In this article:
What Happens to Your Hormones After Giving Birth?
After you deliver your baby, your body undergoes significant hormonal changes. The sharp dip in the oestrogen and progesterone levels can mess with your energy and how you are feeling.Now, if you have PCOD, your hormones, particularly insulin, cortisol, and androgens, might have already been imbalanced. It might just mean your body needs more time to recover, and you could have some more intense or long-lasting emotional and physical changes. You might have things like:
- Trouble focusing
- Random energy crashes
- Irritability or mood swings
- Trouble sleeping even when the baby is asleep
Why Does PCOD Increase Mood Swings After Childbirth?
Hormonal imbalance plays a significant role after delivery. PCOD already impacts your hormone levels way before you conceive. After giving birth, your body needs time to get back to normal hormone levels, but PCOD can make this harder.What Causes This?
1. Androgen levels might go up: If you have PCOD, you probably have more androgens in your body. These hormones can shift even more after birth, which can make you feel vulnerable.2. Insulin resistance: Approximately 40 to 80% of individuals suffering from PCOD experience insulin resistance. When blood sugar spikes and dips irregularly, your mood may follow the same pattern.
3. Thyroid link: PCOD is often linked to thyroid imbalances. Low thyroid can cause fatigue, mood swings, and a slow metabolism, especially after giving birth.
Does PCOD Make Postpartum Fatigue Worse?
Postpartum fatigue is common, but PCOD can intensify it due to:- Higher levels of inflammation are common in PCOD
- Slower rate of digestion
- Hormones are messing with your sleep patterns
- Maybe you are low in iron, Vitamin D, or B12
Are You at Risk for Postpartum Depression if You Have PCOD?
Postpartum blues and postpartum depression are different entities. Studies show individuals with PCOD are more likely to experience postpartum depression and anxiety because of hormones, body changes, and emotions. Watch out for these signs:- Trouble connecting with your baby
- Not enjoying things you used to love
- Feeling disconnected from your baby
- Changes in appetite
- Constant restlessness or worrying
- Thoughts of hopelessness or self-harm
How PCOD Affects You Emotionally?
PCOD affects you mentally, physically, and socially. Emotional situations you might deal with:- Feeling exhausted with new responsibilities
- Feeling guilty for being tired
- Worrying about your health in the long run
- Comparing yourself to other mothers
- Struggling with body-image issues due to weight gain
What Can You Do to Manage Postpartum Mood Swings?
Here are simple, practical steps to follow:1. Adjust your meals
- Eat smaller, frequent meals
- Include protein in each meal
- Add fibre-rich foods to promote gut health
- Avoid long gaps between meals
2. Move gently
A heavy workout isn't mandatory. Start with:- Postnatal stretching
- A walk for 10 to 15 minutes
- Breathing techniques or light yoga
3. Take adequate rest
- Sleep when your baby sleeps
- Avoid screens before going to bed
When to Seek Medical Help?
Reach out to your doctor if you encounter:- Prolonged anxiety or sadness
- Sudden changes in sleep or appetite
- Extreme fatigue that hampers your daily life
- Self-harming thoughts
- Feeling disconnected from others
- Loss of interest in bonding with your baby
What Is the Role of Your Loved Ones?
Postpartum recovery isn't meant to be dealt with alone. Get your loved ones or partner involved in:- Helping out with household chores
- Giving you emotional support when you need it
- Taking turns with baby duties
- Making sure you have a calm place to rest
- Knowing that mood swings are just hormonal, not you being difficult on purpose
What to Do Next?
- Maintain a healthy diet
- Watch out for changes in your mood and energy
- Share how you feel with your partner
- Be a part of a support group
- Add some easy workouts to your day
- Keep an eye on your sleep habits
- Don’t be afraid to ask for help, both emotionally and with the tasks
- Consult your doctor if you have persistent mood swings
Whether you’re pregnant, a new mom, or navigating postpartum, you don’t have to do it alone. Join our support group to connect, share, and support one another.
FAQs on How PCOD Can Affect Postpartum Mood and Energy Levels
- Can PCOD symptoms come back or worsen after giving birth?
Yes. Things like weight changes, infrequent menstrual cycles, or feeling tired might come back after you have had a baby because hormones are changing. It’s usually okay, but it’s good to keep an eye on things. - Does PCOD prevent post-delivery weight loss?
PCOD may prevent weight loss due to hormonal imbalance and insulin resistance. Minor changes in lifestyle and regularity will be beneficial in the long run. - Does breastfeeding reduce the symptoms of PCOD?
Breastfeeding can be used to stabilise the hormones and even manage weight, which can indirectly improve the symptoms of PCOD. Things, however, do not work as well for everyone.
