Stress and cannot effectively coexist together. It just cannot. Stress doesn’t directly affect milk supply. The amount of milk your body makes depends on how often your baby nurses. The more milk he or she drinks, the more your body will make.
Stress can indirectly affect your milk supply, however, if you aren’t taking the time to eat or drink enough water or don’t have the time to nurse your baby as frequently as he or she needs because you are dealing with a stressful situation.
Stress causes your body to produce a hormone called cortisol, which can enter into your breastmilk, affecting its contents.
Stress can certainly slow the flow. But as long as a mother continues to nurse her baby, stress isn't likely to stop her milk production. Plus, research has found that breastfeeding reduces negative moods and stress – so nursing your baby can actually help you get through a stressful time.
Here are a few tips to reduce the stress not just while nursing but for an everyday healthier lifestyle:
Find the time to regularly exercise, such as enrolling in a baby/mom exercise class or taking a walk with your little one.
Exercise releases endorphins that can increase your happiness levels and help you to better deal with stress.
Practice deep-breathing techniques.Get out of the house and meet up with a friend to talk.
Take 15 to 20 minutes a day to do something you enjoy, such as reading a book.
Get as much sleep as possible. Try to nap when your baby is napping or nurse while lying down in order to get some extra rest.
Happy nursing, honey!!