Is extended breastfeeding causing terrible mood swings?

[Lovelycardigan]

I just wanted to see if there was any causation here and if anyone experienced this.

I am still breastfeeding my 2yr old, but have had terrible mood swings since getting pregnant. I have menstruated since LO was 4 months old and my mood swings have got progressively worse to the point that after ovulation, my mood steadily hits the floor, I'm irritable, depressed and even paranoid until I have a period. I have about a week if the month where I feel 'normal' and I am not affected by my hormones. I feel positive around this time, but it is always short lived.

It's really starting to ruin my life and relationship with OH. He says I hardly smile, and am preoccupied and 'zoned out' most of the time. I am really worried my LO picks up on this. I have started to argue with OH, which we never did before. I even find it hard at work as it affects me so much. It's embarrassing as sometimes I get really tearful and look like a neurotic mess in front of my colleagues. I don't feel like myself at all and it's getting me down being such a slave to my monthly cycle.

Has anyone experienced this? I have thought about taking a supplement, but not sure what is appropriate while BF. I don't want to take Vitex as my libido is non existent already.

I would like to wean, but LO is extremely attached to breast. It will be a very slow process with lots of tears! I am willing to do this though if it brings some normality back.

That sounds awful, Lovelycardigan :(

Breastfeeding can be associated with mood, but not in the cyclical way you describe. When BF is very well established as yours is, hormones are minimal - especially as you are having normal periods. Prolactin hormone with BF as long lasting as yours is minimal - check out autocrine versus endocrine breastfeeding on google.

Sounds like you would be helped with a proper evaluation by a doctor - have you spoken to your GP at all?

It sounds really difficult.

Did you have any underlying non-neurotypical symptoms, or a diagnosis, before you were pregnant the first time?

I know that ADHD can significantly worsen post-partum, mine definitely has. I'm quite moody and volatile, and find it very hard to stay focussed and remember things. I'm also much more anxious than normal. I'm considering giving up breastfeeding as a result. I do find a good vitamin B and omega supplement helps though - I'm taking this and this.

I haven't yet as I hear they tend to put you on anti-depressants for hormonal issues or recommend the coil. I really don't want either.

I am considering trying Maca for regulating hormones, but am a bit worried about passing this in to BM. I have felt great on it previously.

I will look up what you suggested. Sounded very interesting and may shed some light on what is going on. It could well be just psychological and a change of identity being a mother, but it seems very cyclical to me, which points to a hormonal imbalance.

Thanks for your advice, I will take a look later.

If you speak to the doctor, just tell him/her you prefer not to use anti-depressants or the coil, if that is your choice....no one can 'put' you on anything you don't want to be 'put' on :) :)

It sounds as if there are various avenues to explore, and you're right to want it sorted as it's affecting every part of your life. You shouldn't have to put up with it any more!

Good luck.