IVF and breastfeeding: Myths vs facts every new mother should know

“Will I be able to nurse my baby?” is one of the most common concerns I encounter from first-time mothers who are IVF patients. There is confusion, there is mixed information, and of course, there is worry. Little do most women know that, in the vast majority of cases, breastfeeding is not only possible after IVF — it is entirely natural and achievable.

Myth #1: IVF disrupts the capacity to produce breast milk.
Fact: The way one conceives does not impact one’s ability to breastfeed. It is the hormone activity at the time of pregnancy and after childbirth that determines milk supply. It is the postpartum shedding of the placenta that causes levels of prolactin to rise, responsible for milk production. This holds true for both naturally conceived pregnancies and those resulting from IVF. In the absence of medical conditions which disrupt hormonal balance or breast tissue development, IVF does not have negative bearing on a woman’s lactation capabilities.


Myth #2: Quality of breast milk is reduced due to the IVF’s fertility drugs.
Fact: Fertility drugs are administered during IVF treatments, most of the time during the initial stages of the pregnancy. Theyare typically administered before implantation and when the baby is born and milk production should commence, these drugs have already left the body long ago. Implants and medications used for fertility drugs will not affect altering the composition or the nutritional quality of breast milk. Regardless of how a woman gives birth, breast milk is safe and rich in nutrients.

Myth #3: IVF results in a low milk supply.
Fact: This is a more nuanced area. IVF itself does not directly reduce milk supply. However, certain conditions that are more common among women undergoing IVF may influence lactation.

For instance:
• PCOS women will have slowed or decreased milk production due to hormonal imbalances.
• An older maternal age, which is more common in IVF pregnancies, may contribute to the risk of reduced lactation.
• IVF is sometimes associated with a higher rate of cesarean delivery. Cesarean section could result in some delay due to pain in skin-to-skin contact, touch, and early stimulus which is vital for breastfeeding.
Admittedly, those are real barriers to overcome, but it's not a brick wall. With excellent early postpartum breastfeeding support and guidance, the vast majority of mothers can get a fantastic supply of milk and maintain it.

Myth #4: A mother cannot breastfeed twins or babies who are multiples via IVF.
Fact: It is entirely possible to breastfeed twins and triplets. The human physiology is impressive in its capacity to cope with demand. With regular feeding, correct positioning, and good nutrition, many multiple mothers continue on to breastfeed successfully. With the right support in such situations, lactation support is even more crucial.

What's the actual connection between IVF and breastfeeding?
From a biological standpoint, there is no adverse connection between IVF and breastfeeding. Emotionally, however, there tends to be a richer connection. The overwhelming majority of mothers of multiples conceived via IVF report breastfeeding them as the most rewarding moment after a long and arduous journey. Breastfeeding is described uniquely as both an affirmative and a truly healing experience.

It is also important to note that these mothers, because of their heightened sensitivity and preparedness, breastfeed with greater intentionality — and feel no hesitation in requesting help when needed, which is not a shortcoming.

If you’re an IVF mother wondering whether you can breastfeed — the answer is a resounding yes. The majority of mothers who have IVF can breastfeed and actually do breastfeed. Although there are challenges, they are not necessarily due to an IVF delivery and are nearly always correctable with proper support.

(Dr Rohitha, Consultant- Fertility Specialist, Motherhood Fertility & IVF, Kothanur, Bangalore)