Does your milk supply drop with your period?

Does Your Milk Supply Drop with Your Period?
For many breastfeeding mothers, the return of their menstrual cycle can bring about a range of changes, not just in their bodies but also in their milk supply. Understanding how menstruation affects lactation is crucial for new mothers navigating this phase of motherhood.
Hormonal Changes and Milk Supply
When a woman gets her period, her body undergoes significant hormonal fluctuations. These changes can lead to a temporary drop in breast milk supply. As the menstrual cycle progresses, particularly in the days leading up to menstruation, some mothers report a noticeable decrease in milk production. This phenomenon is attributed to the hormonal shifts that occur during the menstrual cycle, which can impact lactation hormones like prolactin and oxytocin.
The Role of Calcium and Magnesium
Interestingly, some lactation experts suggest that the drop in milk supply may be linked to decreased calcium levels in the blood during menstruation. To counteract this, they recommend considering calcium and magnesium supplements. These supplements may help stabilize calcium levels, potentially mitigating the impact on milk supply. Mothers experiencing a drop in supply might find relief by incorporating these supplements into their diet, alongside maintaining proper hydration and nutrition.
Managing Supply Drops
For mothers who notice a decrease in milk supply during their periods, there are several strategies to help manage this situation. Staying well-hydrated, getting adequate rest, and practicing relaxation techniques can be beneficial. Additionally, some herbal remedies, such as Shatavari, are suggested to support milk production during this time.
It’s important to note that while many mothers experience a temporary dip in milk supply, this is often a normal part of the breastfeeding journey. The fluctuations are typically short-lived, and with proper care and attention, most mothers can maintain their breastfeeding goals.
Conclusion
In summary, yes, many breastfeeding mothers may experience a drop in milk supply with the onset of their period due to hormonal changes and potential fluctuations in calcium levels. However, with appropriate dietary adjustments and self-care practices, these challenges can often be managed effectively. Understanding these dynamics can empower mothers to navigate their breastfeeding experience with greater confidence and ease.

Can periods decrease milk supply?

During the menstrual cycle, hormonal fluctuations are inevitable, impacting breast milk production. The two primary hormones involved are estrogen and progesterone. As menstruation approaches, these hormone levels decrease, leading to a drop in milk supply for some women.

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.

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.

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.

When does milk supply decrease?

Breast milk supply is maintained by frequent nursing. Some moms experience a sudden drop in supply when they return to work or if they’re away from their baby for other reasons. Not pumping often enough. If your pumping frequency doesn’t match your little one’s demand, you might see your supply dropping.

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.

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 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.

Does leaking 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.