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There is not much known about the relationship between polycystic ovarian syndrome and breastfeeding, despite the role the condition can play in fertility struggles. In today’s episode, Dr. Minni sheds light on her hypothesis about the link between breastfeeding and PCOS based on PubMed study findings. We also hear about why breastfeeding is important for both the baby and the mother, and how women who have fallen pregnant can ensure their hormones stay balanced. Finally, Dr. Minni offers some advice for working mothers who want to maintain a breastfeeding schedule. To hear this and more, tune in today!

Key Points From This Episode:

• The growing body of evidence that shows the link between PCOS and pregnancy complications.
• Findings on the PubMed database about pre-eclamptic women who breastfed.
• The hypothesis that elevated DHEAS levels interferes with lactation.
• The importance of establishing breastfeeding early on to ensure it occurs long-term.
• A problem with current breastfeeding studies — They are epidemiologic, not interventional.
• After pregnancy, continue to monitor your insulin and DHEAS levels.
• Some of the benefits of breastfeeding.
• For working mothers, it can be hard to maintain a breastfeeding schedule, but it is possible.

Tweetables:

“Little is known about the polycystic ovarian syndrome and breastfeeding and in spite of the reduced fertility in this condition, most women become pregnant and give birth. It’s not recognized as a factor that would potentially influence breastfeeding ability.” — Dr. Minni Malhotra [0:00:59]

“The ability to breastfeed depends on the endocrine stimulation, hormonal stimulation of the mammary glands preparing it for milk production and through a signal to initiate milk secretion after birth or in the post-partum period.” — Dr. Minni Malhotra [0:02:20]

“So, the main thing is actually once you get pregnant, you have to realize that you have normalized or you have at least optimized some of your hormones that made it possible for you to get pregnant. So, after pregnancy, if you reap the positive attitude and you continue the attempt to keep on breastfeeding, that is more important.” — Dr. Minni Malhotra [0:06:26]

Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:

Anchor Wellness Center

Dr. Minni Malhotra Email

PubMed