When we talk about postpartum care, breastfeeding often gets placed on a pedestal. It’s seen as natural, beautiful, and instinctive. And while it can be all of those things, what’s rarely discussed is the emotional toll it can take. Behind the serene mother-and-child images is a reality many women silently endure: breastfeeding burnout.
The Unspoken Emotional Weight of Breastfeeding
According to Dr Anupama Gangwal, Senior Consultant Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Cocoon hospital, Jaipur, breastfeeding burnout is “incredibly real, very common, and often unacknowledged.”
“The physical demands are already sky-high, requiring constant feeding on demand, around the clock. But they’re often compounded by emotional depletion, sleep loss, fluctuating hormones, and the continuous pressure to do it right,” she added.
Society tends to idealise breastfeeding, creating unrealistic expectations. Many mothers carry silent guilt and anxiety when things don’t go as planned, whether it’s low milk supply, latch issues, or the sheer exhaustion of it feeling like a 24/7 job. Dr Gangwal stresses the need to move towards a more compassionate model of support, one where maternal mental health is considered an essential part of infant care.
“We need to identify signs of burnout and create safe spaces for new moms to talk about their overwhelm,” she says. “Maternal mental health matters as much as clinical recommendations.”
Also Read: Doctor Answers The Most Common Question Breastfeeding Mothers Ask: Is My Baby Getting Enough Milk?
When Motherhood Feels Like a Non-Stop Job
Dr Aruna Kalra, Director of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, CK Birla Hospital, Gurgaon, highlights the physical and emotional toll breastfeeding can take. “It’s a 24×7 job with sleepless nights, often neglecting your own needs, like skipping meals or even delaying nature’s call,” she explains.
This neglect can lead to constipation, fissures, piles, and chronic back pain from prolonged sitting. If you’ve had a C-section or episiotomy, healing can be even more uncomfortable. Breast and nipple pain can feel relentless, adding to the fatigue.
Additionally, many women grapple with self-doubt, wondering if their milk is enough or feeling blamed for the baby’s fussiness. “People around them often shake their confidence, blaming their diet for the baby’s colic,” said Dr Kalra. Partners may also be emotionally or physically distant, viewing breastfeeding as solely the mother’s responsibility.
The Mental Load: More Than Just Tiredness
Burnout isn’t just about physical tiredness; it’s about emotional depletion. New mothers can start to feel isolated, thankless, and stripped of their individuality. There’s little space for love, entertainment, or even a moment’s break.
Over time, the mental strain can manifest as:
- Feeling like a ‘feeding machine’ rather than a person
- Resentment of the situation or even the infant (accompanied by guilt)
- Anxiety about milk supply and the baby’s health
- Irritability or emotional numbness
These emotions are genuine and legitimate. However, most mothers fear expressing themselves for fear of criticism.
Recognising the Signs of Breastfeeding Burnout
It’s important to be aware of when natural fatigue starts tipping into burnout. Warning signs can include:
- Constant irritability or mood swings
- Loss of interest in things you previously enjoyed
- Trouble bonding with your baby
- Physical symptoms like headaches, body aches, and insomnia, even when the baby sleeps
If these signs persist, it’s time to reach out for support from family, friends, or healthcare professionals.
Also Read: Should Or Shouldn't You Breastfeed With Both Breasts In One Session?
Why Support Systems Matter
Experts emphasise that breastfeeding should be a shared responsibility. While only the mother can physically feed the baby, partners and families can step in with emotional support, household help, and baby care between feeds. This could mean:
- Taking over chores so the mother can rest
- Offering words of encouragement rather than criticism
- Assisting with night-time burping, diaper changes, or soothing
- Advocating for her needs at family or social gatherings
Changing the Conversation
Breastfeeding is important, but never at the expense of a mother's emotional well-being. Let's shift the story from the ‘perfect breastfeeding mother’ to one that makes space for challenges, adaptation, and autonomy.
Empathy and compassion are paramount. As Dr Kalra states, "New mothers need support, not judgement." And as Dr Gangwal points out, maternal mental health is not a choice; it's an essential component to raising healthy, happy babies.
[Disclaimer: This article contains information provided by an expert and is for informational purposes only. Hence, we advise you to consult your professional if you are dealing with any health issue to avoid complications.]