Does your period affect milk supply?

Does Your Period Affect Milk Supply?
For breastfeeding mothers, the return of menstruation can raise questions about its impact on milk supply. Many women wonder if their menstrual cycle will affect their ability to produce enough milk for their babies. The answer is nuanced, as hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle can indeed lead to temporary changes in milk production.
Hormonal Changes and Milk Supply
When a mother’s period returns, typically after several months of breastfeeding, she may experience a temporary drop in milk supply. This decrease is largely attributed to hormonal changes that occur in the body during the menstrual cycle. Specifically, the levels of estrogen and progesterone fluctuate, which can influence milk production. Many mothers report noticing a dip in supply in the days leading up to their period, often referred to as the luteal phase of the cycle.
However, it’s important to note that this drop is usually temporary. Once menstruation begins, many women find that their milk supply stabilizes or even increases as hormonal levels begin to balance out. This means that while some mothers may experience a noticeable change in supply, it is often not a cause for concern if they continue to breastfeed regularly.
Baby’s Behavior and Milk Taste
Mothers may also observe changes in their baby’s behavior at the breast during their period. Some babies might seem fussier or less interested in breastfeeding. This can be attributed to changes in the taste and flow of milk, rather than a significant drop in supply. The composition of breast milk can vary slightly due to hormonal shifts, which might make it taste different to the baby. Therefore, if a baby is fussy, it may not necessarily indicate a low milk supply.
Nutritional Considerations
To mitigate potential drops in milk supply during menstruation, some lactation professionals recommend calcium and magnesium supplements. The theory is that a decrease in calcium levels during menstruation could contribute to reduced milk production. Additionally, incorporating foods like oatmeal into the diet may help some mothers maintain their milk supply, although scientific evidence supporting this is limited.
Conclusion
In summary, while many breastfeeding mothers may experience a temporary decrease in milk supply during their menstrual cycle, this is typically not a long-term issue. Regular breastfeeding can help maintain supply, and any changes in a baby’s behavior may be more related to taste than to actual milk availability. For mothers concerned about their milk supply during this time, dietary adjustments and supplements may provide some support. Ultimately, staying attuned to both personal and baby’s needs is key to navigating breastfeeding during menstruation.

Why shouldn’t you drink milk on your period?

Having a lot of dairy products is not the best idea, as it can cause cramping. Dairy products like milk, cheese, and ice cream contain arachidonic acid (an omega-6 fatty acid), which can increase inflammation and can intensify your period pain.

Is it possible to get pregnant while breastfeeding?

“You can’t get pregnant if you’re breastfeeding.” Maybe you’ve heard this myth before…and we should warn you, it’s just that—a myth! The truth is you can get pregnant while you’re breastfeeding, even if your menstrual cycle hasn’t returned to normal.

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.

Will my milk supply drop when I get my period?

Some moms may deal with a drop in milk supply right before our period arrives, and for the first day or two of our periods. While this drop is normal and temporary, it can be stressful to deal with — for both you and your baby.

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).

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 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.

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.

What makes your milk supply dry up?

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.

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.