Why am I having my period while breastfeeding?

Understanding Menstruation While Breastfeeding
For many new parents, the return of menstruation during breastfeeding can be a perplexing experience. While it is commonly believed that breastfeeding delays the onset of periods, the reality is more nuanced. Several factors influence when and why you might start menstruating again, even while nursing.
The Role of Hormones
Breastfeeding significantly impacts hormonal levels in the body. When you breastfeed, your body produces higher levels of the hormone prolactin, which is responsible for milk production. Elevated prolactin levels can suppress ovulation, leading to a condition known as lactational amenorrhea. This natural delay in menstruation is particularly pronounced in those who exclusively breastfeed, as frequent nursing sessions can inhibit the hormonal signals necessary for ovulation and menstruation to resume.
However, this is not a universal experience. Individual hormonal and physiological differences play a crucial role. Some individuals may experience a return of their menstrual cycle as early as six weeks postpartum, while others may not see their periods return for several months or even longer. Factors such as the frequency of breastfeeding, the introduction of solid foods, and overall health can all influence this timeline.
Why You Might Get Your Period Back
If you find yourself menstruating while still breastfeeding, it could be due to several reasons:
1. Reduced Frequency of Nursing: As your baby grows and begins to consume solid foods, the frequency of breastfeeding may decrease. This reduction can lead to lower prolactin levels, allowing ovulation to resume and your period to return.
2. Hormonal Changes: Each person’s body reacts differently to the hormonal shifts that occur postpartum. Some may experience a non-ovulatory period, where they have menstrual-like bleeding without actual ovulation, which can happen before the regular cycle resumes.
3. Combination Feeding: If you are supplementing breastfeeding with formula or have started introducing solid foods, this can also affect your hormonal balance and lead to the return of your menstrual cycle.
4. Individual Variability: Ultimately, every individual’s body is unique. Factors such as stress, health conditions, and even genetics can influence when menstruation returns.
Impact on Milk Supply
A common concern among breastfeeding parents is whether the return of menstruation will affect milk supply. Generally, the onset of your period does not significantly impact milk production. However, some individuals may notice temporary changes in milk supply or taste during their menstrual cycle due to hormonal fluctuations. It’s important to stay hydrated and maintain a healthy diet to support both your milk supply and overall well-being during this time.
Conclusion
In summary, experiencing your period while breastfeeding is a normal occurrence influenced by a variety of factors, including hormonal changes, breastfeeding frequency, and individual health. While it may come as a surprise, understanding the underlying mechanisms can help alleviate concerns and allow you to navigate this phase of motherhood with greater confidence. If you have specific concerns about your menstrual cycle or breastfeeding, consulting with a healthcare provider can provide personalized guidance and support.

Is it normal to bleed while breastfeeding?

Cracked, sore, scabbed, bleeding, and painful nipples are common when breastfeeding, but they’re not necessarily “normal.” That simply means there are ways to help reduce the chance of experiencing these symptoms, mainly ensuring your baby has a good latch when breastfeeding.

Does bleeding affect milk supply?

Sometimes, mothers have medical issues that can cause low milk supply including: Severe postpartum bleeding or hemorrhage (more than 1,000 ml). You can ask your healthcare provider about blood loss during labor and delivery.

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.

How do I know if it’s my period or postpartum bleeding?

Lochia and menstrual blood are similar in that the bleeding subsides before going away. The biggest difference between the two types of discharge is that lochia lasts much longer. A typical period lasts about one week. Lochia lasts about six weeks in most people.

What are the signs of pregnancy while breastfeeding?

In the early stage or first trimester of your pregnancy, you may have nipple tenderness and breast soreness. You may have a decreased food and water intake due to morning sickness and feel tired. Such physical discomfort may increase while breastfeeding.

What is it called when a newborn has a period?

Newborn Vaginal Bleeding.
This is normal and called false menses. The cause is the sudden drop-off in the mother’s estrogen (a hormone) after birth. The blood-tinged or pink discharge should not last more than 3 or 4 days.

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.

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.

Does your milk supply drop when you get your period?

It’s essential to remember that temporary drops in breast milk supply during menstruation are normal for many mothers. However, if you find that your milk supply remains consistently low even after your period has ended, or if your baby shows signs of inadequate milk intake, it’s crucial to seek professional support.

Is it normal to have a period while breastfeeding?

After having a baby, your periods will return at your body’s own pace. If you are breastfeeding your baby, your periods may not return for months or even years after childbirth. If your baby is being fed using formula, you may find your periods return shortly after childbirth.