High allostatic load in women in the third trimester associated with delayed onset of lactogenesis: A prospective...

Stress is an important factor affecting postpartum lactation and is associated with the delayed onset of lactogenesis. Allostatic load is a comprehensive index for measuring chronic stress that effectively reflects the degree of chronic stress in pregnant women. However, no studies have explored the relationship between allostatic load and delayed onset of lactogenesis in pregnant women.

Stress is a common life experience associated with the onset of chronic diseases. Recently, postpartum lactation issues resulting from stress during pregnancy have garnered considerable attention.

To investigate allostatic load levels and determine the incidence of delayed onset of lactogenesis, exploring the relationship between the two.

In this prospective study, 220 pregnant women were included. Allostatic load and delayed onset of lactogenesis were assessed. A multifactorial logistic regression model was used to analyse the association between allostatic load and delayed onset of lactogenesis.

Women in the third trimester had high allostatic load associated with an increased risk of delayed onset of lactogenesis (OR=1.90, 95%CI: 1.016-3.619, P = 0.043), and caesarean birth and separation of mother and child were influential factors for delayed onset of lactogenesis (OR=2.51, 95%CI: 1.096-5.748, P = 0.029; OR=2.366, 95%CI: 1.046-5.354, P = 0.039). The association between high allostatic load in the third trimester and the risk of delayed onset of lactogenesis was stronger among employed pregnant women (OR=2.852, 95%CI: 1.347-6.039, P = 0.019 for interaction term effects).

This study is the first to investigate the effect of stress during pregnancy on postpartum delayed onset of lactogenesis from an allostatic load perspective.

Women who experience higher levels of stress during pregnancy may require early access to breastfeeding support to ensure successful lactation.