The beautifully complex relationship between the mother and fetus ensures that the babe has everything that it needs, but often at the expense of the mother. The placenta is going to grab whatever it can, even if the mother’s levels are low. It’s an amazing system but can leave mom feeling really depleted. The biggest grabs that can have a profound effect on the mom post-partum are: iron, thyroid hormones (and iodine, which is involved in the synthesis of thyroid hormones) and DHA (docosahexaenoic acid, an omega-3 fatty acid). Low levels of any of these can exacerbate common post-partum concerns, including low energy, brain fog, low mood, anxiety, increased hair loss, and low milk supply, to name a few. Thyroid hormone levels and iron stores are routinely checked in pregnancy, but they can change quickly so it’s important to keep tabs on them. DHA can be obtained to some degree via diet however you would be surprised by how much a growing babe (and mom) needs so it’s likely easier to supplement. Any questions, please send them my way – supporting mom and babe in this season of life is my jam.❤️
Pregnancy and Motherhood – Dr. Sarah Harbottle, ND
