It’s no secret that pregnancy comes with numerous physical and emotional changes. As a woman prepares to give birth, her body goes through significant hormonal changes which help to support the growing baby.

Once the baby is born, however, new hormonal changes occur that can affect her body, mind, and emotions. Here’s a guide to understanding what hormonal changes to expect after pregnancy.

1. Decreased Estrogen and Progesterone

During a normal pregnancy, the levels of estrogen and progesterone rise significantly to support the fetus. After birth, however, these hormone levels drop rapidly, which can lead to physical and emotional changes.

For example, new mothers may experience vaginal dryness or hot flashes as estrogen levels drop. They may also feel moody or anxious as their bodies adjust to new hormone levels.

2. Increased Prolactin

Prolactin is the hormone that supports milk production in the breasts. As women begin to breastfeed their newborns, the levels of prolactin increase dramatically, which can lead to breast tenderness or swelling.

In some cases, high levels of prolactin can also suppress fertility, making it less likely for women to get pregnant again soon after giving birth.

3. Postpartum Thyroiditis

Postpartum thyroiditis is a common hormonal condition that occurs in about 5-10% of women after giving birth. This condition occurs when the immune system attacks the thyroid gland, leading to temporary changes in thyroid function.

During the first few months after birth, women may experience hyperthyroidism (an overactive thyroid) or hypothyroidism (an underactive thyroid), which can cause symptoms like fatigue, weight changes, and mood swings.

4. Cortisol Changes

Cortisol is a hormone that helps the body manage stress. During pregnancy, cortisol levels rise to help both the mother and baby’s bodies adapt to changes.

After giving birth, these levels return to normal, but new mothers may experience stress-related changes due to the many new demands on their time and attention. Stress and sleep deprivation can both affect cortisol levels, which can lead to mood changes or fatigue.

5. Changes in Oxytocin

Oxytocin is sometimes called the “love hormone” because it is associated with emotional bonding and attachment. During pregnancy, oxytocin levels rise and remain high during labor and breastfeeding.

After birth, these levels decrease, which can lead to feelings of loneliness or isolation. At the same time, oxytocin levels can increase with physical touch or intimacy, which can help new mothers feel connected to their partners or loved ones.

6. Emotional Changes

Finally, it’s important to recognize that the hormonal changes after pregnancy can lead to a range of emotional changes.

Many new mothers experience “baby blues” which are mild mood changes that occur in the first few weeks after giving birth. These may include tearfulness, anxiety, or irritability. If these symptoms persist or worsen, they may be a sign of postpartum depression, a more serious hormonal mood disorder that requires medical attention.

Overall, it’s important for new mothers to be aware of the hormonal changes that can occur after giving birth. By understanding what to expect, women can better prepare themselves for the physical and emotional changes that lie ahead.