Does your period affect your milk supply?

Does Your Period Affect Your Milk Supply?
For many breastfeeding mothers, the return of their menstrual cycle can raise questions about its impact on milk supply. The relationship between menstruation and breastfeeding is complex, influenced by hormonal fluctuations that occur during the menstrual cycle.
Hormonal Influences on Milk Production
The menstrual cycle is characterized by significant hormonal changes, particularly in levels of estrogen and progesterone. These hormones can affect breast milk production. As a woman approaches her period, she may experience a temporary decrease in milk supply due to these hormonal shifts. This drop is often most noticeable in the days leading up to menstruation, as the body prepares for the menstrual phase.
Temporary Supply Changes
While some mothers report a decrease in milk supply during their periods, it’s important to note that this change is typically temporary. Many women find that their milk supply stabilizes or even increases once menstruation begins, as hormonal levels begin to balance out. This fluctuation can lead to variations in feeding patterns, with some babies appearing fussier at the breast. However, this fussiness may not necessarily indicate a true decrease in milk supply; it could also be related to changes in the taste or flow of milk during this time.
Strategies to Mitigate Supply Drops
For those concerned about a potential dip in milk supply, lactation professionals often recommend certain strategies. One suggestion is to consider calcium-magnesium supplements, as some studies suggest that a decrease in calcium levels during menstruation may contribute to reduced milk production. Additionally, maintaining frequent breastfeeding sessions can help stimulate milk production and mitigate any temporary drops.
Conclusion
In summary, while your period can influence your milk supply due to hormonal changes, these effects are generally temporary and manageable. Understanding this relationship can help breastfeeding mothers navigate their cycles with confidence, ensuring that both they and their babies continue to thrive during this natural phase of life.

Does period mean no more breastfeeding?

Hormonal changes with your menstrual cycle (periods) may affect how your baby wants to feed. This may affect your breast milk supply. But a few additional breastfeeds per day are usually enough to boost your breast milk supply back up.

What happens if you hold a baby while 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 milk supply go back up after a period?

This is normal behavior—and in fact, nursing more frequently is your baby’s way of ensuring that they get enough milk. It’s very rare that your drop in milk supply will mean that you are somehow starving your baby. Remember that the drop is normal, time-limited, and your supply will rebound once you get your period.

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.

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 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.

Does milk supply decrease when on period?

Menstruation can sometimes decrease milk production
After ovulation, estrogen and progesterone levels in the body rise and calcium levels fall. The increase in these hormones can cause a decrease in milk production for some women.

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.

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.

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.