Does milk supply drop when on your period?

Understanding the Impact of Menstruation on Milk Supply
For breastfeeding mothers, the return of menstruation can bring about various changes, including potential fluctuations in milk supply. Many women report experiencing a drop in breast milk production when their period arrives, and this phenomenon is largely attributed to hormonal changes that occur during the menstrual cycle.
Hormonal Influences
When menstruation begins, the body undergoes significant hormonal shifts. These changes can lead to a decrease in milk supply for some women. Specifically, the drop in estrogen and progesterone levels can affect the production of prolactin, the hormone responsible for milk production. As a result, mothers may notice that they are producing less milk than they did prior to their period.
Calcium Levels and Milk Production
Another factor contributing to this decrease in milk supply is the fluctuation of calcium levels in the body. Research suggests that just before menstruation, blood calcium levels can drop, which may impact milk production. To counteract this, some lactation professionals recommend calcium and magnesium supplements, theorizing that maintaining higher calcium levels can help sustain milk supply during this time .
Normalcy of Supply Drops
It’s important to note that temporary drops in milk supply during menstruation are considered normal for many mothers. This experience can vary widely; while some may notice a significant decrease, others might not see any change at all. The variability can depend on individual body chemistry, breastfeeding frequency, and overall health.
Coping Strategies
For mothers concerned about maintaining their milk supply during their period, several strategies can be employed. Ensuring adequate rest, managing stress through relaxation techniques, and possibly incorporating dietary supplements can all help mitigate the effects of menstruation on milk production. Additionally, staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet can support overall health and breastfeeding success.
Conclusion
In summary, while many breastfeeding mothers may experience a drop in milk supply during their menstrual cycle due to hormonal changes and fluctuations in calcium levels, this is a common occurrence. Understanding these dynamics can empower mothers to take proactive steps to support their milk production during this time.

What causes breast milk discharge during period?

Nipple discharge is a typical part of how the breast works during pregnancy or breast-feeding. It also can be linked to menstrual hormone changes and common changes in breast tissue, called fibrocystic breast.

How to tell if breast milk is drying up?

The following are signs your baby isn’t getting enough milk:

1. Poor weight gain. It’s normal for newborns to lose 5% to 7% of their birth weight in the first few days – some lose up to 10%.
2. Insufficient, wet or dirty nappies.
3. Dehydration.

What causes a drastic drop in milk supply?

A decrease in milk supply can be caused by a variety of different factors. A very common (and solvable) problem is not pumping or feeding enough. Because milk production works on a supply and demand basis, not pumping on a frequent schedule will signal to your body that it does not need to produce milk.

Why did I get my period if I’m breastfeeding?

If you have lower levels of progesterone, you’re likely to get your periods back earlier than people with higher levels (Ingram et al 2004). So it’s possible that you could be breastfeeding around the clock, but still become fertile and start your periods again.

Do soft breasts mean no milk?

Your breasts feel softer
This happens as your milk supply adjusts to your baby’s needs. The initial breast fullness reduces in the first few weeks. At around 6 weeks, breast fullness is completely gone and your breasts may feel soft. This is completely normal and has no effect on 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.

Is it normal to leak milk while on your period?

Causes of harmless nipple discharge include: Hormonal imbalances or changes (like during menstruation or menopause). Pregnancy or breastfeeding (chestfeeding). Medications, including birth control pills and some antidepressants.

How many days does it take for milk supply to decrease?

It may take several days or weeks for your breasts to completely stop making milk. Breast fullness should decrease in 1-3 days. You may feel emotional during this time. Be sure to take care of yourself.

How long does milk supply drop during period?

For some, milk supply is unaffected by their cycle. For others, breast milk production can drop during ovulation (mid-cycle), until the first day or two of the next menstrual period.

Does leaking breasts mean good milk supply?

You can leak breastmilk for a variety of reasons including having a full supply, or if your body is not yet sure how much to produce, if your mature milk is starting to come in, if you’ve missed a feeding, or even if you are just thinking about your baby.