Having a baby is an exciting and life-changing event. The body goes through an enormous amount of change during pregnancy. When the baby arrives, hormonal changes continue. The caring OB-GYN staff at Advanced OB-GYN Services in Saint Peters & Bridgeton, MO, discuss what new mothers can expect after delivery.

5 Changes to Expect After Pregnancy

1. Menopause-Like Symptoms

After delivery, levels of estrogen and progesterone drop dramatically. The hormone shift continues throughout breastfeeding. Women may experience symptoms similar to menopause, including night sweats, hot flashes, vaginal dryness, thinning hair, and a low sex drive. The issues should subside after 12 months, depending on how long you breastfeed. If they persist or seem severe, reach out to an OB-GYN.

2. Fatigue

New levels of tiredness are normal—you are likely sleep-deprived and adjusting to the baby and stress of motherhood. However, if the fatigue is extreme and you find it difficult to get out of bed, you may be experiencing a shift in the thyroid hormone thyroxine. One in 10 women may experience thyroid dysfunction in the months after pregnancy. Hypothyroidism, or low thyroid, can bring fatigue and low spirits. If you feel excessively tired, speak with an OB-GYN about testing your levels. 

3. Weight Gain

Holding onto some baby weight is normal within the first year. Breastfeeding may help you lose initial pounds, but an extra 10 or so may remain. If you eat well and exercise but continue to gain or hold onto significant weight after 12 months or so, you may have a thyroid hormone imbalance or fluctuating estrogen levels.

4. Baby Blues

It’s normal to feel overwhelmed, weepy, and exhausted after pregnancy. Finding time and compassion for yourself is important. If your low spirits persist or become more severe, then you may have postpartum depression. Fluctuating levels of estrogen, progesterone, and thyroid hormones can all contribute to the condition. A lack of the hormone prolactin, necessary for breastfeeding, may also contribute to mood disorders. If you have low milk production or any of the above symptoms, consult with a specialist for solutions.

5. Lack of Periods

If you are breastfeeding, the prolactin needed for milk production may prevent your menstrual cycle from returning. If your period does not resume after a few months or is very light, consult with a doctor to ensure there was no damage during birth to the pituitary gland. The problem is quite rare, but difficult births can sometimes cause a shock to the pituitary, which controls hormone production in the body. 

Post-pregnancy hormone changes can create many of the above symptoms, so it’s helpful to prepare and know what to expect. Most of these are normal and will pass, but if you are concerned, turn to the skilled and compassionate team at Advanced OB-GYN Services. They offer complete pre-and post-natal care and women’s health exams. Call (636) 928-1800 to schedule an appointment today, or visit the OB-GYN online to learn more about pregnancy care.