Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and breastfeeding

Women with PCOS may experience fertility problems. In addition, new mothers with PCOS may have additional difficulties with breastfeeding. Here's a breakdown of PCOS, how it affects breastfeeding, and what you can do to regulate your milk supply.

What is PCOS?

PCOS causes hormonal imbalances and other symptoms in about 10% of all women. This hormonal imbalance affects the ovaries and ovulation. With PCOS, your ovaries may not release an egg every month when you have a regular menstrual cycle.

This is an endocrine disease, the cause of which is still unknown. However, medical professionals believe there may be a genetic link, as your chances of having it are increased if you have a mother, sister, or aunt with PCOS. Most women are diagnosed in their 20s and 30s when they are trying to conceive.

PCOS affects women in different ways, but the main problem that most women experience is irregular periods due to delayed or irregular ovulation. This can lead to fertility problems or the inability to conceive. PCOS is one of the most common causes of infertility in women.

Common symptoms of PCOS

PCOS is a syndrome, not a disease. Therefore, women with PCOS may have a combination of different symptoms. It also makes it difficult for doctors to detect and diagnose PCOS.Common symptoms, in addition to irregular periods, include:

Acne
Hirsutism or male-pattern hair growth on the face, chest, lower abdomen, inner thighs, or back
Alopecia or hair loss
Increased testosterone levels
Weight gain
Obesity
Skin tags
Thinning hair
Darkening of the skin under the breasts, in the folds of the neck and in the groin
Mood disorders such as depression, tension and irritability
Insulin resistance
Miscarriage

PCOS and breastfeeding

Researchers have found that breastfeeding with PCOS can be difficult for some women because it is associated with a lack of milk. The reason for this is still being researched and established, but may be related to the following:

Insulin resistance. Women with PCOS may gain weight due to insulin resistance and metabolic problems. This means that they are more prone to obesity, which is known to negatively affect breastfeeding.

It is also believed that insulin resistance can affect breast growth and milk synthesis and production. Receptor cells in the breast must be insulin sensitive in order to function properly with other breastfeeding hormones. If they lose this sensitivity, it becomes more difficult to produce enough breast milk.

Development of breast tissue. Breastfeeding in PCOS can also be difficult due to the development of the breast itself. The hormonal imbalance caused by PCOS can affect the development of breast tissue during puberty and throughout pregnancy. Irregular or fewer periods at the onset of puberty can cause levels of the hormone estrogen to drop, which can lead to shrinking breast tissue.

Hormonal imbalance. While low estrogen levels can affect breast development, high estrogen levels can also stop breastfeeding. Most women with PCOS have too much estrogen, an imbalance called "estrogen dominance". Estrogen levels should be monitored after childbirth to ensure that high levels do not affect breastfeeding.

Many women with PCOS also have higher levels of androgenic hormones such as testosterone. Excess testosterone can act against prolactin and oxytocin, two other hormones needed for breast milk production.

How to regulate milk production in PCOS

Not all women with PCOS will have little milk. However, if you're having trouble breastfeeding, you can help your body regulate milk production by:

Diet. Losing 5% of body weight can have a positive effect on milk production. A balanced diet that includes whole foods will help you get the nutrients you need and reduce sugar cravings.

With PCOS, you may be more prone to sugar cravings if you are insulin resistant. Choose low glycemic foods that won't raise your blood sugar.

The exercise. If you're having trouble breastfeeding, try incorporating some exercise into your daily routine. Moving the body for 30 minutes every day can be helpful. Exercise lowers stress hormone levels, which can promote milk production.

Stress management. High levels of stress negatively affect milk production. In addition to exercise, try other calming activities such as light yoga or meditation. Being a new mom isn't easy, so make sure you get enough rest and save valuable time each day.