After the baby’s delivery, the levels of the postpartum hormones increase drastically. Conversely, during this period, the estrogen and progesterone levels drop dramatically, leading to symptoms such as anxiety, mood swings, and irritability. These symptoms are collectively referred to as ‘baby blues’ and might cause difficulty in taking care of the baby or yourself. Thus, it is important to make sure that you understand the symptoms of change in the hormone levels postpartum and deal with them accordingly. Making certain changes in your daily life and seeking advice from your doctor can help make things easier for you. Read about postpartum hormones, their effect on the body, and ways to deal with the symptoms.
What Causes Hormonal Imbalance After Pregnancy?
The primary cause of hormonal imbalance post delivery is the changing levels of the female reproductive hormones called estrogen and progesterone. These hormones are vital during pregnancy period and post-delivery, and an imbalance in their levels causes several physical and mental changes in the body. The changes, however, are temporary and nothing to be worried about.
What Causes Estrogen Dominance Post Childbirth?
During pregnancy, the progesterone hormone is produced and regulated by the placenta to maintain a supportive environment inside the uterus (1). After the baby is born, there is a decrease in the progesterone level, which typically does not increase until the woman starts ovulating post childbirth (2). This, in turn, causes an increase in the estrogen level that leads to estrogen dominance.
How Does Estrogen Dominance Affect You Post Delivery?
Estrogen dominance gives rise to the following conditions: In addition to this, you may experience other physical and psychological changes.
What Are The Symptoms Of Hormonal Imbalance After Pregnancy?
The symptoms you experience due to hormonal imbalance post pregnancy are (2, 5, 6):
Extreme fatigue Weight loss Mood swings and anxiety Insomnia Hair loss Postpartum depression Allergies (7) Hot flashes Decreased libido Acne Image: Shutterstock Dry skin Constipation Irregular periods Breast milk issues (breast cysts or lumps) Heart palpitations Vaginal dryness
How Can Hormonal Imbalance Lead to Postpartum Depression Syndrome?
Postpartum depression is a result of the hormonal fluctuations occurring post childbirth. It occurs in around 10-20% of new mothers. It can begin at any time post delivery and can last up to one year. The symptoms of PDS include mood swings, irritability, anxiety, and change in appetite among others. However, clinical diagnosis of PDS followed by the right antidepressant medication can help alleviate the disorder. Moreover, counseling and follow-ups with a therapist can be effective in helping you get out of depression. Apart from medication, good food, regular exercises, yoga, and meditation can also help in recovery (8).
Ways To Restore Hormonal Balance Post Pregnancy
Here are some effective ways to restore the hormonal balance in your body after delivery: a. Chaste tree berry: It helps in raising the progesterone levels and also improves fertility (24). b. Red raspberry leaf: It is rich in nutrients and is considered as a uterine tonic that helps in improving fertility and reducing cramping and PMS (25). c. Origanum: It helps regulates the menstrual cycle by maintaining the hormonal levels (26). d. Maca root powder: It is high in essential fatty acids and minerals and boosts hormonal production (27). e. Evening primrose oil: Being high in essential fatty acid content, this essential oil help balance the hormonal level effectively (28).
