Why does breastfeeding make you feel weird?

The Complex Feelings of Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is often celebrated as one of the most natural acts a mother can engage in with her newborn. However, for many women, it can also evoke a range of unexpected emotions and sensations that might feel strange or even unsettling. Understanding why breastfeeding can make some mothers feel “weird” involves delving into the physiological, emotional, and psychological aspects of this intimate experience.
Physiological Responses
When a mother breastfeeds, her body undergoes significant hormonal changes. One of the key players in this process is oxytocin, often referred to as the “love hormone.” This hormone is released during breastfeeding and is responsible for the let-down reflex, which allows milk to flow. While oxytocin promotes bonding and feelings of warmth, it can also lead to a mix of emotions, including anxiety or discomfort, especially if the mother is not fully prepared for the experience.
Additionally, the physical sensations associated with breastfeeding can be intense. The act of a baby suckling can stimulate nerve endings in the breast, leading to feelings that range from pleasure to discomfort. For some women, this stimulation can feel overwhelming or even trigger unexpected emotional responses.
Emotional and Psychological Factors
Breastfeeding is not just a physical act; it is deeply intertwined with a mother’s emotional state. Many new mothers experience a rollercoaster of feelings due to the significant life changes they are undergoing. The pressure to successfully breastfeed can lead to stress and anxiety, which may contribute to feelings of weirdness during the act itself.
Moreover, societal expectations and personal beliefs about breastfeeding can complicate a mother’s feelings. Some women may feel a sense of guilt or inadequacy if they struggle with breastfeeding, leading to a disconnect between the natural act and their emotional response. This internal conflict can manifest as discomfort or even aversion to the experience.
The Role of Context
The context in which breastfeeding occurs can also influence how a mother feels. For instance, if a mother is in a stressful environment or feels unsupported, the experience may feel more overwhelming. Conversely, a calm and supportive setting can enhance the bonding experience, making it feel more natural and enjoyable.
Interestingly, some women report feeling a sense of arousal during breastfeeding, which can add another layer of complexity to the experience. This reaction is often attributed to the physical sensations combined with the release of oxytocin, which can create feelings of intimacy and connection. While this is a natural response, it can leave some mothers feeling confused or guilty about their feelings.
Conclusion
In summary, the feelings associated with breastfeeding are multifaceted and can vary widely from one mother to another. The interplay of hormonal changes, emotional states, societal pressures, and personal beliefs all contribute to why breastfeeding can sometimes feel weird. Understanding these dynamics can help mothers navigate their experiences with greater awareness and compassion, recognizing that their feelings are valid and part of a complex journey into motherhood.

Why do I feel weird while breastfeeding?

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 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.

Is breastfeeding hard on a woman’s body?

‘Many women find breastfeeding painful to begin with and may also develop sore, painful, swollen breasts, inflammation (mastitis) or infections,’ says Dr Rosen. ‘Engorgement is common and your doctor can advise on what to do.

Does breastfeeding mess with your emotions?

Breastfeeding has been reported to impact mood and stress reactivity in mothers [55]. Specifically, breastfeeding mothers report reductions in anxiety, negative mood, and stress when compared to formula-feeding mothers [56].

Does breastfeeding zap your energy?

Sometimes you can be doing all the right things like getting adequate water, eating healthy foods and getting adequate rest, and you still feel tired. This is because breastfeeding and making your milk supply can wreak havoc on your nutritional intake, which can cause some serious low energy.

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.

Can breastfeeding make you feel funny?

D-MER is a rare condition which some breastfeeding women experience. Women with D-MER feel negative emotions seconds before their let-down reflex. It happens when they are breastfeeding or expressing and can also happen if their breasts let down at times when they aren’t breastfeeding.

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 does breastfeeding weird me out?

Hormonal shifts are one of the most common causes of breastfeeding aversion. These shifts are usually due to either menstruation, ovulation, or pregnancy. For some breastfeeding parents, breastfeeding aversion peaks during their menstrual cycle.

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.