The neuroendocrine basis of lactation-induced suppression of GnRH: Role of kisspeptin and leptin

► Integration of the increased orexigenic neuropeptide systems and decreased anorexigenic systems provide the sustained hyperphagic drive of lactation. ► The orexigenic systems activated during lactation provide increased inhibitory tone on GnRH cell bodies. ► Hypoleptinemia is not a prerequisite for the suppression of Kisspeptin or GnRH/LH during lactation. ► The suppression of Kisspeptin during lactation is likely key to the suppression of GnRH/LH.