Breastfeeding comes with its own set of challenges. Postpartum depression can actually affect breastfeeding, bonding with the infant, and more. Here's how new moms can manage it, too.

Different mothers may have different experiences with breastfeeding. There are always many questions, myths and facts about breastfeeding. Postpartum depression is a common challenge mothers face. But can you also affect the process of breastfeeding, the relationship with children?

Decreased milk production

Postpartum depression (PPD) can lead to hormonal imbalances, particularly affecting prolactin and oxytocin levels, which are important for milk production and the let-down reflex, explains Dr Pooja Sharma, senior consultant obstetrics and gynaecology, Daffodils by Artemis, East Kailash. . , speaking to India.com. She said such cuts can lead to stress and anxiety, which can exacerbate depressive symptoms.

Solution: Regular breastfeeding or pumping can help maintain a healthy milk supply. Consulting a lactation consultant can provide strategies to promote milk production, such as proper latching techniques and frequent feeding schedules.

Lack of bonding

Depression can make it challenging for mothers to bond with their babies, affecting the emotional connection needed for successful breastfeeding. Lack of this bond can reduce the frequency and duration of breastfeeding.

Solution: Skin-to-skin contact, even outside of mealtimes, can enhance bonding. Seeking therapy or joining support groups can also provide emotional support and improve bonding experiences.

Physical exhaustion

PPD often includes physical symptoms such as extreme fatigue, which make the physical demands of breastfeeding seem overwhelming. This fatigue can reduce the mother's ability or desire to continue breastfeeding.

Solution: Make sure you get enough rest by getting help from family or friends for household chores and baby care. Taking short, frequent naps and prioritizing sleep can also help reduce fatigue.

Anxiety and stress

Mothers with PPD may experience increased anxiety and stress, which can interfere with weaning and create a negative feedback loop that hinders breastfeeding.

Solution: Practicing relaxation techniques such as deep breathing, meditation, or gentle yoga can help manage anxiety. Professional counseling and support groups can also be beneficial.

Negative self-perception

Feelings of inadequacy and low self-esteem that are common in PPD can discourage mothers from breastfeeding, as they may feel that they are not good enough or that they are failing at motherhood.

Solution: Positive reinforcement from partners, family, and health care providers can increase confidence. Occupational therapy can also address these negative feelings and improve self-esteem.

Poor nutrition

Depression can affect a mother's appetite and eating habits, leading to poor nutrition, which is essential for maintaining a healthy milk supply and overall health.

Solution: Ensuring a balanced diet with the help of a nutritionist and taking prescribed supplements can improve nutritional intake. Small, frequent meals and hydration are also essential.

Inconsistent feeding schedule:

PPD can disrupt daily routines, leading to inconsistent breastfeeding or pumping schedules, which can negatively impact milk supply and the baby's feeding habits.

Solution: Establishing a flexible but consistent feeding schedule can help. Using reminders or setting alarms for feeding times and involving a partner or caregiver in maintaining the schedule can also help.

Postpartum depression significantly affects breastfeeding through various physical and emotional channels. Addressing these issues and getting help early can help ensure the well-being of mother and baby.