The Postpartum Hormonal Journey: What’s Happening in Your Body?

After giving birth, your body embarks on are remarkable journey of recovery and adjustment, guided by powerful hormonal shifts. Understanding these changes can help new parents embrace this season with greater self-compassion.

✨ Estrogen & Progesterone Drop:

During pregnancy, these hormones are at their peak. After delivery, they plummet rapidly, which can lead to emotional ups and downs (aka the “baby blues”) and changes in energy levels.

✨ Oxytocin Increases:

Known as the “love hormone,” oxytocin surges after birth, especially during skin-to-skin contact and breastfeeding. It helps with bonding, milk letdown, and even contracting the uterus back to its pre-pregnancy size.

✨ Prolactin Takes Center Stage:

Prolactin is the key hormone for milk production. It also promotes feelings of calm and nurturing, helping new parents focus on their baby.

✨ Cortisol Spikes:

Postpartum cortisol levels can stay elevated due to sleep deprivation and the demands of caring for a newborn. This is a natural stress response, but it’s important to find ways to manage it through rest, support, and self-care.

✨ Thyroid Fluctuations:

Some people may experience postpartum thyroiditis, leading to temporary hyperthyroidism (feeling anxious or jittery) followed by hypothyroidism (fatigue and depression). Always check in with your healthcare provider if you notice prolonged symptoms.

✨ Mood Changes:

About 1 in 7 people experience postpartum depression or anxiety, often linked to these hormonal changes. If you’re feeling overwhelmed, know that you’re not alone and support is available.

Your postpartum body is doing extraordinary work to heal and nourish. Give yourself permission to rest, ask for help, and honor the transition.

What helped you feel supported during the postpartum phase? Share your experiences below!