Can Stress Affect Your Breast Milk Supply?

Did you just become a mamma and feel stressed about this phase of your life? But did you know that this stress can affect your breast milk supply? Let's learn more! 

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends breastfeeding newborns exclusively for six months for proper nutrition and development. However, about 75% of women fail to meet the WHO breastfeeding guidelines. What's scarier is that about 60% of mothers aren't even meeting their own breastfeeding goals.  

Multiple physiological and physical factors may affect the proportion and duration of breastfeeding. Stress is the number one killer of breast milk supply. But does breast milk stop in stress? Does anxiety completely dry out your supply? Here is the science behind it. 

Does Breast Milk Stop in Stress 

While stress doesn't completely stop the production of breastmilk, it does affect its supply. Chronic stress may degrade the quantity and composition of breast milk. Here are the mechanisms behind it: 

In experimental studies, acute stress has reduced the release of oxytocin during the feed. Oxytocin, often called the 'love hormone,' is also an important reproductive hormone produced in the hypothalamus and released by the pituitary gland. 

It triggers the letdown or milk ejection reflex, where breast milk releases from the milk ducts to the nipple. Reduced levels of oxytocin can interfere with this reflex, which may result in incomplete milk emptying and a decrease in milk production. 

Chronic stress can imbalance the natural hormones by increasing the cortisol levels. Cortisol is the body's natural alarm in response to stress. It prepares the body for threat response through different mechanisms. For example, it increases blood sugar levels to provide instant energy and improve brain function for a streamlined response. 

Research shows that breast milk contains cortisol and even reflects the mother's cortisol levels. If the mother is releasing high levels of cortisol, it may pass to her baby through breastfeeding, affecting the nutritional composition. Studies show that babies fed with high cortisol levels tend to cry and fuss more. 

Given below are the tables that describes hormones affecting breastfeeding and their production in stress: 

Find Out More: 15 Natural Ways to Lower Your Stress Hormone Aka Cortisol Levels! 

Apart from biological responses, stress and anxiety may also affect the breast supply in indirect ways. For example, stressed mothers often don't take care of their diet and water intake. It affects the breastmilk production and frequency. 

While stress may not completely dry out milk production, it can lower the nutritional value of breast milk, affecting the baby's growth and development in various ways. 

Therefore, breastfeeding moms must take care of their physical as well as mental well-being. 

But What Causes Stress Among New Moms 

Studies show that a significant proportion of breastfeeding women undergo anxiety or stress at a certain phase. However, the real question is, what's eventually triggering stress and mental tension among the new moms? 

There can be multiple reasons! One survey found that over 40% of breastfeeding women experience major life problems, financial, emotional, or partner-related issues, during childbirth or early years, leading to stress and anxiety. Here are the factors that may cause mental health concerns among new moms: 

Additionally, post-pregnancy, there can be certain hormonal changes that trigger the stress cycle in breastfeeding moms. As a mother, you need to find out the reasons that stress you out and work on them.  

How to Cope with Stress and Anxiety During Motherhood 

We know that often, motherhood and breastfeeding can be challenging, affecting emotional and mental well-being. Here are a few techniques to cope with anxiety and mental stress. 

To calm your nervous system, add relaxation techniques like meditation and yoga to your regimen. If triggered, listen to soothing music and spend time outdoors. 

Be consistent about physical exercise and workouts. Studies suggest that exercise has a positive impact on brain health. It releases endorphins, which have mood-boosting and pain-reducing effects in the brain. 

To support your breastfeeding cycle, eat a fulfilling, balanced meal and drink adequate water. For optimal nutrition, add protein-rich foods and supplements like bovine colostrum, fruits, vegetables, and dairy products to your diet. 

Find More: What is Bovine Colostrum: Benefits, Nutrition, Uses, and Potential Side Effects 

At times, motherhood can be challenging, but you are never alone. Therefore, don't hesitate to seek social support if required. You may ask your friends, relatives, and mothers in your circle about their experiences and how they went through it. 

The sleep cycle is an essential regulator of stress. Poor sleep can worsen existing mental conditions and may even trigger new ones. Therefore, prioritize getting 8-9 hours of sound sleep every night. 

Being a mother doesn't mean you have to compromise on yourself. Invest time in yourself, do the things you love, follow your hobbies, and spend time with your friends. 

Can There Be Any Other Reason for Low Breastmilk Production? 

Wait a minute! Are you experiencing a reduction in your breastmilk, even when you are stress-free? There can be other reasons for this, including: 

Whatever the reason, it's important to ensure that your baby has a tummy-filling and nourishing feeding experience. 

How to Ensure a Nourishing Breastfeeding 

Breastfeeding provides a baby with all the crucial nutrients, including proteins, fats, carbohydrates, and others. Therefore, mothers need to ensure a nourishing and fulfilling experience for their babies. 

Read More: Understanding Bovine Colostrum for Babies: Nutritional Insights for Parents 

Way Forward 

Breastfeeding and motherhood are unique journeys, with each woman experiencing them in her own way. Don't stress out or worry about little things! Sometimes, even a tiny change around you can make a significant change. Most importantly, talk with the people and other moms in your circle. We understand that being a new mother can sometimes be stressful and scary, but with the right support, care, routine, and recommendations, you will rock it for sure. 

Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and is not intended as medical advice. These statements have not been evaluated by the FDA. Products mentioned are not intended to diagnose, treat, cure, or prevent any disease.