Some research suggests that high stress levels may affect certain components in breast milk. However, your breast milk remains nutritious and beneficial for your baby, even when you're stressed. If you're feeling overwhelmed, know that stress during this time is normal, and there are plenty of ways to manage it and get support.
If you're feeling stressed while breastfeeding, you're not alone. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), 13% of postpartum women experience a mental health challenge like postpartum depression, stress, or anxiety.
It's completely normal to feel some stress when you're balancing sleep deprivation with learning how to nurse, worrying about your milk supply, and adjusting to life with a newborn. And, as a breastfeeding mom, you may wonder: Is my stress negatively affecting my milk? Will it impact my supply or how my baby feeds? In this guide, we'll talk about what the research shows and, more importantly, how you can take care of yourself during the postpartum period.
Does Stress Affect Breast Milk Composition and Quality?
Some studies show that ongoing, high levels of stress may change certain components in human milk, such as fat content and specific nutrients. However, it's important to note that your breast milk is still good for your baby. Even when you're stressed, your milk continues to provide the nutrition and antibodies your baby needs to grow and thrive. Your body is designed to nourish your baby, even when life feels overwhelming.
An Aeroflow Breastpumps expert said, "While chronic maternal stress can alter some aspects of human breast milk composition, moms can take steps to manage stress and support their overall well-being. Having support from professionals and loved ones makes a real difference for both you and your breastfeeding journey."
Can Stress Affect Breast Milk Supply?
Yes, stress can sometimes impact your milk supply, though it varies from person to person. Here's how:
When Your Milk First Comes In
High stress levels right after birth may delay when your mature milk comes in. Some moms experiencing significant stress in those early days might need temporary supplementation while their supply builds.
Ongoing Supply Challenges that Affect Breastfeeding Outcomes
When you're dealing with chronic stress, your body releases stress hormones like cortisol, which can interfere with the hormones responsible for making and releasing milk (prolactin and oxytocin). This natural stress response might lead to challenges maintaining an adequate milk supply or difficulty with letdown.
The good news? There are ways to manage stress and support your supply at the same time!
Can Stress Make Breast Milk Go Bad?
No, stress does not cause your breast milk to spoil or become unsafe for your baby. As long as you follow standard storage guidelines, your milk is perfectly safe.
Do Stress Hormones Pass Into Breast Milk?
Yes, small amounts of stress hormones like cortisol do pass into breast milk, but this is true for all breastfeeding mothers. Stress hormones are present in milk whether you're feeling stressed or not. While higher stress may mean slightly higher levels in your milk, the amounts are generally small, and your milk remains safe and nutritious for your baby.
How Does Stress Affect My Baby When Breastfeeding?
This is a common concern for many moms, and it's completely understandable. As we mentioned, research on infant feeding outcomes shows that stress can affect some milk components, but babies continue to thrive on milk from stressed mothers.
While stress hormones do pass into milk in small amounts, and your baby may pick up on your tension through things like body language or changes in how you're holding them, breastfeeding itself can actually be calming for both of you. Breastfeeding releases hormones that help reduce stress in the moment. So, even when you're feeling overwhelmed, nursing your baby can actually help you feel a bit calmer!
If you're concerned that your stress might be affecting your breast milk production, your baby's behavior, or feeding, reach out to your healthcare provider or a lactation consultant. They can help you figure out what's going on and offer support.
Managing Stress to Support Your Well-Being
Taking care of your mental health benefits your baby and your breastfeeding journey. Here are some practical ways to manage postpartum stress:
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Get support when you need it: Talk to your partner, friends, family members, or a therapist. You don't have to handle everything alone.
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Rest when you can: Yes, it's hard with a newborn, but even short naps can help!
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Move your body (gently): Exercise is a great way to improve overall maternal health, and a short walk outside can do wonders for your mood. The key is finding exercises you like and starting low and slow, increasing frequency and intensity as your body feels more comfortable.
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Eat nourishing foods: Keeping yourself fed with good foods throughout the day matters for both your energy and milk supply. Need meal ideas? We have a postpartum cookbook with simple recipes that can help support your energy and milk supply.
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Try simple calming practices: New moms need to know that taking time for yourself isn't selfish—it's necessary. Deep breathing, gentle stretching, or a few minutes of quiet can help reset your nervous system and reduce maternal anxiety.
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Manage Your Breastfeeding Expectations: Exclusive breastfeeding, pumping, and combination feeding, are all great options for your baby, and you might have to make adjustments throughout your postpartum journey. At the end of the day, the best option is the one that works for you and your growing family.
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Lower the bar: Not everything has to be perfect. Focus on what matters most right now: your health.
At Aeroflow Breastpumps, we offer classes and resources that cover mental health, nutrition, sleep, and more. Many of these are covered by insurance, so you can get the support you need without added financial stress. Fill out our form to see what you qualify for.
When to Reach Out for Help
Your mental health matters just as much as your physical health. Please reach out to your healthcare provider or a mental health professional if you're experiencing:
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Persistent feelings of sadness, hopelessness, or anxiety
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Difficulty bonding with your baby
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Intrusive or scary thoughts
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Trouble sleeping even when your baby is sleeping
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Feeling overwhelmed to the point where it's hard to function
Getting help isn't a sign of weakness. It's one of the best things you can do for yourself and your baby. If you're struggling with breastfeeding specifically, a lactation consultant can provide practical support and help you troubleshoot challenges that might be adding to your stress. You're not alone.
You're Doing Great
Parenting a newborn is hard. Feeling stressed and overwhelmed doesn't mean you're failing; it means you're human. Your breast milk is still nourishing your baby, even on your hardest days.
It isn't realistic to eliminate stress completely. Instead, focus on finding small ways to manage it and knowing when to ask for help. Be gentle with yourself during this season.
Aeroflow Breastpumps works with certified specialists who understand the connection between your mental health and breastfeeding. If you need support, our experts can connect you with resources and evidence-based guidance to help you through this journey.
