Breastfeeding with PCOS, Thyroid, or Diabetes: What You Should Know
Breastfeeding is an emotional and rewarding experience, many mothers cherish it but it is not the same for everyone especially for those Mothers who are managing underlying conditions such as PCOS, thyroid and diabetes. With these conditions, breastfeeding is anything but simple. If you have any of these condition which means your milk production is compromised, shift in hormones and overall fatigue. Understanding how your condition influences lactation can empower you to prepare, seek the right support, and make informed decisions for both your baby and yourself.
Breastfeeding with PCOS: Challenges and Solutions
PCOS is a very common hormonal disorder which affects 1 in 10 women of child bearing age. Insulin resistance, high level of androgens which are basically male hormones and irregular menstrual cycle are some of the main symptoms. PCOS also effect breastfeeding. Mothers face difficulties in establishing and maintaining milk supply.
A common issue is PCOS and low milk supply. This is often due to insufficient glandular tissue development during puberty or pregnancy. Some women with PCOS may not experience the typical breast changes in pregnancy, like tenderness or growth, which can be early signs of underdeveloped milk-producing tissue. In addition, insulin resistance and hormonal imbalances particularly high levels of testosterone can disrupt the milk production process.
Another known PCOS breastfeeding challenge is delayed lactogenesis, or a delay in the onset of full milk production, which typically occurs 3-5 days after birth. This delay can lead to increased supplementation with formula, which may further impact breastfeeding success if not managed carefully. However, it’s important to remember that every woman’s experience is unique. Some women with PCOS breastfeed successfully with minimal or no issues.
Domperidone, a really affective medication for mothers suffering from low milk supply. It increases Prolactin levels which is a hormone responsible for milk production. But before taking any medication make sure you check with your doctor first to avoid any complication or side effects.
Recently herbal medication like spearmint tea and seed cycling have become popular among PCOS girlies. Spearmint tea lowers testosterone levels and as its a natural approach, it helps with hormone imbalances and better lactation outcomes.
Thyroid Disorders and Breastfeeding Supply
Thyroid disorders are another hormonal issue that can affect milk production. Whether it’s hypothyroidism or postpartum thyroiditis, the thyroid hormone plays a crucial role in regulating metabolism and hormone balance, both of which are essential for effective lactation. Hypothyroidism breastfeeding supply issues are most commonly linked to low levels of thyroid hormones, which may result in decreased milk production or complete failure to lactate.
Women with hypothyroidism often report fatigue, difficulty losing weight postpartum, and low milk output. These symptoms are frequently overlooked or attributed to the demands of new motherhood. If your supply is still low, even with frequent pumping of nursing, then you should get your thyroid function tested.
When properly diagnosed and treated with hormone replacement therapy (such as levothyroxine), many women see significant improvements in their breastfeeding hypothyroidism supply issues. Early detection and appropriate treatment is the recommended approach. During postpartum, thyroid hormones fluctuate and there’s a need to get regular follow-ups to avoid further issues.
Medication is not enough when you are breastfeeding with thyroid conditions. You need to pump and nurse frequently and have to make sure your diet is nutritious.
Breastfeeding with Diabetes: Managing Supply and Blood Sugar
Diabetes, whether pre-existing Type 1, Type 2, or gestational diabetes, can also affect breastfeeding in several ways. Gestational diabetic mothers can face more challenges after birth when they are establishing breastfeeding in early days while maintaining stable blood sugar levels. It usually resolves after birth but insulin resistance lingers a little longer and impact milk production.
Breastfeeding with gestational diabetes is possible and even encouraged as it may help regulate blood sugar levels and reduce the baby’s risk of developing obesity or diabetes later in life. However, some women report a lower milk supply, especially in the early days. This can be linked to the same factors that impact women with PCOS: insulin resistance, hormonal imbalance, and sometimes delayed lactogenesis.
Insulin resistance and milk supply share a complicated relationship. Insulin plays a significant role in lactation, particularly in supporting the development of mammary glands and sustaining milk production. When insulin signaling is impaired, as it is in diabetes or PCOS, the entire process can become inefficient. This is why women with these conditions may find that they produce just enough or sometimes too little milk.
High or low blood sugar levels can make things go wrong, you will feel unnecessarily tired, your energy levels will be effected and there will be issue of milk letdown too , that is why it is important to have balanced glucose levels in postpartum. Make sure to stay hydrated and monitor your diet along with medications prescribed by the doctor can help with both breastfeeding and diabetes.
Final Thoughts
Breastfeeding with PCOS, thyroid issues or diabetes is difficult but not impossible. Some mothers opt for supplements and some choose formula and that is perfectly fine.
As long as you and baby are healthy and nourished, nothings an issue. Working with a knowledgeable lactation consultant, maintaining open communication with your healthcare provider, and staying informed can make a significant difference in your breastfeeding experience.
If you are struggling, don’t worry you are not alone and there’s a cure to everything. Breatfeeding with PCOS, thyroid or diabetes is not easy and may need some extra effort but with the right approach you will have the same fluffing and rewarding experience.
