The Connection Between Labor Induction and Breast Milk Supply:
What You Need to Know
Author: Dr. Jimi Francis, PhD, IBCLC, RDN, LD, RLC
The miracle of bringing new life into the world is a significant moment for every parent, and the journey of pregnancy and childbirth is unique for every family. One common concern among expecting mothers is whether labor induction can affect their ability to breastfeed.
Labor induction is a medical procedure. Some doctors may recommend inducing labor to initiate or speed up the birthing process. Inductions can occur for various reasons, such as medical conditions, overdue pregnancies, or complications that may arise during gestation. Research reports indicate that reducing or discontinuing oxytocin once active labor is underway can minimize complications.1 Although it is commonly performed, many mothers wonder if it has any implications for breastfeeding.
Understanding the hormonal changes that occur during childbirth and how labor induction can affect breast milk supply is essential. Oxytocin, the “love hormone2,” is critical for labor and breastfeeding. During labor, oxytocin is released to stimulate contractions and facilitate delivery. Oxytocin is essential for breastfeeding because it triggers the let-down reflex. When oxytocin is removed from the brain and circulates into the breast tissue, it binds to the receptors surrounding the milk ducts, causing the muscles around the ducts to give a firm hug, which causes milk to flow down the ducts and out the nipples. Some experts have speculated that labor induction, which artificially triggers oxytocin release, may impact the natural breastfeeding process.3
While some studies suggest that labor induction may delay the start of breastfeeding,3 most experts agree that the long-term success of breastfeeding is minimally impacted. The initial delay in breastfeeding may be due to factors such as fatigue, medical interventions, or the need for neonatal care rather than the method of labor induction itself.4
Breastfeeding is an important aspect of newborn care, and it’s essential to prioritize it even after labor induction. Here are three critical elements for supporting breastfeeding after labor induction:
1. Skin-to-skin contact: Encourage skin-to-skin contact with your newborn as soon as possible after delivery.5 This will promote bonding and stimulate oxytocin release, which is beneficial for breastfeeding.6
2. Early breastfeeding attempts: Initiate breastfeeding as soon after the baby’s birth as possible, even if it’s a brief attempt. This helps establish the breastfeeding relationship and encourages the flow of colostrum, which is crucial for the baby’s nutrition.7
3. Seek lactation support: If you encounter difficulties with breastfeeding or have concerns about your milk supply, don’t hesitate to seek support from a lactation consultant.8
In conclusion, although labor induction may cause a temporary delay in breastfeeding initiation, it’s unlikely to impact milk supply substantially. The key is to prioritize early breastfeeding attempts, seek support when needed, and focus on establishing a solid breastfeeding relationship with your newborn. Remember, every birthing experience is unique, and with appropriate support, you can navigate the journey of motherhood with confidence and joy.
References
1. Simpson KR. Considerations for Active Labor Management with Oxytocin: More May Not be Better. MCN Am J Matern Nurs. 2020;45(4):248. doi:10.1097/NMC.0000000000000639
2. Sharma SR, Gonda X, Dome P, Tarazi FI. What’s Love Got to do with it: Role of oxytocin in trauma, attachment and resilience. Pharmacol Ther. 2020;214:107602. doi:10.1016/J.PHARMTHERA.2020.107602
3. Erickson EN, Emeis CL. Breastfeeding Outcomes After Oxytocin Use During Childbirth: An Integrative Review. J Midwifery Women’s Heal. Published online 2017. doi:10.1111/jmwh.12601
4. Walter MH, Abele H, Plappert CF. The Role of Oxytocin and the Effect of Stress During Childbirth: Neurobiological Basics and Implications for Mother and Child. Front Endocrinol (Lausanne). 2021;12. doi:10.3389/FENDO.2021.742236
5. Widström AM, Brimdyr K, Svensson K, Cadwell K, Nissen E. Skin-to-skin contact the first hour after birth, underlying implications and clinical practice. Acta Paediatr Int J Paediatr. 2019;108(7):1192-1204. doi:10.1111/apa.14754
6. Karimi FZ, Sadeghi R, Maleki-Saghooni N, Khadivzadeh T. The effect of mother-infant skin to skin contact on success and duration of first breastfeeding: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Taiwan J Obstet Gynecol. 2019;58(1):1-9. doi:10.1016/J.TJOG.2018.11.002
7. Fan HSL, Wong JYH, Fong DYT, Lok KYW, Tarrant M. Association between early-term birth and breastfeeding initiation, duration, and exclusivity: A systematic review. Birth. 2019;46(1):24-34. doi:10.1111/BIRT.12380
8. Bonuck K, Stuebe A, Barnett J, Labbok M, Fletcher J, Bernstein P. Effect of Primary Care Intervention on Breastfeeding Duration and Intensity. J Public Health (Bangkok). 2014;104:S119-S127. doi:https://doi.org/10.2105/AJPH.2013.301360
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