Does breastmilk supply decrease when period returns?

Understanding the Impact of Menstruation on Breastmilk Supply
The return of menstruation can be a significant milestone for new mothers, but it often raises questions about its effects on breastfeeding, particularly regarding milk supply. Many women report experiencing a decrease in breastmilk production when their periods resume, and this phenomenon is largely attributed to hormonal fluctuations.
Hormonal Changes and Milk Supply
When menstruation returns, the body undergoes various hormonal changes that can influence lactation. Specifically, the drop in estrogen and progesterone levels just before the onset of a period can lead to a temporary decrease in milk supply. This is a common experience for many breastfeeding mothers, who may notice that their milk production dips during this time.
Research indicates that the hormonal shifts associated with the menstrual cycle can affect not only the quantity of milk produced but also the feeding behavior of infants. Some babies may feed more frequently or seem fussier during this period, which can further complicate the breastfeeding experience.
Nutritional Considerations
Interestingly, the return of menstruation can also impact a mother’s nutritional status, particularly her calcium levels. As calcium levels tend to drop just before a period, this deficiency can contribute to a decrease in milk supply. To mitigate this effect, healthcare professionals often recommend calcium and magnesium supplements to help maintain adequate levels of these essential nutrients, thereby supporting milk production.
Temporary Nature of Supply Changes
It’s important to note that any decrease in milk supply during menstruation is typically temporary. Many mothers find that their milk production stabilizes once their period concludes. However, if a mother experiences a persistent low supply even after her period ends, it may be indicative of other underlying issues that warrant further investigation.
Strategies to Maintain Milk Supply
For mothers concerned about maintaining their milk supply during their menstrual cycle, there are several strategies that can be employed. Staying hydrated, ensuring a balanced diet rich in essential nutrients, and considering herbal supplements like Shatavari may help support lactation during this time. Additionally, frequent breastfeeding or pumping can stimulate milk production and counteract any temporary dips.
Conclusion
In summary, while the return of menstruation can lead to a decrease in breastmilk supply for some mothers due to hormonal changes and nutritional factors, these effects are generally temporary. By understanding these dynamics and implementing supportive strategies, mothers can navigate this transition while continuing to provide nourishment for their infants. As always, if concerns about milk supply persist, consulting with a healthcare provider is advisable to explore potential solutions.

What causes breast milk to suddenly decrease?

Milk production may also decrease if you nurse or pump less often than you did before, get sick, are stressed, or get pregnant again. If low milk production seems to be a problem, but your baby seems to be sucking effectively talk with your healthcare provider or certified lactation consultant (IBCLC).

How to increase breast milk flow?

Increasing Your Milk Supply

1. Breastfeed every time your baby is hungry.
2. Make sure your baby is latching well.
3. Offer both breasts at each feeding.
4. Empty your breasts at each feeding.
5. Avoid bottles and pacifiers in the early weeks.
6. Get plenty of sleep, and eat a healthy diet.
7. Pump or express your milk.
8. Relax and massage.

Does breastmilk stop when you get period?

It’s unlikely. You may worry your supply is low if your baby behaves differently at the breast. But there is no reason to think your period will directly impact your supply if your baby continues to breastfeed often. If they fuss, it could just be due to a difference in the taste or flow of your milk.

How to increase milk supply during period?

The more you nurse your baby, the more signals your body receives to produce milk. Try to nurse on demand during your period, even if it means more frequent feedings than usual. Pump After Feedings: After nursing, consider using a breast pump to stimulate your breasts further and encourage more milk production.

Why are my breasts suddenly producing less milk?

Stress is the No. 1 killer of breastmilk supply, especially in the first few weeks after delivery. Between lack of sleep and adjusting to the baby’s schedule, rising levels of certain hormones such as cortisol can dramatically reduce your milk supply.

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.

What happens if your period returns while breastfeeding?

Irregular periods are also an aftereffect of pregnancy and breastfeeding. Your period is most likely to resume if your baby no longer requires night-time feeding because they are sleeping for six or more hours. If your baby is feeding less or has started eating solid foods, your period will return soon.

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 getting your period back affect milk supply?

Menstruation can sometimes decrease milk production
The increase in these hormones can cause a decrease in milk production for some women. However, for most women, the increase in these hormones is not high enough to affect milk production. Most mothers do not notice any impact of menstruation on their milk production.

Why is my milk supply not increasing after 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.