Can stopping breastfeeding mess with your period?

The Impact of Stopping Breastfeeding on Menstruation
For many new parents, the relationship between breastfeeding and menstruation can be a source of confusion and concern. As mothers navigate the postpartum period, they often wonder how stopping breastfeeding might affect their menstrual cycles. The interplay between breastfeeding and menstruation is primarily governed by hormonal changes in the body, particularly the hormone prolactin.
Hormonal Influence of Breastfeeding
When a mother breastfeeds, her body produces higher levels of prolactin, a hormone that plays a crucial role in milk production. Elevated prolactin levels can suppress ovulation, which in turn delays the return of menstruation. This natural phenomenon is often referred to as lactational amenorrhea. As a result, many breastfeeding mothers may not experience their periods for several months after giving birth, with some not seeing a return until they significantly reduce breastfeeding or stop altogether.
What Happens When You Stop Breastfeeding?
When a mother decides to stop breastfeeding, the levels of prolactin in her body begin to decrease. This hormonal shift can lead to the resumption of ovulation and, consequently, the return of menstruation. However, the timing can vary widely among individuals. Some mothers may find that their periods return within a few weeks of stopping breastfeeding, while others might experience a delay of several months.
Irregularities and Variability
It’s important to note that even after stopping breastfeeding, the menstrual cycle may not return to its pre-pregnancy regularity immediately. Many women report experiencing irregular periods during the initial months following the cessation of breastfeeding. Factors such as stress, sleep patterns, and overall health can also influence the timing and regularity of menstrual cycles during this transitional phase.
Conclusion
In summary, stopping breastfeeding can indeed affect a mother’s menstrual cycle, primarily by allowing prolactin levels to drop, which facilitates the return of ovulation and menstruation. However, the exact timing and nature of this return can vary significantly from one individual to another. For mothers navigating this change, understanding the hormonal dynamics at play can provide clarity and reassurance during what can be a tumultuous time.

Is my period late because I stopped breastfeeding?

Most moms should see their periods return within six to eight weeks after weaning. If you haven’t gotten your period three months after you stop breastfeeding, talk to your doctor.

What are the side effects of stopping breastfeeding?

What’s more, when you wean, your body stops producing the feel-good hormones of oxytocin and prolactin. For some parents — especially if those who wean abruptly — this can increase feelings of moodiness, irritability, and sadness. For others, it can lead to something anecdotally known as post-weaning depression.

How long does it take for hormones to balance after stopping breastfeeding?

The return to pre-pregnancy hormone levels can vary greatly, but generally hormones will normalize within three to six months. If you are breastfeeding, as you wean from it, your prolactin and oxytocin levels will drop—potentially leaving you feeling sad, anxious or irritable.

How long does it take for period to normalize after breastfeeding?

Though most women get their periods within 12 weeks of delivery, breastfeeding is the most significant factor that can delay it. Your first periods after delivery can be different than your periods before you became pregnant, and it can take up to a year for them to return to the way they were.

How long can breastfeeding delay your period?

Exclusive breastfeeding will likely prevent the return of your menstrual cycle in the first six months after birth.

Do you gain weight when you stop breastfeeding?

Thanks to biological and behavioral changes, it’s totally normal to gain weight when you stop breastfeeding. “It’s really common that women will stop breastfeeding and their weight goes up,” G. Thomas Ruiz, M.D., an ob/gyn at MemorialCare Orange Coast Medical Center in Fountain Valley, California, tells SELF.

Why is my period so irregular while breastfeeding?

The hormone prolactin, which is responsible for production of breast milk, can suppress ovulation, leading to absent periods or irregular cycles. This means that while you are breastfeeding, you may not have a consistent cycle or you may not ovulate at all.

Can your period be irregular after stopping breastfeeding?

Yes. Typically, your periods after breastfeeding will be irregular. During pregnancy and breastfeeding, our hormone levels are fluctuating. This can mean it takes our body some extra time to find its natural pre-pregnancy rhythm and return to our normal cycle.

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 are the side effects of drying up breast milk?

Fever (temperature of 100.4°F or higher) • Chills • Aches • Weakness • Breast pain, redness or warmth while weaning.