It is usually seen that there is a striking difference in the energy levels before and after pregnancy. Have you ever
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thought what could be the reason for it? It is Hormones (chemical messengers)!
The body goes through several hormonal changes during pregnancy and it takes some time for it to get back to normal levels after the baby is born.
What Causes Hormonal Imbalance After Pregnancy?
Female reproductive hormones; estrogen and progesterone play a vital role during pregnancy and post delivery. Any imbalance in their levels cause several physical and mental changes in the body.
These changes, however, are temporary!
Why does Estrogen dominate Post delivery?
During pregnancy, the progesterone hormone is produced and maintained by the placenta to provide a supportive environment inside the
uterus. After the baby is born, there is a drop in the level of progesterone, which does not increase until the woman starts ovulating (producing egg and menstrual periods start again) post childbirth. This, in turn, causes an increase in the estrogen level and thus, estrogen dominance.
How Does Estrogen Dominance Affect You?
Estrogen dominance can cause various condition like hypothyroidism meaning decreased functioning of thyroid gland, adrenal fatigue that is decreased production of the hormone cortisol, thus, increases fatigue (tiredness) and stress. In addition, you may also experience other physical and psychological changes.
How to know if there is an imbalance?
The symptoms you experience due to hormonal imbalance post pregnancy are:
- Extreme fatigue
- Weight loss
- Mood swings and anxiety
- Insomnia (difficulty to sleep)
- Hair loss
- Depression
- Allergies
- Irregular periods
- Problems in breast milk production (breast cysts or lumps)
Hormonal Imbalance and Postpartum Depression Syndrome (PDS)
Postpartum (post child birth) depression can begin at any point of time after the baby is born and can last up to one year. However, it can be cured with right medication and counseling therapy.
Ways To Restore Hormonal Balance Post Pregnancy
Here are some effective ways to restore the hormonal balance after delivery.
- Exercise (such as yoga)
- Eat fiber-rich food
- Avoid birth control pills
- Say no to alcohol and caffeine
- Take Vitamin and mineral supplement
- Get enough sleep
If you are facing any health issues related to hormonal imbalance, do not be worried! Once the hormonal levels are balanced, these symptoms will vanish. Ensure to follow a healthy diet and lifestyle which can help in bringing the hormone levels back to normal.
“Strike the balance for a joyful, stress free motherhood after childbirth”
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