 Breastfeeding After a Hysterectomy? |
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I recently delivered a baby. My doctor told me I will need a hysterectomy/BSO. Will I still be able to breastfeed after my hysterectomy? How will hormones affect this? Will not having a uterus and ovaries make me unable to produce breast milk?
It's possible to breastfeed after a hysterectomy. You don't need a uterus or ovaries in order to be able to nurse your baby. Breastfeeding is regulated by hormones secreted by the hypothalmus and the pituitary glands. Your milk production is not affected by removing your ovaries and/or the uterus.
Estrogens may decrease the quantity and quality of breast milk; therefore, if you will be treating your menopausal symptoms with HRT, you may want to ask your doctor if you can do this while nursing or if you should wait until you wean your baby before starting HRT.
You'll want to ask your doctor how soon after surgery you may begin nursing your baby. You may also want to pump and store some of your own milk for the day of your surgery.
When you begin nursing, you'll want to protect your tender tummy. You may prefer the side lying position during the first day or so after surgery. Turn slowly on your side and, if you have an incision, put a rolled up towel or small pillow next to it in case the baby kicks. It may be challenging to find a comfortable position in the early days after surgery. How to hold your baby will differ depending on what type of surgery you will have.
Good luck with your surgery and with continuing to breastfeed. Remember to always check with your doctor if you have any questions about your post op recovery and how it will affect breastfeeding your baby.
This content was written by staff of HysterSisters.com by non-medical professionals based on discussions, resources and input from other patients for the purpose of patient-to-patient support.
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-- January NewsletterPost Hysterectomy Fitness and Health is the theme of our January, 2012 newsletter at HysterSisters.com. Visit this link [ More]...
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