Why do I feel drained when breastfeeding?

Understanding the Drain of Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is often portrayed as a rewarding and beautiful experience between a mother and her child. However, many mothers report feelings of exhaustion and being drained during and after this intimate act. Understanding the physiological, emotional, and psychological factors at play can shed light on why this occurs.
Physiological Factors
Nutritional Demands: Breastfeeding is a highly demanding process on a mother’s body. It requires significant energy and nutrients to produce milk. According to the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, breastfeeding mothers need an additional 450 to 500 calories per day. If these nutritional needs are not met, mothers may experience fatigue.
Hormonal Changes: The act of breastfeeding triggers the release of several hormones, including oxytocin and prolactin. Oxytocin, often referred to as the “love hormone,” promotes bonding and maternal instincts, but it can also contribute to feelings of relaxation and drowsiness. Prolactin is responsible for milk production and can further induce a sense of tiredness.
Physical Fatigue: The physical act of breastfeeding can be taxing. Mothers often find themselves in awkward positions for extended periods, which can lead to muscle strain and fatigue. Additionally, frequent feedings, especially in the early weeks, can disrupt sleep patterns, further contributing to feelings of exhaustion.
Emotional and Psychological Factors
Bonding and Attachment: While breastfeeding fosters a strong bond between mother and child, the emotional labor involved can be draining. Mothers may feel a mix of joy and anxiety about meeting their baby’s needs, which can lead to emotional fatigue. The responsibility of nurturing a new life can weigh heavily on a mother’s psyche, especially in the early stages of motherhood.
Postpartum Mood Changes: Many women experience mood swings or postpartum depression, which can exacerbate feelings of being drained while breastfeeding. The emotional highs and lows associated with new motherhood can leave mothers feeling overwhelmed and fatigued.
Practical Implications
Self-Care is Essential: It’s crucial for new mothers to prioritize self-care. Ensuring adequate nutrition, staying hydrated, and seeking support from family and friends can help mitigate feelings of fatigue. Additionally, taking breaks when possible and finding comfortable breastfeeding positions can alleviate physical strain.
Seek Professional Guidance: If feelings of exhaustion persist, it’s advisable for mothers to consult healthcare providers. They can offer personalized guidance and check for any underlying health issues, such as anemia or thyroid problems, which can contribute to fatigue.
Conclusion
Feeling drained while breastfeeding is a common experience, influenced by a complex interplay of physiological, emotional, and psychological factors. Recognizing and addressing these factors can help mothers navigate the challenges of breastfeeding while maintaining their well-being. Ultimately, prioritizing self-care and seeking support can make a significant difference in the breastfeeding journey.

How many hours should a breastfeeding mom sleep?

Like any other adult, a nursing mother should strive for 7 to 9 hours of sleep per night. She has to get adequate sleep in order to maintain her health and have the energy necessary to care for her child. She may benefit from short naps throughout the day to feel more rested.

Is breastfeeding emotionally draining?

However, despite the relatively high levels of prolonged breastfeeding, it is noteworthy that this did not guarantee a positive subjective experience relating to infant feeding: of women who were currently breastfeeding, 38% reported finding the overall experience of infant feeding stressful and 42% found it …

Is it normal to feel exhausted when breastfeeding?

Feelings of difficulty, exhaustion, and being overwhelmed are very common and normal, especially in the first few days and weeks after birth. Caring for a newborn baby is exhausting as well as amazing and rewarding – and it will get easier.

Do soft breasts mean low milk supply?

Your breasts feel softer
This happens as your milk supply adjusts to your baby’s needs. The initial breast fullness reduces in the first few weeks. At around 6 weeks, breast fullness is completely gone and your breasts may feel soft. This is completely normal and has no effect on your milk supply.

Does breastfeeding drain your body?

Breastfeeding fatigue is very real, and it’s not just because of those 4am feeds. Did you know that you burn up to 1000 calories per day while breastfeeding? In fact, breastfeeding mums exert up to 25 per cent of their energy to produce breast milk.

Is nursing emotionally draining?

The demanding nature of nursing, along with the emotional toll of dealing with patients’ suffering and loss, can significantly affect nurses’ physical and mental health. The constant exposure to traumatic events and the pressure to provide compassionate care can lead to emotional exhaustion and compassion fatigue.

How much energy is lost during breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding can also help you manage or lose your postpartum weight. Moms burn about 500 extra calories a day while producing breast milk, which could lead to faster weight loss after birth. Although that doesn’t mean breastfeeding is a weight loss miracle, it can jumpstart the process.

Does breastfeeding deplete you?

It has been observed that even if lactating mothers do not have an adequate nutritional status, they can produce sufficient and high-quality human milk, although this may result in a depletion of maternal reserves.

Is it normal to feel empty while breastfeeding?

After a few weeks, many mothers find that their breasts have settled down and no longer feel as full. No matter their size, your breasts will still make the milk your baby needs. If your breasts feel empty towards the end of the day, that can be normal too.

How can I get my energy back while breastfeeding?

Healthy snack ideas for breastfeeding mums
The following snacks are quick and simple to make, and will give you energy: fresh fruit with a handful of unsalted nuts. lower-fat, lower-sugar yoghurts or fromage frais. hummus with bread or vegetable sticks.