When you and baby are ready, it's good to know that you may experience a shift in mood.
It's common to feel sad or mildly depressed after weaning while others experience anxiety and mood swing, according to KellyMom.
What causes these feelings?
Breastfeeding stimulates the creation of hormones like oxytocin which is often referred to as "the love hormone."* Declines in prolactin, another hormone responsible for milk production, is often associated with feelings of "well-being, calmness and relaxation."** When you wean and these hormones decline, your emotions and mood can certainly change.
How do I reduce the risk of feeling "off"?
Instead of It might help to reduce 1 feeding a week instead of abruptly.**
What should you do?
Contact your doctor to explain how you are feeling and discuss ways to cope with hormonal changes after weaning breastfeeding.
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References: *Huffington Post **KellyMom
