Parenthood is one of the loveliest experiences life has to offer. For some women who conceive through IVF (In Vitro Fertilization), that first cuddle with their newborn is a dream realized after months or even years of struggle. However, after the baby arrives, a new cycle of doubts often begins—especially surrounding Breastfeeding.
Many IVF mothers worry whether their treatment will affect their ability to breastfeed. Myths such as “IVF mothers don’t produce enough milk” or “hormone medications used during IVF stop breastfeeding” create unnecessary fear and guilt.
At Ayuh Fertility Centre, Ahmedabad, we want to clear these misconceptions. The truth is: Breastfeeding after IVF is not very different from breastfeeding after natural conception. With proper guidance and support, most IVF mothers successfully breastfeed. Let’s explore the myths and facts.
Why Breastfeeding Matters
Before diving into IVF-related myths, let’s remember why Breastfeeding is so valuable:
- Provides complete nourishment to the baby during the first six months
- Boosts immunity and helps prevent infections and allergies
- Builds a deep emotional connection between mother and baby
- Protects the mother’s health by lowering risks of some cancers
- Supports healthy postpartum weight loss
Clearly, whether through IVF or natural conception, every mother hopes to breastfeed her baby.
Common IVF & Breastfeeding Myths
Myth 1: IVF mothers cannot breastfeed effectively
Fact: Not true. Breast milk production depends mainly on two natural hormones—prolactin (which produces milk) and oxytocin (which helps in let-down). These hormones are activated after delivery regardless of whether pregnancy happened naturally or through IVF. Many IVF mothers successfully breastfeed their babies just like any other mom. The key is early initiation, skin-to-skin contact, and frequent feeding.
Myth 2: IVF hormone medications suppress milk supply
Fact: This is a common misconception. The fertility medications used in IVF are taken before pregnancy, to support egg development and implantation. By the time a woman gives birth, these drugs are no longer present in her system. They do not interfere with lactation or milk quality. What actually matters is postpartum care, proper latching, and consistent breastfeeding.
Myth 3: IVF babies need formula more often
Fact: IVF babies are as healthy and normal as naturally conceived babies. They do not automatically need formula. Breast milk alone is considered the best source of nutrition for the first 6 months unless there are specific medical concerns, such as premature birth or low birth weight. Formula should only be introduced if a doctor or lactation consultant recommends it, not because of IVF.
Myth 4: C-section after IVF prevents breastfeeding
Fact: IVF pregnancies may have a slightly higher chance of C-sections, but this does not stop a mother from breastfeeding. Sometimes, C-section mothers may experience a short delay in milk “coming in,” but this can be overcome with early breastfeeding attempts, gentle positioning, and professional support. Using positions like the football hold or lying on the side can help new moms recover and nurse comfortably after surgery.
Myth 5: IVF mothers don’t produce enough milk
Fact: Milk supply is primarily driven by demand and supply—the more frequently the baby nurses, the more milk the mother produces. IVF history has no link to milk quantity. Staying hydrated, eating nutritious meals, and practicing stress management are crucial. If challenges occur, lactation consultants can suggest techniques like pumping, breast compressions, or herbal supplements to support milk flow.
Challenges IVF Mothers Might Face in Breastfeeding
Although IVF does not directly hinder breastfeeding, certain factors can influence the journey:
- Maternal Age: IVF mothers are often 35+, and advanced age may slightly reduce milk supply.
- Multiple Births: IVF increases chances of twins or triplets, which can be more demanding.
- C-sections: Recovery may make positioning difficult in the beginning.
- Emotional Stress: The IVF journey itself is stressful, and anxiety post-birth can affect milk let-down.
At Ayuh Fertility Centre, we guide and support mothers through these challenges with expert counseling.
Tips for Successful Breastfeeding After IVF
- Start early: Place your baby to the breast within the first hour of birth.
- Skin-to-skin contact: Encourages bonding and stimulates milk production.
- Feed regularly: Every 2–3 hours in the initial days to establish supply.
- Stay nourished and hydrated: Supports milk flow and energy.
- Seek professional help: Lactation consultants can guide positioning and latching.
- Avoid comparison: Every mother’s experience is unique.
- Relax: Stress can delay milk let-down—practice deep breathing or light relaxation.
Real Story from Ayuh Fertility Centre
One of our patients, Meera (name changed), delivered her first baby through IVF at age 36. She was worried about breastfeeding because friends had told her IVF mothers cannot lactate.
After her C-section, she faced initial difficulties, but with support from our team and a lactation consultant, she learned proper positioning and gained confidence. Within a week, she was exclusively breastfeeding.
Her words still inspire us:
“I wish I hadn’t listened to the myths. IVF gave me my baby, and breastfeeding gave me the joy of bonding with him.”
How Ayuh Fertility Centre Supports Mothers
At Ayuh Fertility Centre, Ahmedabad, our care doesn’t end after a positive pregnancy test. We believe in supporting mothers throughout pregnancy, delivery, and beyond. For breastfeeding, we provide:
- Counseling sessions before and after birth
- Guidance from lactation experts
- Support for C-section mothers on safe feeding positions
- Emotional support for mothers who feel stressed or worried
We don’t just help women become mothers—we stand by them as they grow into confident pare
🙋 FAQs on IVF & Breastfeeding
1. Can IVF treatment affect a mother’s ability to breastfeed?
This is one of the most common worries among women who conceive through IVF. The good news is that IVF treatment itself does not affect your ability to breastfeed. Breast milk production is controlled by natural hormones like prolactin and oxytocin, which are released after delivery, not during IVF stimulation. The injections or medicines taken during IVF are given before pregnancy, and by the time the baby is born, they have no effect on breast milk. Most mothers who conceive through IVF produce milk just like women who conceive naturally. Challenges such as delayed milk production or latching difficulties are not specific to IVF—they can happen to any new mother. At Ayuh Fertility Centre, we reassure patients that breastfeeding after IVF is not only possible but also beneficial for both mother and child. With guidance, almost every IVF mother can breastfeed successfully.
2. Do IVF medicines or hormones remain in breast milk after delivery?
No, IVF medicines and hormone injections do not remain in the body at the time of delivery, so they do not enter breast milk. All fertility medications used during IVF are given before pregnancy or in the very early stages to support implantation. Once pregnancy progresses, these medicines are either stopped or reduced, and by the time the baby is born, they are long cleared from the mother’s system. Breast milk is pure, natural, and safe for the baby, whether the pregnancy happened naturally or through IVF. Mothers often feel guilty or scared because of misinformation they hear from friends or social media, but there is no scientific evidence to show that IVF affects the quality of breast milk. At Ayuh Fertility Centre, our doctors explain this to new mothers, so they feel confident that breastfeeding is safe and strongly recommended even after an IVF journey.
3. Why do some IVF mothers face more breastfeeding challenges?
It’s important to understand that IVF itself is not the reason some women struggle with breastfeeding. However, IVF mothers are often older (above 35 years) or may have had complicated pregnancies, higher rates of C-sections, or multiple births (twins/triplets). These factors can make breastfeeding slightly harder in the beginning. For example, a C-section delivery may delay the start of milk, and recovery pain may make positioning difficult. Similarly, premature babies born through IVF may initially need more support with feeding. Stress and emotional exhaustion from years of infertility can also sometimes affect milk let-down. But these are challenges that can be overcome with the right guidance, patience, and support. At Ayuh Fertility Centre, we connect new mothers with lactation consultants and provide emotional counseling, ensuring that IVF mothers feel empowered to breastfeed just like any other mother.
4. Do IVF babies need formula milk instead of breast milk?
There is a common myth that IVF babies are weaker and require formula milk, but this is not true. IVF babies are as healthy as naturally conceived babies, provided the pregnancy was normal and the delivery was safe. Unless the baby is premature, has low birth weight, or has a medical condition where the doctor recommends supplementation, breast milk is the only food your baby needs in the first six months. Formula should be introduced only if medically required or if the mother cannot breastfeed despite all efforts. At Ayuh Fertility Centre, we encourage exclusive breastfeeding for all mothers, including IVF mothers. Our team works closely with new parents to make breastfeeding successful, and only in rare cases where it is medically necessary do we suggest alternatives. So, IVF babies do not “need” formula by default—like all babies, they thrive best on mother’s milk.
5. What tips can help IVF mothers succeed in breastfeeding?
The first and most important tip is to start breastfeeding as soon as possible after delivery—ideally within the first hour. Early skin-to-skin contact with your baby triggers natural hormones that help milk flow. Second, don’t wait for milk to “come in”—keep offering the breast frequently, as this helps establish supply. Third, stay hydrated and eat a healthy diet because your body needs extra nutrition to produce milk. Fourth, seek help from a lactation consultant if you face difficulties with latching or positioning, especially after a C-section. Finally, remember to stay calm. Stress and anxiety, which are common after IVF, can affect milk let-down. Try deep breathing, music, or family support to relax. At Ayuh Fertility Centre, we guide mothers step by step through this process. Our message is clear: IVF does not stop breastfeeding, and with patience and support, you can enjoy the natural bond of nursing your baby with confidence.
Final Thoughts
IVF brings the gift of parenthood, and breastfeeding strengthens that bond even more. The myths around IVF and breastfeeding are just that—myths. With the right care, guidance, and mindset, IVF mothers can nourish their babies naturally and enjoy the beautiful experience of breastfeeding.
At Ayuh Fertility Centre, Ahmedabad, we not only help couples achieve pregnancy but also support them in every step of parenthood, including breastfeeding guidance.
