After birth, there are significant hormonal shifts: estrogen and progesterone levels decrease, oxytocin increases, and prolactin increases.
Here's a breakdown of the key hormonal changes that occur after childbirth:
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Estrogen and Progesterone: These hormones, which are high during pregnancy, experience a sharp decline after delivery. This drop can contribute to postpartum mood swings, often referred to as the "baby blues."
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Oxytocin: Oxytocin levels rise after birth. This hormone plays a vital role in:
- Uterine Contractions: Oxytocin helps the uterus contract back to its pre-pregnancy size, reducing postpartum bleeding.
- Milk Let-Down Reflex: It stimulates the release of breast milk.
- Maternal Bonding: Oxytocin is also associated with feelings of love and attachment between mother and baby.
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Prolactin: Prolactin levels increase significantly after childbirth. This hormone is primarily responsible for stimulating milk production. The more a mother breastfeeds, the more prolactin her body produces, ensuring a sufficient milk supply.
In summary, the hormonal landscape changes dramatically after birth to facilitate uterine recovery, promote lactation, and encourage maternal-infant bonding. The decrease in estrogen and progesterone alongside the increase in oxytocin and prolactin are the major players in this postpartum hormonal shift.
