Do you bleed more postpartum when breastfeeding?

Postpartum Bleeding and Breastfeeding: What You Need to Know
Postpartum bleeding, known medically as lochia, is a natural part of the postpartum recovery process. Following childbirth, many women experience varying degrees of vaginal bleeding as the body works to shed the uterine lining and other tissues that accumulated during pregnancy. An important question arises for new mothers: Does breastfeeding influence the amount of postpartum bleeding?
Understanding Lochia
Lochia typically occurs in three stages:
1. Lochia Rubra: This stage lasts for about three to four days post-delivery and consists mainly of blood.
2. Lochia Serosa: Lasting from about four to ten days, this stage features a lighter discharge that is pinkish or brownish.
3. Lochia Alba: This final stage can last up to six weeks or more, consisting of a yellowish-white discharge that is primarily made up of white blood cells.
The Role of Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding plays a significant role in postpartum recovery, particularly through the release of the hormone oxytocin. This hormone, often referred to as the “love hormone,” is released during breastfeeding and helps the uterus contract. These contractions are essential for reducing the size of the uterus and, in turn, minimizing bleeding.
Do You Bleed More While Breastfeeding?
Research and anecdotal evidence suggest that breastfeeding may actually help reduce the duration and amount of postpartum bleeding. When a mother breastfeeds, the stimulation of the nipples triggers the release of oxytocin, which can lead to stronger uterine contractions. These contractions can help to expel any remaining blood and tissue more efficiently.
However, some women may experience a temporary increase in bleeding while breastfeeding due to the contractions. This phenomenon can be alarming but is generally considered a normal response. As the uterus contracts more effectively, it may result in a brief, noticeable increase in bleeding, particularly in the initial days postpartum.
Factors Affecting Postpartum Bleeding
While breastfeeding generally promotes uterine contractions and reduces bleeding, several factors can influence the experience of postpartum bleeding:
– Delivery Method: Women who undergo cesarean sections may experience different bleeding patterns compared to those who have vaginal deliveries.
– Individual Health: Pre-existing health conditions and complications during delivery can impact bleeding.
– Number of Previous Pregnancies: Women who have had multiple pregnancies may have different uterine responses compared to first-time mothers.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding can have a positive effect on postpartum bleeding by promoting uterine contractions via oxytocin release. While some women may notice slight increases in bleeding during breastfeeding, this is often temporary and not a cause for concern. New mothers are encouraged to monitor their postpartum recovery and consult healthcare providers if they experience heavy bleeding or other concerning symptoms. Understanding the relationship between breastfeeding and postpartum bleeding can empower mothers during their recovery journey, promoting both physical and emotional well-being.

What are the signs of a retained placenta?

Symptoms of a retained placenta include:

• fever.
• heavy bleeding.
• bad-smelling discharge from your vagina.
• many large clots coming out of the vagina.

Are periods heavier after breastfeeding?

Conclusion. The first postpartum period may be heavier and more painful than those before pregnancy, or it may be lighter and easier. Some women have their first postpartum period shortly after lochia, while others may wait many months, especially if they are breastfeeding.

Is it normal to stop bleeding and then start again postpartum?

It was common for postpartum bleeding to stop and start again or to be characterized by intermittent spotting or bleeding. Return of menses is rare among fully breast-feeding women in the first 8 weeks postpartum.

Does breastfeeding make you bleed more period?

Exclusively breastfeeding can suppress ovulation and delay the return of your menstrual cycle after giving birth. However, when your periods do return, they might be heavier than usual due to hormonal fluctuation.

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.

Why am I pouring blood on my period?

For many people, heavy periods have no cause. For others, it’s due to a health condition such as fibroids, adenomyosis or endometriosis. You may be experiencing a heavier than ‘normal’ period if you’re: bleeding through your clothes.

Why am I suddenly bleeding more postpartum?

After the placenta is delivered, these contractions help put pressure on the bleeding vessels in the area where the placenta was attached. If the uterus does not contract strongly enough, these blood vessels bleed freely. This is the most common cause of postpartum hemorrhage.

Why am I getting my period back while breastfeeding?

If your first postpartum period returns earlier than expected while you’re breast feeding, one reason could be if you’ve stopped breastfeeding overnight. If your baby is sleeping through the night before the age of 6 months, this may cause your period to return earlier than normal which can affect your milk supply.

Can breastfeeding make you bleed more postpartum?

Bleeding after birth (lochia)
It isn’t a good idea to use tampons until after your 6-week postnatal check because they could increase your chance of getting an infection. You may notice the bleeding is redder and heavier when you breastfeed. This happens because breastfeeding makes your womb contract.

What are the side effects of breastfeeding while pregnant?

What are the risks of breastfeeding while pregnant?

• sore nipples.
• nausea (may be triggered during letdown)
• fatigue.
• feelings of being overwhelmed.
• a decreased milk supply.
• changes to your breast milk — the color, consistency, and taste may change.