The Intersection of Lactation and Maternal Mental Health

Written By Stephanie DeFilippis

September 3rd, 2024

Written By: Jeni Gentry, Crescent Moon Advanced Clinical Intern

September is PCOS Awareness Month!

Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a common hormonal condition that affects women of reproductive age. PCOS typically starts during adolescence, but symptoms may come and go over time. PCOS can cause hormonal imbalances, irregular periods, excess androgen levels and cysts in the ovaries. Irregular periods and a lack of ovulation can bring fertility challenges making PCOS a leading cause of infertility.

For the purposes of this blog, we are going to discuss the impact PCOS can have on mental health.

Body Image Issues and Self-Esteem

  • Symptoms can include weight gain, acne, and excessive body hair growth. 

  • Symptoms may lead to a negative self-perception due to societal norms on women’s appearance.

Fertility

  • Difficulties getting pregnant can strain relationships. 

  • Fertility treatments can further intensify the strain on relationships. 

Lactation

  • Hormonal imbalances can interfere with milk production

  • Some people with PCOS may not have developed enough glandular tissue which can result in low milk production

Hormonal Fluctuations and Mood

  • Irregular menstrual cycles can exacerbate mental health issues, including anxiety and depression. 

  • Symptoms, such as body hair and menstrual problems, have been found to strongly predict anxiety.

How does therapy help? Working with a therapist can:

  • Help you to develop strategies to manage symptoms

  • Improve self esteem

  • Find new approaches to healthy lifestyle changes 

  • Support families through fertility challenges

  • Explore how PCOS impacts you specifically as an individual

PCOS can impact the mental health of women throughout their childbearing years. If you are finding living with this condition challenging to your mental health or your relationships, consider working with a Perinatal Mental Health Professional. Therapists who specialize in perinatal mental health (PMH-C) are educated on the full spectrum of challenges of the parenting experience.

PCOS Resources:

Stephanie DeFilippis
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The Intersection of Lactation and Maternal Mental Health