What happens when you get your period while breastfeeding?

Understanding the Intersection of Menstruation and Breastfeeding
For many new parents, the return of menstruation while breastfeeding can be a perplexing experience. The relationship between breastfeeding and menstrual cycles is influenced by various factors, including hormonal changes and the individual’s breastfeeding practices.
Delayed Return of Menstruation
After giving birth, many breastfeeding individuals find that their periods do not return immediately. This delay is largely due to the hormone prolactin, which is essential for milk production and also suppresses ovulation. As long as breastfeeding continues, especially if it includes frequent feedings both day and night, many may remain period-free for several months, or even longer. In fact, it is common for those who are fully breastfeeding to experience a hiatus from menstruation lasting anywhere from three to six months or more.
What Happens When Your Period Returns?
When menstruation does return, it can bring about noticeable changes in breastfeeding dynamics. One of the most immediate effects may be a change in the taste of breast milk, which can occur due to hormonal fluctuations. This alteration in flavor might lead some babies to be less interested in latching on during this time. Additionally, some parents report a temporary dip in milk supply around the time of their period, which can be concerning for those who rely on breastfeeding as their primary source of nutrition for their infants.
Individual Variability
It’s important to note that the experience of getting your period while breastfeeding can vary widely among individuals. Factors such as the frequency of breastfeeding, the introduction of solid foods, and overall health can influence when menstruation resumes and how it affects milk supply. Some may find that their periods return sooner if they begin to wean their baby or introduce formula.
Navigating the Changes
For many, the return of menstruation while breastfeeding is a natural part of the postpartum journey. While it can come with challenges, such as changes in milk supply or baby’s feeding preferences, understanding these dynamics can help parents navigate this transition more smoothly. Open communication with healthcare providers can also provide reassurance and guidance tailored to individual circumstances.
In summary, while breastfeeding often delays the return of menstruation, when it does occur, it can lead to changes in both milk supply and the breastfeeding experience. Each parent’s journey is unique, and being informed can empower them to adapt to these changes effectively.

Will my breast milk supply come back after my period?

For others, breast milk production can drop during ovulation (mid-cycle), until the first day or two of the next menstrual period. While this hormonal supply dip can be stressful, keep in mind that your supply will increase again once your hormones return to their normal levels.

Is it possible to get pregnant while breastfeeding?

“You can’t get pregnant if you’re breastfeeding.” Maybe you’ve heard this myth before…and we should warn you, it’s just that—a myth! The truth is you can get pregnant while you’re breastfeeding, even if your menstrual cycle hasn’t returned to normal.

When does milk supply decrease?

Breast milk supply is maintained by frequent nursing. Some moms experience a sudden drop in supply when they return to work or if they’re away from their baby for other reasons. Not pumping often enough. If your pumping frequency doesn’t match your little one’s demand, you might see your supply dropping.

Does milk supply drop when on your period?

Some moms may deal with a drop in milk supply right before our period arrives, and for the first day or two of our periods. While this drop is normal and temporary, it can be stressful to deal with — for both you and your baby.

When do breastfeeding moms get their period back?

If you are exclusively breastfeeding, you may still see the return of a monthly bleed beginning around 4 months, especially if your little one starts sleeping longer stretches at night at an early age. But more commonly, women get their periods back anywhere between 8 – 18 months postpartum.

Does period mean no more breast milk?

Most mothers do not notice any impact of menstruation on their milk production. Continue to nurse your baby on demand. You may find she nurses more frequently or longer for a couple of days after you ovulate, but that’s okay.

Can you be around a newborn on your period?

Since mom herself will be back on her period soon, there’s no valid, medically-proven reason that someone’s menstrual cycle would cause any harm to a newborn.

Can a breastfeeding mother miss her period without being pregnant?

Breastfeeding. Breastfeeding can suppress your period, depending on how frequently you are nursing. You may get a period while breastfeeding, and then not have another one for several months or more, particularly if your baby is nursing exclusively.

Is it harder to get pregnant while breastfeeding?

While exclusive breastfeeding can temporarily delay your fertility postpartum, making it more difficult to conceive while nursing, it’s not impossible. With that in mind, the short answer is yes, you can get pregnant while breastfeeding.

Why did I get my period if I’m breastfeeding?

If you have lower levels of progesterone, you’re likely to get your periods back earlier than people with higher levels (Ingram et al 2004). So it’s possible that you could be breastfeeding around the clock, but still become fertile and start your periods again.