Breastfeeding Questions - Breastfeeding and Depression
I just weaned my 12 month old two weeks ago, and ever since I've been pretty bummed. Is there a link between weaning and depression, or will this pass?
What a great thing you've done for your little one! She's had a great start to her life.
You will find that your hormones are all over the place for a short while. When you are breastfeeding you have a hormone called oxytocin in your system which helps you relax and feel good. At the moment your body is going through a lot of changes again.
If you feel very low have a chat with your GP as you may need a short term prescription for a mild antidepressant. Postnatal depression can strike long after the birth of a baby. Many women are only diagnosed after the first year or 18 months!
Of course you may be suffering some premenstrual tension (PMT) as your periods will become more regulated now that you have finished breastfeeding.
In time it should all settle. Try to rest as much as you can and eat a balanced diet. Try to get some exercise, like a brisk walk every day. This will give you back some happy hormones.
Have a look at the following article on my website for some more information:
Breastfeeding and Postnatal Depression
I hope this helps
Sinead
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