Why does breastfeeding make me sick to my stomach?

Understanding the Discomfort of Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is often celebrated for its numerous benefits, both for the mother and the baby. However, some mothers report feeling sick to their stomachs during or after breastfeeding sessions. This discomfort can stem from various factors, and understanding these can help alleviate concerns.
Physical Reactions to Breastfeeding
One of the primary reasons breastfeeding may induce nausea is related to the body’s physiological response. When a mother breastfeeds, her body releases hormones such as oxytocin, which can trigger uterine contractions. For some women, these contractions can lead to feelings of nausea or discomfort, especially if they are already feeling unwell or are experiencing hormonal fluctuations.
Additionally, if a mother is sick—whether with a stomach virus or another illness—her body may react negatively to the act of breastfeeding. For instance, during episodes of gastroenteritis, the body is already under stress, and the act of breastfeeding can exacerbate feelings of nausea. It’s important to note that while breastfeeding during illness can provide benefits to the baby, such as passing on antibodies, it can also be physically taxing for the mother.
Dietary Influences
Another factor to consider is the mother’s diet. Certain foods consumed by breastfeeding mothers can lead to gastrointestinal discomfort, both for the mother and the baby. If a mother eats something that doesn’t sit well with her, it can result in nausea during breastfeeding sessions. Keeping a food diary may help identify any specific triggers that could be causing this discomfort.
Emotional and Psychological Factors
Breastfeeding can also be an emotionally charged experience. Stress, anxiety, or feelings of being overwhelmed can manifest physically, leading to nausea. The pressure to maintain breastfeeding while managing personal health can create a cycle of stress that exacerbates physical symptoms.
When to Seek Help
If feelings of nausea persist or are accompanied by other concerning symptoms, it is crucial for mothers to consult healthcare professionals. Conditions like mastitis, which can occur in breastfeeding mothers, may also contribute to feelings of illness. Understanding the underlying causes of discomfort can help mothers make informed decisions about their breastfeeding journey.
In conclusion, while breastfeeding is a natural and beneficial process, it can sometimes lead to feelings of sickness for various reasons, including hormonal changes, dietary choices, and emotional stress. Mothers experiencing these symptoms should not hesitate to seek support and guidance to ensure both their well-being and that of their baby.

Why does breastfeeding make my stomach upset?

For a few days after delivery, many women have cramping pain in the abdomen at the start of each feeding. This is because breastfeeding stimulates the release of hormones that help shrink the uterus back to its normal size.

Why do I feel like throwing up while breastfeeding?

nausea that occurs with let-down during breastfeeding (this happens because oxytocin, the hormone that causes your milk ejection reflex, is also associated with digestion and other gut hormones that cause nausea)

Why do I feel so bad when I breastfeed?

Not everyone has a positive experience with breastfeeding. If you feel negative emotions like anger or sadness when your milk lets down, you may have D-MER, or dysphoric milk ejection reflex. You’re not alone, you did nothing to cause it and there’s nothing “wrong” with you.

What is the sickness you get from breastfeeding?

Blood-borne pathogens in breast milk may include, but are not limited to, HIV, hepatitis B, hepatitis C, West Nile Virus, cytomegalovirus (CMV), and human T-cell lymphotropic virus (HTLV-I/II).

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.

Why do I feel sick to my stomach after breastfeeding?

Nausea that occurs with the milk let-down may be related to the release of oxytocin. Oxytocin is the hormone that causes the milk ejection reflex (MER or let-down), and it also helps make digestion more efficient and is associated with other gut hormones that can cause nausea.

How can I settle my stomach while breastfeeding?

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends kaolin-pectin products (such as Kaopectate) or loperamide products (such as Imodium) for nursing mothers with diarrhea. Bismuth subsalicylate compounds (such as Pepto Bismol) contain enough aspirin ingredients that they may not be safe for your baby.

What to take for an upset stomach while breastfeeding?

Heartburn / Indigestion

• Mylanta.
• TUMS.
• Pepcid.
• Maalox.
• Gavison.
• Pepto Bismol.

Why does breastfeeding make you sick?

Mastitis. 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. It’s important to carry on breastfeeding.

What is the 5 5 5 rule for postpartum?

The 5-5-5 postpartum rule prescribes 15 days of rest for moms following childbirth – five days in the bed, five days on the bed and five days around the bed. It encourages moms to take a break from housework and caring for older children, and simply spend time with the new baby.