Post Weaning Depression
Post-Weaning Depression
Most people don’t talk about postpartum depression—let alone post-weaning depression.
I had to wean earlier than I would’ve liked due to a painful cut on one breast that wouldn’t heal, even after six months of exclusively pumping with my second child. My daughter also began losing interest in nursing around seven months—too curious about the world, too independent, already preferring to drink from a cup instead of a bottle.
Looking back, I realize many babies lose interest around this time. You often have to push through—and I did with my third and fourth.
When you’re nursing, your body releases oxytocin, which helps you feel deeply connected to your baby. You also produce prolactin, the hormone responsible for milk production, which brings a sense of calm and relaxation. If only you could bottle up those hormones—you’d have instant feelings of closeness and peace.
Once those hormones start to drop, it can feel like a fog sets in. I found myself needing to work harder to be present with my kids and to feel joy in my passions—like cooking and sharing knowledge about the psychology of food and kids. For a while, those passions had to take a back seat.
Two months later, my hormones have finally started to balance again. To any mom going through this: please know you’re not alone. It’s okay to ask for help.
I’m so thankful for my husband, family, and friends who showed up for me. Being a mom is one of the hardest jobs in the world—it’s 24/7, with no breaks. I’m lucky to have a partner who recognizes and values the incredible amount of work it takes to raise children.
If you’re experiencing something similar, here are a few things that helped me:
💛 Movement: I started small—just 10 minutes of walking on the treadmill or outside—and slowly built from there. Having an accountability partner made all the difference.
🧪 Lab Work: Getting my labs checked helped identify what I needed to supplement.
💊 Supplements:
Fish Oil – love @we_natal fish oil capsules
High-dose Vitamin D3 – MaryRuth Organics liquid
Methylated B12 – MaryRuth Organics liquid
Saffron – from The Fullest
Magnesium – glycinate is gentle, but threonate may cross the blood-brain barrier better. Check out my blog on this and brands I like
Rhodiola – can help with energy
Iron – many women are iron deficient postpartum. I love Thorne Ferrasorb and Heart & Soil Liver Pills.
You are not alone in this. Healing takes time—but it’s possible. 💗