How to Increase Milk Supply with Hypothyroidism

Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough hormones. It can significantly impact your health, including your ability to produce milk. If you’re struggling with milk supply due to hypothyroidism, understanding how it affects lactation and learning effective strategies can help you maintain a healthy milk supply for your baby.

Sections

1. Understanding hypothyroidism and lactation
2. Medical management
3. Diet and nutrition
4. Breastfeeding best practices
5. Supplements and herbal remedies
6. Stress management and self-care
7. Getting professional support
8. Abby’s personal experience
9. FAQs about breastfeeding with hypothyroidism

Understanding hypothyroidism and lactation

Thyroid hormones are critical for regulating many bodily functions, including milk production. When thyroid hormones are deficient, it can disrupt your body’s ability to produce and release breast milk. Common symptoms of hypothyroidism include:

• Fatigue
• Weight gain
• Cold intolerance
• Depression

Recognizing the symptoms and understanding their possible impact on breastfeeding is the first step toward effective management.

Medical management

Proper diagnosis and treatment of hypothyroidism are the two most important variables for maintaining a healthy milk supply.

What to do:

• Your health comes first:
  Focus on your personal health first; if you aren’t healthy, lactation should be secondary.
• Consult your doctor for regular thyroid function tests:
  Regular monitoring will help you understand what thyroid levels are optimal for both your overall health and lactation. Seeing a specialist such as an endocrinologist might be helpful in fine-tuning your hormones and health plan.
• Follow prescribed medication routines:
  Consistently taking your medication as prescribed is crucial for managing hypothyroidism.

What not to do:

• Do not self-adjust your medication without consulting your doctor:
  Changing dosages without professional guidance can disrupt your health and milk supply.
• Do not skip medical appointments and monitoring:
  Regular check-ups are essential for managing hypothyroidism effectively.

Diet and nutrition

A balanced diet is crucial for thyroid health and milk production. Here’s how to support both:

What to do:

• Include iodine-rich foods like seafood and dairy:
  Iodine is essential for thyroid hormone production, which supports both thyroid health and milk supply.
• Incorporate selenium-rich foods such as Brazil nuts, fish, and eggs:
  Selenium supports thyroid function and overall health. Adding a few Brazil nuts a day or including sources like fish and eggs in your meals can be beneficial.
• Maintain a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains:
  These provide essential nutrients that support overall health and lactation, ensuring you and your baby receive necessary vitamins and minerals.
• Stay hydrated:
  Proper hydration is crucial for maintaining milk supply. Consider adding electrolytes to your fluids to support hydration and maintain electrolyte balance, which can further enhance milk production.

What not to do:

• Don’t consume highly processed and sugary foods:
  These can contribute to weight gain and other health issues, potentially affecting both thyroid function and milk quality.
• Don’t eat excessive amounts of goitrogenic foods (e.g., raw cabbage, broccoli, and soy) without medical advice:
  These foods can interfere with thyroid hormone production, especially when consumed in large quantities. Consult your healthcare provider to determine the appropriate intake based on your thyroid health needs.

Breastfeeding best practices

Effective breastfeeding techniques can help ensure your baby is getting enough milk and can stimulate your milk production.

What to do:

• Frequently breastfeed and pump to stimulate supply:
  Regular milk removal (about every 2-3 hours) signals your body to produce more milk.
• Understand proper latch and comfortable breastfeeding positions:
  A good latch and comfortable position can prevent issues like nipple pain and ineffective milk removal. Learn more about proper latch
• Do skin-to-skin contact with your baby:
  This can enhance milk production and promote bonding.

What not to do:

• Don’t ignore signs of poor latch or ineffective feeding:
  Addressing these issues promptly can prevent further complications.
• Avoid long gaps between breastfeeding sessions:
  Frequent feeding helps maintain a steady milk supply.

Supplements and herbal remedies

Certain supplements and herbs can support milk production, but it’s important to use them safely, especially with hypothyroidism. Here’s a closer look at how some herbs affect hypothyroidism:

1. Blessed Thistle: Generally considered safe for use with hypothyroidism, but like all supplements, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider before use, as individual responses can vary.
2. Fennel: Fennel is usually safe, but it has mild estrogenic properties, which could potentially affect hormone levels. It’s best to use fennel under the guidance of a healthcare provider, particularly with thyroid conditions.
3. Milk Thistle: Milk thistle is primarily known for its liver-supporting properties and is generally safe for those with hypothyroidism. It doesn’t have a direct impact on thyroid function, but it’s still advisable to consult with a healthcare provider.
4. Goat’s Rue: Goat’s rue should be used with caution in those with hypothyroidism. There’s limited research on its effects on thyroid function, but it may influence hormone levels and blood sugar, which can be concerning for thyroid health.
5. Alfalfa: Alfalfa contains phytoestrogens, which could potentially interfere with thyroid function. It’s advisable to avoid or use it cautiously under medical supervision if you have hypothyroidism.
6. Fenugreek: Fenugreek is commonly believed to enhance milk production, but if you have hypothyroidism, it’s important to consult your healthcare provider before using it. There is some concern that fenugreek could potentially interfere with thyroid function in certain individuals, so it should be used with caution.

Herbal Summary:

• Use with caution: Fennel, Goat’s Rue, and Alfalfa.
• Generally safe: Blessed Thistle and Milk Thistle.

• Note

While many people use these herbs and supplements to support milk production, it’s important to recognize that there isn’t strong scientific evidence proving their effectiveness. Always consult with your healthcare provider before incorporating them into your diet, particularly if you have hypothyroidism.

High-iodine foods

Certain sources of iodine can potentially interfere with thyroid function or the effectiveness of treatment. Here’s a list of high-iodine food items and how they might affect hypothyroidism:

1. Kelp and Seaweed: Kelp and other seaweeds are extremely high in iodine, which can lead to excessive iodine intake. This is particularly problematic for those with hypothyroidism, as too much iodine can further disrupt thyroid function, especially in conditions like Hashimoto’s thyroiditis.
2. Iodized Salt: While iodized salt is a common source of iodine, the amount typically consumed through diet might not cause issues. However, individuals with hypothyroidism should be cautious about their total iodine intake, especially if they are already getting sufficient iodine from other sources.
3. Dairy Products: Dairy products can contain variable amounts of iodine, particularly in regions where iodine-fortified feed is used for cattle. For most people with hypothyroidism, moderate consumption is usually not a problem, but it’s something to monitor if your diet includes other high-iodine foods.
4. Fish and Seafood: Fish and seafood are naturally high in iodine. Regular or excessive consumption of these can contribute to high iodine levels, which might aggravate thyroid imbalances in those with hypothyroidism.
5. Iodine-Containing Multivitamins: Multivitamins that contain iodine can contribute to an excessive iodine intake, particularly when combined with other dietary sources. This can potentially interfere with thyroid function and is generally advised against for those with hypothyroidism.
6. Baked Goods: Certain baked goods contain iodine due to the use of iodine-containing dough conditioners. While typically not a major source, it’s another potential contributor to overall iodine intake that should be considered.
7. Processed Foods: Like baked goods, processed foods can contain iodine, particularly if they are made with iodized salt or iodine-containing additives. Overconsumption can lead to excessive iodine intake.
8. Eggs: Eggs do contain iodine, but typically in moderate amounts. They are generally considered safe to eat in moderation for individuals with hypothyroidism unless advised otherwise by a healthcare provider.

High-Iodine Food Summary:

• Proven reasons to avoid: Kelp and Seaweed, Iodine-Containing Multivitamins.
• Caution advised: Iodized Salt, Dairy Products, Fish and Seafood, Baked Goods, Processed Foods.
• Generally safe in moderation: Eggs.

If you have hypothyroidism, managing iodine intake is crucial. Overconsumption of high-iodine products, especially kelp, seaweed, and iodine-containing supplements, should be avoided to prevent the worsening of thyroid imbalances. Always consult with a healthcare provider and/or a certified registered dietician to determine the appropriate dietary adjustments for your specific condition.

What to do:

You should consult with your healthcare provider before using any of these supplements or herbs, especially if you have hypothyroidism. Your provider can help you determine which options are safe and appropriate for your specific health needs.

What not to do:

• Use caution with fenugreek:
  While fenugreek is often used to boost breastmilk supply, if you have hypothyroidism, it’s important to consult your healthcare provider before using it. There is some concern that fenugreek could potentially interfere with thyroid function in certain individuals, though evidence is not conclusive.
• Avoid high-iodine products and kelp supplements:
  High-iodine products and kelp supplements can exacerbate thyroid imbalances, especially in those with thyroid conditions. Excessive iodine intake can lead to worsened symptoms or further disrupt thyroid function. It’s best to avoid these products unless advised otherwise by a healthcare provider.

Stress management and self-care

Managing stress and caring for yourself are vital for maintaining a healthy milk supply.

What to do:

• Practice stress-reducing techniques like meditation, yoga, or deep breathing: These can help manage stress and improve overall well-being.
• Get adequate rest and sleep: Rest is crucial for recovery and maintaining a healthy milk supply.
• Engage in gentle exercise as recommended by your doctor: Physical activity can improve mood and energy levels without overexerting yourself.
• Be aware of the signs of postpartum depression:
  Depression often co-occurs with hypothyroidism. If you notice symptoms such as trouble bonding with your baby, persistent hopelessness, feelings of guilt, or thoughts of harming yourself or your baby, reach out to your healthcare provider immediately to discuss possible treatment options.

What not to do:

• Don’t ignore the signs of stress and fatigue:
  Addressing these early can prevent further complications.
• Avoid overexerting yourself physically and mentally:
  Balance activity with rest to avoid burnout.

Professional support

Seeking professional support can be invaluable in managing hypothyroidism and maintaining a healthy milk supply.

What to do:

• Seek support from IBCLCs and other breastfeeding experts:
  Lactation consultants can provide personalized advice and support. Schedule a consultation
• Regularly communicate with your healthcare team about your thyroid and lactation status:
  Keeping your healthcare providers informed helps with coordinated care.
• Ask for help if you’re struggling:
  Early intervention can make a significant difference.

Advanced breastfeeding help we offer

What not to do:

• Avoid assuming that all breastfeeding issues are solely due to hypothyroidism without professional input:
  Other factors may also be at play.

Breastfeeding issues that might be confused with hypothyroidism-related issues

1. Poor latch or positioning:
   • What It Is: If your baby isn’t latching properly, they may not be able to transfer enough milk, which can reduce your milk supply.
   • What to Do: Check the baby’s latch and positioning. A lactation consultant can help you with this. If adjusting the latch improves milk transfer, the issue might not be related to your thyroid.
2. Infant oral issues (e.g., tongue-tie, lip-tie):
   • What It Is: Conditions like tongue-tie can make it difficult for your baby to latch effectively, leading to poor milk intake and supply.
   • What to Do: Have your baby’s mouth checked by a healthcare provider or lactation consultant. If an oral issue is found and corrected, and breastfeeding improves, your concerns may be unrelated to hypothyroidism.
3. Delayed or infrequent feedings:
   • What It Is: Not breastfeeding or pumping frequently enough can cause a drop in milk supply.
   • What to Do: Try to breastfeed or pump more frequently. If increasing the frequency of feedings boosts your milk supply, this might not be a thyroid issue.
4. Maternal stress or fatigue:
   • What It Is: High stress or lack of sleep can affect your milk production and overall well-being.
   • What to Do: Take steps to manage stress and ensure you’re getting as much rest as possible. If reducing stress and getting more rest improve your situation, the problem may not be due to your thyroid.
5. Previous breast surgery or injury:
   • What It Is: Past breast surgeries or injuries can impact your ability to produce milk.
   • What to Do: Consider your surgical history. If you’ve had breast surgery, discuss this with your healthcare provider, as the issue may stem from that rather than hypothyroidism.
6. Use of certain medications:
   • What It Is: Some medications can interfere with milk production.
   • What to Do: Review any medications you’re taking with your healthcare provider. If a medication is affecting your milk supply, adjusting or switching it might resolve the issue.
7. Supplementing with formula:
   • What It Is: Giving your baby formula can reduce their demand for breast milk, leading to lower supply.
   • What to Do: Consider reducing or spacing out formula feeds to encourage more breastfeeding. If your milk supply increases with less formula use, the issue might not be related to your thyroid.
8. Hormonal imbalances (other than hypothyroidism):
   • What It Is: Conditions like PCOS can affect milk supply.
   • What to Do: If you suspect other hormonal imbalances, discuss them with your healthcare provider. If treating these improves your milk supply, the problem may not be solely due to hypothyroidism.
9. Dehydration or poor nutrition:
   • What It Is: Not drinking enough water or poor nutrition can lower your milk supply.
   • What to Do: Make sure you’re staying hydrated and eating a balanced diet. If improving your hydration and nutrition helps your milk supply, the concern may not be thyroid-related.

Personal hypothyroidism story from Abby Devitt

Abby helps us see the importance of having a support system, including doctors, lactation consultants, and family, especially when facing challenges like postpartum depression. Her story shows that with the right support, breastfeeding with hypothyroidism is possible.

“I had my thyroid removed completely before I conceived my first child. I was nervous about carrying a child and breastfeeding knowing that my body wasn’t producing those hormones naturally anymore.

However, I was assured by my healthcare team that it was possible. With careful monitoring by my doctors, I was able to have a normal pregnancy and deliver a healthy baby girl. Breastfeeding was a learning curve just as any other aspect of parenting is, but I was able to produce the exact amount of milk that my child needed.

I did eventually develop postpartum depression around three months, but again with my healthcare team, I was able to get help quickly. I had challenges to overcome, but the common thread that helped me succeed despite my hypothyroidism was having a team of people I could count on! This included my OBGYN, an endocrinologist, a therapist, a lactation consultant, and, of course, close family and friends. They all gave me my best shot at breastfeeding with hypothyroidism.

It is SO possible, but don’t do it alone. There are so many wonderful people out there who care about your health, and all the effort you put into each phone call or visit pays off enormously.”

Abby Devitt, IBCLC Mentee with TLC

Frequently asked questions about breastfeeding with hypothyroidism

What is hypothyroidism?
Hypothyroidism is a condition where the thyroid gland doesn’t produce enough thyroid hormones, affecting various bodily functions, including milk production.

How does hypothyroidism affect milk supply?
Low thyroid hormone levels can disrupt the body’s ability to produce and release breast milk, making it hard to maintain an adequate milk supply.

What are the common symptoms of hypothyroidism?
Symptoms include fatigue, weight gain, cold intolerance, and depression, which can complicate breastfeeding efforts.

How can I get diagnosed with hypothyroidism?
Diagnosis involves consulting a doctor and undergoing regular thyroid function tests to monitor hormone levels.

What kind of treatment is available for hypothyroidism?
Treatment typically involves thyroid hormone replacement therapy, which must be monitored and adjusted by a healthcare provider.

What should I do if I have hypothyroidism and want to breastfeed?
Follow prescribed medication routines, maintain a balanced diet, practice effective breastfeeding techniques, manage stress, and seek professional support.

What foods should I eat to support my thyroid health?
Include iodine-rich foods such as seafood and dairy, and maintain a balanced diet with plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.

What foods should I avoid with hypothyroidism?
Avoid highly processed foods, those high in sugar, and limit goitrogens like raw cabbage, broccoli, and soy if advised by your doctor.

What breastfeeding techniques can help increase milk supply?
Frequent breastfeeding and pumping, understanding proper latch and comfortable positions, and doing skin-to-skin contact with your baby.

What supplements are safe to take to increase milk supply with hypothyroidism?
Consider lactation teas approved by your healthcare provider and consult a healthcare provider before starting any new supplements.

Which supplements should be avoided due to thyroid interference?
Avoid fenugreek and high-iodine products like kelp, which can disrupt thyroid function.

How does stress affect milk supply?
Stress increases cortisol levels, which can interfere with the release of oxytocin, the hormone needed for milk letdown. This can make it seem like your milk supply is low, even if you’re producing enough. Stress can also lead to fatigue, reduced breastfeeding frequency, and poor self-care, further diminishing milk supply.

How does stress affect thyroid function?
Stress affects the hypothalamic-pituitary-adrenal (HPA) axis, which can suppress thyroid function and worsen symptoms of hypothyroidism, such as fatigue, weight gain, and mood swings. Chronic stress can make it harder to manage hypothyroidism effectively.

What self-care routines can help manage stress and support lactation?
Practice stress-reducing techniques like meditation and yoga, ensure adequate rest, and gentle exercise.

When should I seek professional support for breastfeeding issues related to hypothyroidism?
You should seek professional support as soon as you notice any challenges with breastfeeding, such as low milk supply or difficulty with milk letdown. Schedule an initial consultation with a lactation consultant early on, ideally within the first week after birth, to assess your breastfeeding technique and address any concerns. Continue to communicate with your healthcare team whenever you notice changes in your thyroid symptoms or breastfeeding patterns. Regular check-ins are important to adjust your care plan as needed and ensure coordinated support for both your thyroid condition and lactation.

What can I do if I feel overwhelmed or discouraged by breastfeeding challenges with hypothyroidism?
Stay informed, proactive, and reach out for help. Persistence and support are key to overcoming these challenges.