Effects of breastfeeding on hypoestrogenic symptoms in postpartum women

Abstract

Objective: To assess the frequency and severity of hypoestrogenic symptoms in lactating and nonlactating women during the postpartum period.Study design: Women were recruited in the immediate postpartum period and evaluated during the immediate postpartum period, at 3 weeks postpartum and at 6 weeks postpartum, using self-ranked symptoms questionnaires. Hypoestrogenic symptoms were assessed using a modified Kupperman index, a menopausal symptoms questionnaire. Mood changes were evaluated using the Stein Survey, a postpartum mood changes questionnaire.Results: Of 233 women recruited, 74% intended to breastfeed. The frequency and severity of most hypoestrogenic symptoms, including hot flashes, were low for both groups. However, at the 3- and 6-week postpartum evaluations, breastfeeding women were more likely to report vaginal dryness than those who did not breastfeed (17% versus 2% at 6 weeks,P <0.05).Conclusions: The isolated finding of increased reported vaginal dryness among breastfeeding women may suggest that lower estrogen levels are clinically evident in these women, but not to the extent that hot flashes would be prevalent.