Breastfeeding and obesity in PCOS
C L Harrison1, H J Teede1,2, A E Joham1
1a Monash Centre for Health Research and Implementation (MCHRI), School of Public Health and Preventive Medicine , Monash University , Clayton , Australia.
Expert Review of Endocrinology & Metabolism
|July 31, 2018
Summary
Obesity and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) significantly hinder breastfeeding success. Targeted lactation support is crucial for overweight and obese women, including those with PCOS, to improve maternal and infant health outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Reproductive endocrinology and women's health.
Background:
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) affects up to 18% of reproductive-aged women, causing reproductive, metabolic, and psychological issues.
- Obesity is strongly associated with PCOS, exacerbating its features and increasing weight gain.
- PCOS may contribute to reduced breastfeeding initiation and duration.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the association between obesity, PCOS, and breastfeeding success.
- To identify factors through which obesity impacts breastfeeding.
- To explore interventions for improving breastfeeding in this population.
Main Methods:
- A narrative review of studies indexed in PubMed was conducted.
- The review focused on the interplay of obesity, PCOS, and breastfeeding outcomes.
- Interventions to enhance breastfeeding success were also examined.
Main Results:
- Obesity negatively affects breastfeeding due to impaired lactogenesis, mechanical issues, psychological factors, and increased C-section rates.
- The high prevalence of obesity in PCOS likely underlies the observed breastfeeding challenges in these women.
- Obesity contributes to reduced breastfeeding initiation and duration.
Conclusions:
- Obesity is a key factor in the breastfeeding difficulties experienced by women with PCOS.
- Effective lactation support is essential for overweight and obese women, with or without PCOS.
- Optimizing breastfeeding benefits maternal and infant health, underscoring the need for targeted interventions.
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