Why do I feel dizzy and nauseous while breastfeeding?

Understanding Dizziness and Nausea While Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is often portrayed as a serene bonding experience between mother and child, but for some women, it can be accompanied by feelings of dizziness and nausea. These sensations can be alarming and may detract from the joy of nursing. Understanding the underlying causes can help mothers manage these symptoms effectively.
Hormonal Changes and Physical Responses
One of the primary reasons for nausea during breastfeeding is the release of oxytocin, a hormone that plays a crucial role in milk let-down. While oxytocin facilitates breastfeeding, it can also trigger nausea in some women. This reaction is linked to the hormone’s influence on the digestive system, as it is associated with various gut hormones that can induce feelings of sickness .
Additionally, the physical act of breastfeeding can lead to shifts in blood flow. When a mother is nursing, blood is redirected towards the breasts, which can result in reduced blood flow to the brain, causing dizziness or lightheadedness. This phenomenon is particularly pronounced if the mother is dehydrated or has not eaten adequately before breastfeeding.
Nutritional Factors
Nutrition plays a significant role in how a mother feels while breastfeeding. The body requires an extra 400 to 500 calories per day to support milk production. If a mother is not meeting these caloric needs, she may experience low blood sugar, which can lead to feelings of nausea and dizziness. It’s essential for breastfeeding mothers to maintain a balanced diet and stay hydrated to prevent these uncomfortable symptoms.
Stress and Fatigue
Breastfeeding can be physically and emotionally demanding, especially for new mothers who may already be experiencing stress and fatigue. Feelings of exhaustion can exacerbate dizziness and nausea, particularly if a mother is nursing late in the day when energy levels are typically lower. Managing stress through adequate rest and self-care can help alleviate these symptoms.
Conclusion
Feeling dizzy and nauseous while breastfeeding is not uncommon and can stem from a variety of factors, including hormonal changes, nutritional deficiencies, and physical responses to the act of nursing. Mothers experiencing these symptoms should consider their diet, hydration, and overall well-being. If symptoms persist or worsen, consulting a healthcare professional is advisable to rule out any underlying health issues. By addressing these factors, mothers can enhance their breastfeeding experience and focus on the precious moments with their little ones.

Why do I feel weird 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.

Why is breastfeeding making me nauseous?

It goes away for most (but not all) moms by the end of the 6th-8th week. If nausea during breastfeeding begins when baby is older, consider the possibility of pregnancy. Nausea that occurs with the milk let-down may be related to the release of oxytocin.

What was your first pregnancy symptoms while breastfeeding?

However, some symptoms that may indicate a pregnancy while breastfeeding include: Tiredness. Missed or late period. Sore breasts.

What are the symptoms of low estrogen while breastfeeding?

Estrogen: All women have low levels of estrogen for the first couple of months after giving birth. Continued breastfeeding extends this period for at least six months. For a few women, lower levels may last as long as they are nursing. Lower estrogen levels may cause vaginal dryness, tightness and tenderness.

Can breastfeeding make you dizzy?

After birth, breastfeeding can also reduce your blood sugar levels. This can cause your blood sugar levels to decrease and in turn cause postpartum dizziness.

Why do I feel dizzy and weak while breastfeeding?

During pregnancy, your body needs more fuel to provide energy for both you and your growing baby. After birth, breastfeeding can also reduce your blood sugar levels. This can cause your blood sugar levels to decrease and in turn cause postpartum dizziness.

Why do I feel nauseous postpartum?

Worries might get in the way of sleep, or could cause a decreased appetite. Some mothers might have trouble sitting still, or will experience symptoms such as dizziness or nausea. Oftentimes, postpartum anxiety can take the form of obsessive-compulsive disorder (OCD).

Can breastfeeding make you feel unwell?

Mastitis (inflammation of the breast) happens when a blocked milk duct is not relieved. It makes the breast feel hot and painful, and can make you feel very unwell with flu-like symptoms.

Can breastfeeding hormones make you feel sick?

Milk ejection can be associated with different sensations that vary dramatically between women. These may be localised to the breast such as a ‘drawing’ pain or tingling, to more systemic sensations such as nausea, thirst, fainting or even mental anxiety and depression8.

How can I tell if I’m pregnant if I’m breastfeeding?

Signs of Pregnancy While Breastfeeding

• A dip in your milk supply. “You’ll most likely experience a rather sudden drop in milk production when first becoming pregnant,” says Kurke.
• Nipple and breast tenderness. Breastfeeding alone can keep your chest and nipples feeling tender and sore.
• Fatigue.