay of emotions can leave mothers feeling different—sometimes euphoric, sometimes conflicted—during and after breastfeeding sessions.
Social and Support Factors
The experience of breastfeeding is also shaped by external factors, including societal support and family dynamics. Mothers who receive encouragement and practical support from their partners, family, and healthcare providers often report a more positive breastfeeding experience. Conversely, a lack of support can exacerbate feelings of isolation and stress, further complicating the emotional experience of breastfeeding.
In conclusion, feeling different while breastfeeding is a multifaceted experience influenced by physical sensations, emotional responses, and social dynamics. Each mother’s journey is unique, marked by a blend of joy, challenge, and sometimes conflicting feelings. Understanding these complexities can help mothers navigate their breastfeeding experiences with greater awareness and compassion for themselves.

Does breastfeeding feel different?

Keep in mind that every new mom’s experience is different. If you’re having trouble breastfeeding or it feels painful, reach out to a lactation consultant, your child’s pediatrician or your OB/GYN for guidance.

What is the hardest stage of breastfeeding?

Many mothers find the first two to three weeks of breastfeeding to be the most challenging. This is when mothers may be tempted to stop due to ongoing challenges. Most mothers who persist find that the rewards are gratifying and long-term, for both themselves and their babies.

How long does it take for your body to adjust to breastfeeding?

On day 4, manage engorgement and expect changes in baby’s bowel movements. On day 5, expect your baby and your body to start adjusting to breastfeeding. Between days 6 and 10, start settling into a more predictable breastfeeding routine.

Why do I get a weird feeling when I breastfeed?

It’s due to a hormonal fluctuation of dopamine. For some women, it is momentary. For others, it is incapacitating, making it difficult to breastfeed. Dysfunctional Milk Ejection Reflex is a real condition.

How long does it take for hormones to balance after breastfeeding?

The return to pre-pregnancy hormone levels can vary greatly, but generally hormones will normalize within three to six months. If you are breastfeeding, as you wean from it, your prolactin and oxytocin levels will drop—potentially leaving you feeling sad, anxious or irritable.

How long does it take your body to adjust after breastfeeding?

Often your hormones settle within a few weeks and you and your child adjust to a new rhythm where breastfeeding is no longer part of your current story. These feelings of sadness and general lowness that can happen after weaning are normally temporary. Being gentle and patient with yourself is important.

What are the weird symptoms of breastfeeding?

In the first few days and even weeks, it can feel like breastfeeding takes a lot of time and mental energy, but it will get easier.

• Breastfeeding Can Hurt.
• Newborns Like to Nurse Often.
• Babies Can Reject Breastfeeding.
• Breasts Can Leak Milk.
• Breastfeeding Burns Calories.
• You May Get Uterine Cramps.

What are the negative effects of breastfeeding?

5 Side Effects of Breastfeeding

• Back Pain: Think about it—you’re hunched over your baby, in an awkward position.
• Bruising: Yep, your little tike can cause some big bruises on your breasts.
• Carpal Tunnel: Carpal tunnel syndrome can be a problem for pregnant women, but it can also be a problem post-birth.

Does breastfeeding cause emotional changes?

While breastfeeding is associated with maternal mood and postpartum depression, it is difficult to know whether it is breastfeeding or maternal mood or affect that is driving (causing) the effects due to the complex relation between breastfeeding and maternal mood and affect.

What is dysregulated breastfeeding?

Because a vigorous sucking pattern without stopping is a new descriptor for a dysregulated breastfeeding pattern, this study has identified a behavior that—if future research is supportive—care providers and lactation specialists should assess.