Cryotherapy involves exposing the body to extremely cold temperatures for short periods as a therapeutic treatment used for muscle recovery, pain reduction, and to lessen inflammation. For breastfeeding individuals, the primary concern is whether this intense cold exposure affects milk safety or production. Since large-scale studies on lactating individuals are scarce, professional consensus focuses on the physiological mechanisms involved.
Understanding Cryotherapy Procedures
Cryotherapy is categorized into two main types based on the area treated. Whole-Body Cryotherapy (WBC) is administered in a specialized chamber or cryosauna, exposing the individual to ultra-low temperatures (often -110°C to -140°C) for two to four minutes. During WBC, the head is typically exposed to room air while the body is enveloped in nitrogen-cooled air. Localized Cryotherapy targets specific areas like a knee or shoulder using a handheld device, applying cold air (usually -25°C to -40°C) for five to ten minutes. Both procedures are non-invasive, meaning the cold application remains on the skin surface.
Assessing the Risk to Breast Milk Supply and Composition
The non-invasive nature of cryotherapy means it does not affect breast milk composition. Since the treatment uses extreme cold and involves no drugs, chemicals, or systemic toxins, foreign agents cannot pass into the breast milk. Liquid nitrogen, the primary component used, is a non-toxic gas not absorbed into the bloodstream. Therefore, the breast milk remains safe and nutritious for the infant immediately following a session.
The actual risk lies in the potential disruption of milk supply, which is a hormonal issue. Exposing the body to extreme cold, especially in a Whole-Body Cryotherapy chamber, triggers the sympathetic nervous system’s “fight or flight” response. This intense physical stress causes a rapid surge of stress hormones, specifically cortisol and adrenaline. Elevated levels of these hormones temporarily inhibit the release of oxytocin, which is responsible for the milk let-down reflex. If the let-down reflex is delayed or blocked, the breast cannot be emptied effectively, signaling the body to slow down overall milk production.
Medical and Lactation Consultant Perspectives
Given the hormonal impact, lactation specialists view the two types of cryotherapy differently. Localized cryotherapy is considered lower risk because it targets a small area and avoids the severe, systemic stress response of Whole-Body Cryotherapy (WBC). The minimal stress from localized treatment is less likely to inhibit the oxytocin release needed for let-down. Conversely, professionals advise caution regarding WBC due to the intense, full-body stress response it induces and the potential for temporary suppression of the let-down reflex. Since no chemical agents are involved, the milk remains safe, and “pump and dump” is unnecessary.
For those who choose to proceed, timing the session is a practical precaution. It is advisable to nurse the baby or fully empty the breasts with a pump immediately before the session. This minimizes the potential impact of a temporary hormonal dip on milk removal and ensures the baby receives a full feeding. It is also important to consider existing contraindications for cryotherapy, such as severe hypertension, Raynaud’s phenomenon, or severe anemia, as these health risks may be amplified postpartum.