By: Mia Thompson
Updated: Feb. 3, 2020
Originally Published: Aug. 24, 2017
The common belief surrounding breastfeeding is that it serves as a natural way to delay the return of your menstrual cycle. Many women, including myself, were thrilled at the thought of saying goodbye to their monthly visitor, especially during those early days of parenting. After all, who wants to juggle PMS, cramps, and all those bathroom trips while caring for an infant? I thought nature had granted me a reprieve.
However, I was taken aback when I got my first postpartum period just shy of five months after giving birth, despite my baby being exclusively breastfed around the clock. What a letdown! After working with numerous breastfeeding mothers as a lactation consultant and support counselor, I’ve learned that the idea that exclusive breastfeeding completely prevents menstruation can be misleading. This holds true for many, but certainly not for all. The experience can vary greatly from one woman to another, much like the weight loss some women may experience while breastfeeding—some lose it quickly, while others find it stubbornly lingers.
Here’s a comprehensive guide to understanding your period while breastfeeding, with the hope that your experience is more favorable than mine—may that unwelcome visitor stay away as long as possible!
The Variability of Menstrual Return
For most mothers who breastfeed exclusively, the chances of getting a period are slim. If you are nursing on demand, including during the night, it’s quite unlikely that menstruation will resume anytime soon. However, there are certainly exceptions—like me! Some mothers may find themselves dealing with menstruation much sooner than expected.
Take my friend Sarah, for instance; she got her period just eight weeks postpartum, despite exclusively breastfeeding. Initially, she thought it was a continuation of postpartum bleeding, but soon realized it was her period. Shockingly, she experienced the same scenario with her second child. On the other hand, I know mothers who nurse their toddlers and don’t get a period at all while breastfeeding. This is not uncommon; many women find their cycles don’t return until their babies reach 12 to 18 months. If you’re hoping to conceive again, however, reducing nursing sessions may be necessary, as many women won’t be fertile until their periods return.
The Nature of Your First Period
When menstruation does return, it may not resemble your pre-pregnancy cycles. Initially, you might experience spotting, particularly as your baby reduces nursing to about three times a day. Some women report heavier and crampier periods, while others find their first menstrual bleeding exceptionally light. It’s also normal to notice more clotting than before. However, if anything feels off or concerning, it’s wise to consult your doctor.
Irregular Cycles and Milk Supply
Once menstruation resumes, it can take a few months for your cycles to stabilize. Personally, I went six weeks without another period after my first one. Spotting between periods is also reported by some women, but it’s typically normal as your hormones adjust.
During your period, a decrease in milk supply is common due to a surge in progesterone. Some mothers might not notice much difference, while others find their little ones become quite upset. If this happens, remember it’s usually temporary and your milk supply should return to normal shortly after your period starts.
Pregnancy Possibilities
Once your period returns, you are fertile again, which is why I never advise relying solely on breastfeeding as a method of contraception—many women have found themselves pregnant this way. It’s also possible to conceive before your first postpartum period, as ovulation can occur without the arrival of menstruation. This is particularly true for mothers with older babies who have transitioned out of exclusive breastfeeding.
The variation in menstrual experiences during breastfeeding can be attributed to the unique hormonal responses each woman has to breastfeeding. While the hormone release from nursing suppresses menstrual hormones for many, this isn’t the case for everyone. The frequency and duration of nursing also play a significant role.
If you’re one of the fortunate mothers who doesn’t experience menstruation for an extended period while breastfeeding, enjoy it! And for those who do, just know you’re not alone. If you’re in need of some comfort during PMS, feel free to swing by for some ice cream and a good chat in our sweatpants.
For more information about home insemination, check out this excellent resource on infertility. You can also explore helpful products like fertility boosters for men to support your journey. Don’t forget to read our privacy policy for more details on how we handle your information: Privacy Policy.
Summary
Navigating your menstrual cycle while breastfeeding can be a unique journey, with experiences varying widely among women. While many may not see their period return until their baby is older, others may find it comes back sooner than expected. Hormonal fluctuations can affect both your cycles and milk supply, so it’s essential to stay informed and seek guidance when needed.