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The Exhausting Reality of Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding is often heralded as a beautiful bonding experience between mother and child, but for many new mothers, it comes with an unexpected side effect: fatigue. Understanding why breastfeeding can be so tiring involves delving into the physiological and emotional demands placed on a new mother.
Hormonal Influences
One of the primary reasons breastfeeding induces fatigue is the release of hormones during the nursing process. When a mother breastfeeds, her body produces prolactin, a hormone that plays a crucial role in milk production. Prolactin is known to promote feelings of calm and relaxation, which can lead to drowsiness. Alongside prolactin, oxytocin is released, which not only aids in milk letdown but also contributes to a sense of well-being and relaxation. This combination can make mothers feel sleepy, especially during those quiet moments of nursing.
Physical Demands
The act of breastfeeding itself is physically demanding. Producing milk requires a significant amount of energy, and for many mothers, this can lead to a depletion of their energy reserves. The body is working hard to create the nutrients necessary for the baby, which can leave mothers feeling drained. Additionally, the physical positioning and the act of holding a baby can lead to discomfort and strain, further contributing to fatigue.
Emotional and Psychological Factors
Beyond the physical and hormonal aspects, the emotional toll of caring for a newborn can also lead to exhaustion. New mothers often experience a whirlwind of emotions, from joy to anxiety, which can be mentally taxing. The constant demands of a newborn, coupled with the need to breastfeed frequently, can lead to sleep deprivation, compounding feelings of tiredness.
Coping Strategies
While fatigue is a common experience for breastfeeding mothers, there are strategies to help manage and alleviate this tiredness. Ensuring proper nutrition and hydration is vital, as a well-nourished body can better cope with the demands of breastfeeding. Additionally, seeking support from family or lactation consultants can provide much-needed relief and guidance, allowing mothers to share the load and find moments to rest.
In conclusion, while breastfeeding is a natural and rewarding process, it is essential to recognize the fatigue that can accompany it. By understanding the hormonal, physical, and emotional factors at play, mothers can better prepare for and manage the challenges of breastfeeding, ensuring both they and their babies thrive during this critical time.
Why is nursing a baby so exhausting?
Breastfeeding by itself isn’t tiring. However many babies and toddlers are obsessed and want to do it throughout the night. So they wake up crying and then you wake up so naturally you are tired too. The babies usually have one or two naptimes during the day to recover and the mothers don’t.
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.
Why do I feel sleepy while breastfeeding?
Your body releases a hormone called oxytocin. It is also known as love hormone and it relaxes your mind. Your body also releases a hormone called prolactin, which is known as a soothing hormone. Both these hormones have a soothing effect, you will feel relaxed and drowsy.
Can breastfeeding make you tired all the time?
Meanwhile, prolactin helps you make and maintain your milk supply. And, similar to our friend oxytocin, prolactin enhances relaxation and calm. Put all the pieces together, and you can see why you may feel relaxed, drowsy, or sleepy while breastfeeding.
