Understanding the biggest hormonal drop you’ll ever experience
Bringing a new life into the world is an incredible experience, but it also comes with a whirlwind of changes for the new mother’s body, especially in terms of hormones.
In fact, the postnatal period features the most dramatic hormonal shift that humans ever experience, far surpassing the gradual changes of puberty or menopause.
Understanding these changes can help new mothers and their support networks navigate this intense period more effectively.
The Steep Hormonal Decline
After childbirth, the levels of several key hormones plummet almost immediately.
During pregnancy, oestrogen and progesterone levels soar to support the developing baby. However, once the placenta is delivered, these hormones drop sharply, marking the beginning of the postpartum hormonal adjustment. This drastic decrease happens within days, creating a stark contrast to the nine-month buildup.
The Thyroid and Cortisol Connection
Among the various hormonal changes, thyroid hormones are particularly notable. The thyroid gland, which regulates metabolism, can become unpredictable postnatally. Some women experience postpartum thyroiditis, a condition that starts with hyperthyroidism (excess thyroid hormone) and may transition to hypothyroidism (insufficient thyroid hormone). This fluctuation can lead to symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, and mood swings, further complicating postpartum recovery.
Cortisol, the body’s primary stress hormone, also comes into play. The postpartum period is stressful, and elevated cortisol levels reflect this new reality. High cortisol can impact mood, sleep, and even physical recovery, adding another layer to the complex hormonal landscape new mothers must navigate.
Prolactin: The Breastfeeding Hormone
Prolactin, the hormone responsible for milk production, sees a significant increase post-birth, especially if the mother is breastfeeding. This hormone helps facilitate the breastfeeding process but also influences maternal behaviours and bonding. While prolactin supports a vital function, its rise amidst the decline of other hormones can contribute to the emotional rollercoaster many new mothers experience.
The Role of Oxytocin and Relaxin
Oxytocin, often dubbed the “love hormone,” plays a crucial role in childbirth and breastfeeding. It helps stimulate uterine contractions during labour and promotes milk ejection during breastfeeding. Oxytocin also fosters bonding between mother and baby, aiding in emotional attachment during the early days of motherhood. Its levels rise during breastfeeding but can fluctuate widely, affecting emotional stability.
Relaxin, another important hormone, increases during pregnancy to help the pelvis expand for childbirth. After birth, relaxin levels gradually decrease, but the effects can linger, impacting joint stability and contributing to postpartum aches and pains.
Coping with the Hormonal Chaos
Given the sheer scale and speed of these hormonal changes, it’s no surprise that the postpartum period can be challenging for so many mamas. Here are some tips to help manage this transition:
1. Rest and Recovery: Prioritise rest and give your body time to heal. Adequate rest, though hard to come by, is crucial for hormonal balance.
2. Balanced Nutrition: Eat a well-balanced diet rich in vitamins and minerals to support overall health and hormone regulation.
3. Seek Support: Don’t hesitate to ask for help from family, friends, or professionals. Emotional support is vital during this time.
4. Stress Management: Practise stress-reducing activities like gentle exercise, meditation, or yoga to help manage cortisol levels.
The postnatal period is a testament to the resilience and adaptability of the incredible female human body. While the hormonal drop after childbirth is the most significant change a person can experience, understanding and managing these shifts can help ease the transition into motherhood.
If you’d like some personalised support to help balance your hormones, find out more about my postnatal treatments in the menu option.