Why new mothers feel rushed to get back “in shape” .
The recent article in The Guardian describes how many new mums feel intense pressure to “get their body back” after childbirth and how the marketing of weight‑loss injections such as the GLP‑1 drugs is becoming a worry. For a first baby especially, the sight of rapid weight loss in others (or expectation of it) can make you feel you should follow. But this is a vulnerable time: your hormones, your body, your sleep, your baby’s needs all are changing by the day. As a mother and IBCLC/ paediatric nurse, I see how these messages can undermine confidence and even breastfeeding. I am hearing of women stopping breastfeeding so they can lose weight and take GLP-1 medication.
What are GLP‑1 drugs and why they matter here
GLP‑1 stands for glucagon‑like peptide‑1 receptor agonists. They include drugs like Semaglutide (Wegovy/Ozempic) and Tirzepatide (Mounjaro). The Breastfeeding Network in the UK states that GLP‑1 medicines should not be taken while breastfeeding because there is not enough safety data to know whether they can cause harm to the baby. A systematic review found no human data on safety of GLP‑1 agonists during lactation, and animal studies show possible transfer into milk and potential effects on appetite and growth of the baby.
Breastfeeding and your weight journey: a different context
I know this feeling too.
With every one of my five children, there came a point, usually around six months, when I looked in the mirror and thought, “When will I feel like myself again?”
You can adore your baby and still want to reclaim your body. That’s not selfish, it’s human. I share this because I want you to know you’re not alone, and there’s a gentler way through.
That’s why I believe discussions about weight loss, breastfeeding, and recovery must always start with compassion, not criticism.
Breastfeeding isn’t just about feeding your baby. It’s a time of increased nutritional needs, hormonal fluctuations, and huge emotional sensitivity. If you’re facing messages that you should be thinner, or that weight‑loss injections are the fast route — pause. Your milk supply is really helped by nutrition, rest, and support. Rapid weight loss may compromise milk supply or quality, and could impact your energy and recovery.
The “toxins in breastmilk” concern what we know (and don’t)
Rapid weight loss during breastfeeding — particularly for first‑time mums — might shift more toxins into breastmilk. When fat stores are broken down quickly, persistent organic pollutants stored in fat can be mobilised and potentially enter milk. While evidence is limited, it’s a reminder to be gentle with weight‑loss during lactation. We don’t yet have strong human evidence that this is a major risk with moderate postpartum weight loss. It is however something to be mindful of in the early months.
breastfeeding and your body image : constant change.
Give yourself space: your body has done an incredible job. Focus on nourishment and recovery, not just numbers on a scale. Be cautious about any weight‑loss medication if you are still breastfeeding, and talk about pressures you feel. Try to shift the language from ‘losing weight’ to ‘gaining strength and recovery.‘ Work with an IBCLC or health professional who understands breastfeeding and can support both your physical and mental wellbeing.
Key warnings about GLP‑1 drugs in breastfeeding
GLP‑1 agonists are not currently recommended for use during breastfeeding. There’s a lack of data, and animal studies suggest possible transfer to milk. Even if milk supply appears unaffected, appetite suppression may reduce calorie intake too much, which can affect both supply and maternal health.
What to do if you’re considering weight‑loss while breastfeeding
Let your healthcare team know you’re breastfeeding. Ask for plans that preserve milk supply, nutrition, and mental health. If offered a GLP‑1 drug, ask for evidence and alternatives. Your baby’s health, your milk supply, and your recovery matter — sometimes the ‘fast fix’ isn’t the best fix.
If you want one‑to‑one support
Every mother’s breastfeeding and recovery journey is unique. In my one‑to‑one consults, I help you review your feeding situation, discuss weight and body image goals safely, navigate medical or social pressures, and protect your supply and wellbeing. If you’d like to talk through your individual situation, book a one‑to‑one session with me — let’s focus on what you and your baby need, not what society expects.
The longing to reconnect with yourself after months of being “the milk source” is real and very human. That’s why I approach this topic with empathy, not judgment.
