Breastfeeding, hormones and weaning...?

[radnrach]

I've had kind of a weird couple of weeks, and I'm wondering if it has anything to do with the fact I've started weaning my son. He's only been eating baby rice & veggie puree in small proportions, as more of a taster - a little veggie/fruit at lunch and then baby rice & veg at dinner. He's still breastfeeding a lot, I'd say every 3 hours. However, he used to breastfeed every 1-2 hours beforehand.

It may be coincidence, but at the same time, I've been feeling very emotional. Kind of like I'm 14 years old and having PMS for the first time - so, so, so not fun! I just realised today that it may have something to do with breastfeeding hormones?! And the fact that my body is changing due to less bfing? But I'm wondering if this is a completely ridiculous notion.

Does anyone have any thoughts about this? I'm very easily effected by hormones, which makes fun times for both my husband and myself! Ha.

[Fuschia]

Definitely, radnrach. The main hormone released by bf is oxytocin the "love" hormone... sudden drop will make you feel sad and emotional.

[bluesuperted]

I've been experiencing a heightened sense of emotion recently, slightly different from what you describe though (looking at my sleeping babe and crying happy tears, shaking my head at how unbelievably cute he is...) - haven't started weaning in earnest but have begun dabbling in baby led weaning (so very slow potentially). Had been putting it down to the whole six month thing - that it's a milestone, a half year of his life, a step closer to them not being babies any more. Very interesting about the hormones Fuschia but don't think that's the case for me just yet as still feeding LOADS! Better warn my DH that it could get worse!!

Some NCT friends at the same stage are experiencing similar emotions - I said it's kind of the mother's own version of 6 month separation anxiety. I also think it's to do with the fact you know what you're doing with breastfeeding by this point and you trust it, and the thought of (or the actual deed of) weaning is a little scary and unknown again. I plan on continuing to breastfeed for a good while yet though so just have to keep reminding myself of that.

Hope your PMS style feelings go very soon though!! x

[Fuschia]

|It's also possible to get anxious/upset feelings as the milk lets down...

http://www.breastfeeding.com/helpme/bfing_secret.html

[Smiler]

I think is combo of hormones and concerns arising from thinking about going back to work....boo hoo!

[Polly D]

It probably IS pms! Have you had a period yet?

[BryTE]

I just had exactly the same thing, but I totally stopped breast feeding, I thought I was having delayed baby blues! It was totally upsetting.

I spoke to my Mum (who has had 4 babies!) and she said it is very very normal. Mine passed after a few weeks so hang on in there, and go easy on yourself!

B

[crystal7]

Polly D Wrote:

-------------------------------------------------------

> It probably IS pms! Have you had a period yet?

Good point Polly D, I got my first period post baby when E was about 5 months and was exclusively breastfeeding every 3 hours day and night- an annoying surprise!