Did you know that mental health can be a benefit of breastfeeding?
There are abundant benefits to breastfeeding but one that is not mentioned often is one's psyche. Psychoneuroimmunology studies the behaviors and the immune processes through interactions with neural and endocrine function. The benefits from psychoneuroimmunology show a reduction in anxiety that is associated with the hormone prolactin. Prolactin is a hormone that causes the breasts to grow and produce milk during pregnancy and after birth known as postpartum. Studies further discovered that breastfeeding directly decreases the symptoms of depression and that non-exclusivity and early cessation of breastfeeding eliminates this benefit. A common postpartum depression is called "postpartum blues" which is a short-term depression that lasts about two weeks. With support from family and friends this will clear up without any treatment. The occurrence happens when estrogen and progesterone hormones are released at a fast rate that causes a chemical response in the brain that can initiate mood swings. Such mood swings are what are referred to as "highs and lows". Common signs to look for are exhaustion, fatigue, loneliness, anxiety, fear and crying to extreme joy and happiness. It is important to inform your healthcare provider so you can be monitored appropriately.
Here are some 5-5-5 rules to help guide you in great mental health and breastfeeding:
TIP 5-5-5 Rule: Breastfeeding Storage
- 5 hours outside of the fridge at room temperature
- 5 days stored inside the fridge
- 5 months stored in the freezer
TIP 5-5-5 Rule: Postpartum Rest and Wellness
- 5 days in bed
- 5 days on the bed
- 5 days near the bed
Dr. Afua Antwiwaah
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