When I first started breastfeeding, I was told that one of the benefits would be an extended absence of my period. Who wouldn’t celebrate saying goodbye to Aunt Flo for a while? Dealing with PMS, cramps, and bathroom visits during those early days of parenting was far from appealing. It seemed like nature was on my side.
However, I was taken aback when my first postpartum period arrived just before my baby turned 5 months old, despite exclusively breastfeeding around the clock. Seriously, Mother Nature, why?
After working closely with countless breastfeeding moms as a lactation consultant and volunteer counselor, I’ve discovered that the notion that exclusive breastfeeding keeps your period at bay is more myth than reality. While it holds true for many women, it’s not universal (just like the weight loss myth during breastfeeding—some shed pounds quickly, while others struggle). Here’s the lowdown on what you need to know about menstruation while breastfeeding (and my sincere hope is that you enjoy a longer reprieve than I did!).
It Varies Greatly
For most mothers who are exclusively breastfeeding (no formula or solids), the return of their period is unlikely. Frequent nursing, including nighttime feeds, typically keeps menstruation at bay. However, exceptions do exist—my story being one of them.
Some Moms Experience Early Returns
Take my friend Lisa, for instance; she got her period just eight weeks postpartum while exclusively breastfeeding. Initially, she assumed it was postpartum bleeding, but it turned out to be the real deal. This happened again with her second child. Some women just have different experiences!
Others May Not See Their Period at All
Then there’s my friend Rachel, who breastfeeds her children well into toddlerhood without ever getting her period back. While this is an extreme case, many women who continue breastfeeding beyond a year find their periods don’t return until their little ones are 12 to 18 months old. If you’re eager to conceive, you might need to reduce nursing frequency, since many women won’t ovulate until their period returns.
Your First Postpartum Period Might Be Odd
When your period does return, it might present itself in unexpected ways. Some women experience spotting when their baby is down to about three feeds a day. Others find their first periods to be heavier and more painful than before, while some report lighter flows that leave them questioning if it’s even a real period (it is, especially concerning fertility). Increased clotting can also occur, even if it wasn’t a feature of your pre-pregnancy cycles. Always trust your instincts—if something feels off, don’t hesitate to consult your doctor.
Cycles Can Take Time to Regulate
Once menstruation resumes, it may take a few months for your cycles to stabilize. After my first postpartum period, I didn’t see another for six weeks (which, honestly, was a small consolation). Spotting between periods is also common. If you’re concerned, checking in with your healthcare provider is wise, but irregularities are typically normal as your body readjusts.
Milk Supply May Dip During Your Period
As your period approaches, the increase in progesterone can lead to a temporary dip in milk supply. Some moms might not notice it, while others find their babies are less than pleased! Remember, this is usually a short-lived issue, and your milk supply should bounce back a day or two after your period starts.
You Can Get Pregnant Right After Your Period Returns
It’s important not to rely on breastfeeding as a sole form of birth control. While most mothers find it less likely to conceive while exclusively breastfeeding, once your period returns, you regain fertility. If you want to avoid another pregnancy, consider taking protective measures.
You Can Even Conceive Before Your First Postpartum Period
Here’s a lesser-known fact: you can ovulate before your first postpartum period, which means pregnancy could happen even if Aunt Flo hasn’t shown up yet. This is especially true if you’re past the exclusive breastfeeding stage and waiting for your first period.
Why is there such a wide range of experiences with menstruation during breastfeeding? Every woman’s body reacts differently to the hormonal changes induced by breastfeeding. For most, these hormonal shifts suppress menstruation, but for others, they don’t have the same effect. This variability can also depend on your baby’s feeding habits.
If you’re one of the fortunate ones who can go months without a period while breastfeeding, enjoy every moment. For those who find themselves in the not-so-lucky category, I empathize with you (and feel your discomfort!). If you’re in need of some company during PMS, why not invite me over? We can lounge in sweatpants and nursing bras, indulging in Ben & Jerry’s together—we’ve earned it.
For more insights into pregnancy and the journey of parenthood, check out this resource. And if you’re looking into home insemination options, consider this at-home insemination kit for a deeper dive into the topic. Plus, this intracervical insemination syringe kit might be beneficial as you explore your options.
In summary, the return of your period while breastfeeding can be unpredictable and varies significantly from woman to woman. While many enjoy a lengthy hiatus from menstruation, others may find their periods returning sooner than expected. Understanding these variations can help you navigate your own experience with breastfeeding and menstruation.
Keyphrase: Periods While Breastfeeding
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