Stress Can Hamper Breastfeeding, This Is The Importance Of Emotional Support For Breastfeeding Mothers

JAKARTA - After giving birth, a mother will generally breastfeed or give her mother's milk (ASI) to her baby. In the breastfeeding process, there are many challenges faced, one of which is breast milk that is hampered.

Breast milk can be caused by fatigue, anxiety, and stress. Therefore, according to Consultant Laktasi at the Cloudnine Group of Hospitals, Dr. Vidhi Mehta, the mental health of good breastfeeding mothers is very important.

"The mental health of a mother can form a breastfeeding journey, both in a positive direction and vice versa," said Doctor Vidhi, quoted from Hindustian Time, on Friday, September 12, 2025.

Stress experienced by breastfeeding mothers can occur due to changes in life after giving birth. Begadang every night, the process of recovering the body has not been completed, drastic hormonal changes, and social pressure.

"It's natural that in the first few weeks a mother feels low, easily crying or anxious," he said.

If the stress lasts a long time and is not overcome, then breast milk can be hampered and interfere with the baby's intake. Breast milk is actually produced naturally by the body, and in order to exit smoothly requires the role of the hormone oxytocin.

Oxytocin hormones can be released when the mother feels calm, safe, and supported by the surrounding environment. Therefore, it is important for breastfeeding mothers to maintain calm of mind and emotion.

"This does not mean that breast milk is lost, but the body is more difficult to remove it. Therefore, I always remind mothers that the mind needs care as important as the body," he added.

Not only from yourself, emotional support must also be given by those closest to breastfeeding mothers. Like a partner who helps in taking care of a baby, to just being a good listener without judging.

"Sometimes a greeting like 'you've done your best' or 'I'm here for you', it can ease the burden on a mother tremendously," concluded Doctor Vidhi.