Post-weaning depression: Here’s what to look out for

The breastfeeding journey is unique for each person. While we may plan for breastfeeding and consider things like pumping, burp cloths, a healthy diet, and learning different grips or proper latch, not many of us think about what happens when we’re done breastfeeding. Whether you’ve breastfed for three days, three months, or three years, many women experience strange symptoms, intense emotions, or mood swings after they stop breastfeeding. Some people may experience depression after discontinuation.

Post-weaning depression refers to feelings of anxiety, depression, irritability, and mood swings after someone stops breastfeeding. It is important to understand that no matter how long you breastfed for, or whether you weaned intentionally or for other reasons beyond your control, you may experience depression after weaning.¹ It is also important to distinguish whether this is not a clinical diagnosis postpartum depressionAnd the research is still in its infancy. The experience of post-cessation depression can be very real for many women. So let’s look at why it can occur and what symptoms you should look out for.

Many of us know about the massif hormonal changes that occur after birthbut a similar shift also occurs during weaning.² When we breastfeed our babies, we release:^2.5

• Oxytocin: Also known as the love hormone, our body releases it Oxytocin when we are close or skin to skin with our babies. It helps us release or release milk, supports our Bonding with our babiespromotes well-being and reduces stress.
• Prolactin: This helps with milk production and increases feelings of relaxation and sleepiness.

When we stop breastfeeding, our body no longer releases these chemicals in the same quantities and consistency and it has to adapt. These feel-good hormones are no longer available to us and there may be an adjustment period as our body releases these feel-good hormones!

Additionally, breastfeeding isn’t just about chemicals. After weaning, physical (physical) and emotional changes must also be taken into account, such as:^3.4

• Fault: Maybe you didn’t breastfeed for as long as you wanted or had to stop breastfeeding for some reason. mothers You feel a lot of pressure when breastfeedingand if you do not or cannot do this, you may be stigmatized.
• Connection: Many people find breastfeeding to be a time of bonding and miss this experience when weaning. In addition, weaning represents a step towards independence. . . and be away from you. This can be worrying and stressful.
• congestion: Weaning breastfeeding has physical side effects. For example, if the breasts do not empty completely after breastfeeding, they can become uncomfortable and full. They may feel warm, leak, and swell in size until they are used to not producing milk.
• mastitis: This can sometimes feel like the flu and is associated with weaning. Experience others mastitis If the breast is not completely emptied, flu-like symptoms or infections may occur as the stagnant milk can become a breeding ground for bacteria.
• Periods: Your period may come back or change. This is because hormones affect our periods and the fluctuations and hormonal changes of weaning can cause our periods to look different in terms of length, flow, pain and emotional upheaval beforehand.
• Weight gain: When we breastfeed, we burn calories, and when we stop breastfeeding, many women become accustomed to a certain diet or amount of food. It can take a while for appetite to return to normal, so it’s natural to experience weight gain or other body changes.

You may be curious about how long it takes for hormones to return to balance after weaning, and although there is no exact date or timeline, symptoms will likely go away in a few weeks. Depression after stopping is temporary and your body will adapt to it.^1.2 Please know that it is okay and essential for you to seek support, even if things are temporary or relatively normal in relation to the quitting experience, or if your symptoms bother or worry you.

Because quitting involves chemicals and hormonal changes, you may not be able to completely prevent depression after quitting. However, there are things you can do to reduce the likelihood or severity:^3.4

• Wean slowly: This isn’t always possible, but if you can gradually reduce breastfeeding, your body will become more accustomed to a gradual reduction rather than a sudden change.
• Don’t rush: Some parents feel pressure to wean due to milestones like age, teeth development, etc., but don’t fall into this trap. Wean whenever necessary or right for you and your child; Only you will know when it’s right.

There are some things you can do yourself to help with post-cessation depression, such as: another way to bond with your baby or keep up Skin-to-skin contactwhich helps release oxytocin.¹ You can also engage in other wellness activities such as exercise or self-care.

It is important to understand the possible changes and make plans. Understanding the impact of physical and emotional changes will help you better plan support. Consider things like Food preparation (to ensure you have a good source of nutrients and healthy meals while weaning), contact your primary care provider, look for telemedicine services, or try in-person counseling if you need support. You can also contact your local lactation consultant, find a local La Leche representative, chat with friends, or even schedule emotional support check-ins with loved ones.

Weaning is a big step. Sometimes it is the first important sign for parents that their child is becoming independent. This can be a time of celebration, but also a time of distress or mixed emotions. Make sure you make the right or necessary decisions for yourself and your family without pressure from outside influences. And make sure you have a good support network as you begin the quitting process. You got this!