Motherhood is a precious journey, filled with delightful moments despite the challenges and the labour pain that we have to go through. After childbirth, a mother's body undergoes significant hormonal changes, particularly the activation of prolactin hormone to support breastfeeding through the night. Understanding and managing these hormonal shifts is crucial for both the mother and baby's well-being.
Prolactin plays a vital role postpartum and it is a hormone produced in the brain's pituitary gland, especially during breastfeeding. It stimulates milk production in mothers, making breastfeeding possible, plus it acts as a mild sedative, inducing drowsiness and promoting sleepiness in mothers after the feeding session, which enhances rest and recovery. Prolactin levels rise when the baby suckles, signaling the body to produce more milk. For babies, breast milk is essential for nutrition and immune system support. This plays a crucial role in ensuring both the mother and baby have the necessary nourishment and bonding during breastfeeding. However, lack of sleep can disrupt hormone balance, affecting milk quality and quantity. It's essential to prioritise rest to maintain hormonal equilibrium and ensure an adequate milk supply.
Mindset also matters in post-partum recovery. Surrounding oneself with supportive individuals can positively influence the journey. Understanding why babies feed at night is key to managing sleep patterns. In the early stages, babies have weak circadian rhythms, which mature over time, reducing the need for nighttime feeds. Breast milk composition differs during the day and night, aiding in growth and balancing sugar levels, etc. Human growth hormone (HGH) is made while we sleep, aiding in growth and development. Breast milk naturally contains HGH, supporting a baby's growth. HGH may contribute to physical development, but adequate sleep and proper nutrition provided by breast milk are also vital for brain development. Thus, the human growth hormone released during deep sleep fosters baby's overall development.
Breastfeeding stimulates hormones like oxytocin, promoting bonding and relaxation in mothers. Dimming lights during nighttime feeds supports the production of melatonin, enhancing sleep quality and hormonal balance. Trusting the natural rhythms of the body and avoiding societal pressures allows for flexibility in parenting choices, including co-sleeping, which can foster a sense of security in babies and provide mothers with much-needed rest.
It's crucial for mothers to prioritise self-care and rest whenever possible. Coordinating sleep schedules with the baby and taking power naps during the day can mitigate fatigue and promote overall well-being. Avoiding caffeine in the evening and opting for lighter, nutritious meals supplemented with galactagogues supports milk secretion and digestion, reducing the risk of constipation and other issues. Galactogogues are substances that help increase breast milk production. They can be herbs, foods or medications known for their lactation-boosting properties that ensure an adequate milk supply for babies nutritional needs, promoting healthy growth and development. Some common examples include fenugreek, oats, brewer's yeast and fennel seeds, etc.
Managing the post-partum period involves embracing the natural changes in the body and prioritising self-care and rest. By trusting the innate wisdom of the body and seeking support when needed, mothers can embark on this journey with resilience and grace.
