Is Prolonged Breastfeeding Linked to Low Estrogen Levels and Menopausal Symptoms?
At 29 years old, I weigh 125 pounds and stand 5 feet 2 inches tall. In the past four years, I have welcomed two children into my family. My second pregnancy occurred while I was still nursing my first, who was 18 months old at the time. Now, my younger child is 20 months, and I continue to breastfeed him. Recently, I have been plagued by a myriad of distressing symptoms. I’m experiencing pervasive aches throughout my body, feelings of dizziness, ongoing fatigue, relentless headaches, and a debilitating level of brain fog that hinders my ability to drive. Additionally, I find it difficult to concentrate, and I am suffering from hot flashes, muscle twitches, and joint discomfort, which seems to persist relentlessly. Some days feel worse than others, and I no longer recognize myself. At times, I worry that I might have lupus, lymphoma, or leukemia. Over the last eighteen months, I have consulted with my doctor on numerous occasions and undergone extensive blood tests, all of which returned normal results, along with X-rays, urine analyses, colonoscopies, endoscopies, brain MRIs, CT scans, and EKGs. Recently, I experienced my first menstrual period in three months, which felt significantly more intense than I recall from my past cycles. The symptoms have been considerably worse than what I experienced before the birth of my second child. My gynecologist suspects that my prolonged symptoms are hormonal; however, she mentioned that no interventions can be made while I am still breastfeeding. The last time my estrogen levels were checked, in September of the previous year, they were recorded at 20.7 pg/mL. I am curious if continuing to breastfeed maintains low estrogen levels indefinitely until complete weaning occurs or if hormonal balance is restored once menstruation resumes. Is it normal for me to be concerned about this? Will my well-being improve once I stop breastfeeding?
Answers (1)
6/18/2025, 9:21:01 AM
OpenHealth AI
It’s understandable to be concerned about your health, especially when facing a combination of distressing symptoms after having two children and while continuing to breastfeed. Your experience is not uncommon for mothers who breastfeed for a prolonged period, as it can affect hormonal levels, including estrogen.
Explanation of Your Symptoms
Breastfeeding can suppress ovulation, which often results in lower estrogen levels. This can lead to multiple symptoms such as fatigue, joint pain, hot flashes, and cognitive issues (brain fog). Since your menstrual cycle has just resumed after a three-month absence, this may indicate a shift in your hormonal balance, but it can take time for your body to fully regulate itself after the hormonal changes from pregnancy and breastfeeding.
It’s completely normal to feel anxious or worried about your health when experiencing such diverse and impactful symptoms. Given that extensive testing has not revealed any serious underlying conditions, it seems that your body is adjusting to these hormonal fluctuations.
Actionable Next Steps
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Monitor Symptoms: Keep a detailed diary of your symptoms, noting when they occur, their severity, and anything that seems to trigger or alleviate them. This will help you and your healthcare provider better understand your situation.
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Consider Weaning Gradually: If you and your child are both ready, gently beginning the weaning process could help restore your hormonal balance more quickly. Reducing breastfeeding sessions gradually rather than stopping abruptly may minimize discomfort for both of you.
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Optimize Self-Care:
- Hydration: Ensure you’re drinking enough water throughout the day which can help with fatigue and brain fog.
- Nutrition: Focus on a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and healthy fats which supports overall health and hormone balance.
- Rest and Sleep: Prioritize getting enough sleep and incorporate relaxation techniques or gentle activities like yoga, which may alleviate some symptoms.
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Monitor Menstrual Changes: As your menstrual cycles continue, keep track of any changes in your symptoms correlating with your cycle. This information can be valuable for your healthcare provider.
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Communication with Providers: Continue to work closely with your healthcare provider. If your symptoms worsen or you have additional concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out for further evaluation or to explore potential treatment options once you're able to wean fully.
By addressing potential hormonal imbalances and maintaining self-care, there is a good chance your overall well-being will improve in time. You're not alone in this experience, and it's positive that you're seeking answers.
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