November 9, 2022

How to Deal With Hormone Imbalance During Breastfeeding – A Comprehensive Guide

You might be wondering how you can balance your hormones while breastfeeding. It may seem like a difficult task, but it is actually very simple. You see, even though the majority of research has focused on how hormonal fluctuation affects women, there is evidence that shows that men and women react differently when it comes to hormone imbalances. Hormone imbalances are common and they can have serious consequences if not dealt with properly. Fortunately, over the last few decades, we have come to understand what causes the imbalance in the first place and how to deal with it. In this guide, we will discuss everything you ever wanted to know about hormone imbalance during breastfeeding – from general information to tips and tricks you can use today.

What causes hormone imbalance?

Hormone imbalances are caused by a number of factors, including the following:

Genetics – If both of your parents had the same condition, you have a higher than average chance of developing it, too.
Environmental Factors
Birth Control Pills, certain Drugs, and illnesses can also cause hormone imbalance.
Hormonal Cycles – Most people are aware that hormones change throughout the month, but did you know that your levels also fluctuate around your period?
Hormone Levels – Some people have a higher output of certain hormones than others.
Levels of Stress – Too much or too little stress can affect your hormones.
Body Fat – When you gain or lose weight, certain hormones get redistributed.
Age – Hormone levels change as you age, which can make balancing them more difficult.

How to deal with a hormone imbalance during breastfeeding? What should I be watching out for?

Symptoms of hormonal imbalance during breastfeeding

There are a number of factors that can contribute to hormonal imbalance, which can affect lactation. Some of these factors include: stress, anxiety, diet, medication, and lifestyle choices. If you’re experiencing any of these symptoms, it’s important to have an online lactation consultation with your lactation consultant to assess your condition and create a personalized treatment plan. This will help you to restore your hormonal balance and improve your milk production.

In addition, a lactation consultant can offer advice on how to manage your symptoms and improve lactation outcomes. By following a tailored treatment plan, you can ensure that your milk production is optimally supported. If you have a hormonal imbalance, you can notice some symptoms as well as some of the possible symptoms of hormonal imbalance during breastfeeding.

Irregular period – If you don’t have a period at all, or it is very irregular, it is possible that you have a hormonal imbalance.
Breakouts – If you regularly have breakouts, have a higher-than-average number of acne lesions or experience significant acne, it could be a sign of a hormonal imbalance.
Joint Pain – If you experience joint pain, it could be a sign of a hormonal imbalance, too.
Fatigue – If you feel very tired all the time, it could be a sign of a hormonal imbalance.
Weight Gain – If you gain weight easily, or you put on a significant amount of weight while breastfeeding, it could be a sign of a hormonal imbalance.
Sleep Disturbance – If you are frequently awakened by your baby, or you feel as though you are sleeping too much, it could be a sign of a hormonal imbalance.
Cramps – If you experience severe and/or frequent cramps, it could be a sign of a hormonal imbalance.
Mood Swings – If you frequently experience mood swings, it could be a sign of a hormonal imbalance.

How to deal with a hormone imbalance during breastfeeding

If you have a hormonal imbalance, there are a few things you can do to help balance your hormones. We recommend consulting a doctor about hormone imbalance treatment at Newton-Wellesley OB/GYN before trying any of these solutions.

Cut out caffeine – Caffeine is a common source of hormonal disruption and is best avoided while breastfeeding.
Cut out refined sugars – Many women find that cutting out refined sugars helps them balance their hormones.
Find a supportive partner – A supportive partner can be a great resource when trying to balance your hormones. Having someone you can talk to about hormonal fluctuations can be very helpful.
Get plenty of sleep – Getting plenty of sleep can be difficult while caring for a new baby, but it is important for many reasons, including balancing hormones.
Exercise regularly – Regular exercise can help you relieve stress and maintain a positive mood, which are both essential to balancing hormones.
Avoid Alcohol – The chemicals in alcohol can seriously interfere with your hormonal process, increasing the risk of a hormonal imbalance.
Eat real, whole foods – A diet high in processed foods can cause serious disruption in the body, which is why a more wholesome diet is recommended.
Take a good quality multivitamin – If you do not have enough nutrients in your diet, you can purchase a quality multivitamin and use it as a supplement.
Get some sunlight – Vitamin D from sunlight is essential for hormonal balance.
Get a massage – Massages have been shown to have a positive impact on the body, including hormones.
Get active – Regular exercise helps to keep your body in shape and can help you to relieve stress.
Use essential oils – Essential oils are natural and can be used safely during breastfeeding.
Take a walk with your baby – A daily walk with your baby can help you to relieve stress, and can also help you to gain weight.
Join a support group – Joining and attending a
Talk to your therapist – Talking through your issues with a therapist can be a helpful way to relieve stress.
Talk to your friends – The friends you choose to spend time with can have a big impact on your life, including hormones.