Why do I get hot flashes while breastfeeding?

Understanding Hot Flashes While Breastfeeding
Experiencing hot flashes during breastfeeding can be an unsettling and uncomfortable phenomenon for many new mothers. These sudden sensations of warmth, often accompanied by sweating, are not uncommon and can be attributed to several physiological changes occurring in the body postpartum.
Hormonal Shifts Post-Pregnancy
One of the primary reasons for hot flashes during breastfeeding is the significant hormonal fluctuations that occur after childbirth. After delivery, estrogen levels drop sharply, which can lead to symptoms similar to those experienced during menopause, including hot flashes. This hormonal shift is a natural part of the postpartum process, as the body adjusts to the demands of lactation and recovery from pregnancy.
The Role of Lactation
Breastfeeding itself can also trigger hot flashes. The act of nursing stimulates the release of oxytocin, a hormone that not only promotes milk ejection but can also cause a temporary increase in body temperature. This physiological response is akin to the hot flashes experienced during menopause, where the body reacts to hormonal changes with sudden warmth and sweating.
Low Estrogen Levels
Extended breastfeeding can exacerbate the situation, as prolonged lactation keeps estrogen levels low. Many women report experiencing hot flashes and increased sweating during this time, which can be particularly pronounced if they are exclusively breastfeeding. The low estrogen state can lead to various discomforts, including not just hot flashes but also vaginal dryness and mood swings.
Managing Discomfort
While hot flashes can be distressing, there are ways to manage the discomfort. Staying hydrated, dressing in layers, and using fans or cool compresses can help alleviate some of the heat. Additionally, understanding that these symptoms are a normal part of the postpartum experience can provide some reassurance to new mothers.
In conclusion, hot flashes during breastfeeding are primarily linked to hormonal changes and the physiological demands of lactation. While they can be uncomfortable, they are a common experience for many women and typically resolve as the body adjusts to its new hormonal balance over time.

Can breastfeeding mimic perimenopause?

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.

How long does it take for hormones to balance out postpartum?

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.

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.

How long do postpartum hot flashes last?

The symptoms will peak, on average, at 2 weeks postpartum and decline after, with about 10% of women continuing to have hot flashes at 1 month postpartum. This is the same percent of women that will experience hot flashes during pregnancy, too, although it’s not necessarily the same women who will suffer.

Can breastfeeding cause menopause symptoms?

After childbirth and during breastfeeding, women’s oestrogen levels can drop to lower levels than usual. These low levels of oestrogen can cause symptoms that mimic menopause.”

Why do I get hot when I breastfeed?

Yes, people who are lactating tend to sweat a little more. This is because prolactin, the hormone responsible for producing breast milk, keeps estrogen levels low. Sweating is one of the main side effects of low estrogen. Even people who feed their baby with formula can experience night sweats.

Does breastfeeding mess with your hormones?

The production of prolactin can also inhibit the hormones that are responsible for ovulation, so you may notice that you don’t get your period if you’re exclusively breastfeeding.

Does breastfeeding make you feverish?

What is breast mastitis? May, or may not, involve an infection. Involves redness, tenderness and heat in the breast, along with a fever and flu-like symptoms such as nausea, aches and chills. Usually occurs within the first six weeks of breastfeeding, but can occur anytime.

Is it normal to have hot flashes while breastfeeding?

Postpartum hot flashes and breastfeeding
Hormones produced to help with milk production can also lead to hot flashes.

What triggers hot flashes?

Common triggers of hot flashes can include:

• Hot weather or warm environments.
• Being overheated, especially during exercise or when wearing heavy clothing.
• Drinking caffeinated or alcoholic beverages.
• Eating spicy foods.
• Feeling stressed.
• Drinking hot beverages like coffee, tea or hot chocolate.