I have a 9 month old who i'm breastfeeding I have started back to the gym and would like to get involved with a personal trainer. Wanted to know would a strenuous workout effect my milk production?
no, in fact for me, it increased my milk. After my aerobic class, my breast would be firmer so I would go home and nurse/pump and expressed more milk than ever.
Good luck and welcome to the best "Career" of your life.
Since you're probably breastfeeding a little less now that he's eating regular foods in addition to breastmilk, I wouldn't think there'd be any need for concern. I have read that it's better to pump before workouts, as opposed to breadtfeeding right after a workout. Plus, I imagine it'd be more comfortable for you to be "empty!"
Enjoy your workouts!
M.
Going to the gym shouldn't affect your milk supply at all. I have 4 kids and I worked out even while breastfeeding each one (and I breastfed each of them for over a year). Wear a supportive bra, drink plenty of fluids, and keep a good calorie intake (no low calorie diets or anything) but other than that you should be fine.
Exercise shouldn't effect the quantity of milk at all, but some of my babies have not liked the taste of the lactic acid that builds up during exercise. I would recommend nursing just before exercising so you can get in a good workout and then have time for some of the lactic acid to disapate before nursing again.
I exercised a lot while I breast-fed with no trouble. I have heard that the lactic acid your body after vigorous exercise can alter the taste of breast milk so if your child acts differently about breast-feeding after you exercise you may want to stick with a moderate routine but there are so many benefits to exercise, you should try to get active, especially when you feel motivated.
Maybe I'm just lucky, but exercising didn't seem to affect my milk supply at all. I was walking (brisk, 4-5 miles) within a week of giving birth and started running again after a few months, and I haven't had any problem. Most mornings I run several miles before my daughter gets up, and I nurse her as soon as I get home, and there's no problem. I'd just start slowly (for your sake as well as for the sake of your milk supply) and ease up if you're having any problems. But at nine months, your milk supply is probably pretty well-established, and your child is probably eating other food anyway, which would make up for any problems you might have. As long as your child is thriving and happy, I say go for it-- it's good for you and it will make you feel better, too. Good luck!
While I was breastfeeding my daughter I worked out pretty strenuously without a problem. I've read that it's fine, but your milk may get a little sour tasting. not sure if it helps if you space out the exercise and nursing. good luck!
