How come I got my period while breastfeeding?

Understanding Menstruation While Breastfeeding
For many new mothers, the return of menstruation during breastfeeding can come as a surprise. While it is commonly believed that breastfeeding delays the return of periods, this is not a universal truth. The relationship between breastfeeding and menstruation is complex and influenced by various hormonal and physiological factors.
The Role of Hormones
Breastfeeding primarily affects the levels of hormones in a woman’s body, particularly prolactin, which is responsible for milk production. High levels of prolactin can suppress ovulation, leading to a delay in the return of menstruation. However, this suppression is not absolute. Individual hormonal responses vary significantly; some women may experience a return of their menstrual cycle as early as a few months postpartum, even while breastfeeding exclusively.
Factors Influencing the Return of Periods
Several factors can influence when a breastfeeding mother might get her period again:
1. Frequency of Nursing: The more frequently a baby nurses, especially during the night, the higher the prolactin levels, which can delay menstruation. Conversely, if a mother begins to supplement with formula or if the baby starts to sleep longer stretches, this can lead to a decrease in prolactin levels and a potential return of the menstrual cycle.
2. Individual Differences: Each woman’s body responds differently to the hormonal changes associated with breastfeeding. Some may experience non-ovulatory cycles, where they have menstrual-like bleeding without actual ovulation, while others may resume regular cycles.
3. Nutritional Factors: A mother’s overall health and nutritional status can also play a role. Stress, diet, and overall well-being can impact hormonal balance and, consequently, the menstrual cycle.
Impact on Breastfeeding
When menstruation resumes, many mothers wonder if it will affect their milk supply or their baby’s feeding patterns. Generally, hormonal changes during the menstrual cycle can lead to temporary fluctuations in milk supply, but these are usually manageable. Most babies will adjust to these changes, and a few additional feedings can help maintain milk production.
Conclusion
In summary, getting your period while breastfeeding is a normal occurrence that can happen for various reasons. While breastfeeding can delay menstruation due to hormonal influences, it does not guarantee that periods will not return until weaning. Each woman’s experience is unique, and understanding the interplay of nursing frequency, hormonal changes, and individual health can help demystify this aspect of postpartum life. If concerns arise, consulting with a healthcare provider can provide personalized guidance and reassurance.

Does getting your period mean your milk is drying up?

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.

Will my milk supply return after my period?

Your milk supply may drop the week before your period starts and then rebound thereafter. Moms may notice decreased pump volumes or softer breasts during this time. Remember, you can’t go wrong feeding the baby on demand at the breast. You may pump less, but your body will always make milk as the baby is suckling.

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.

Is it normal to get a period while breastfeeding?

After having a baby, your periods will return at your body’s own pace. If you are breastfeeding your baby, your periods may not return for months or even years after childbirth. If your baby is being fed using formula, you may find your periods return shortly after childbirth.

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.

Is bleeding during breastfeeding normal?

If you notice blood while breast-feeding, pumping, or expressing for longer than a week, see a doctor. In rare cases, blood in the breast milk may be a symptom of breast cancer. It’s usually OK to continue your breast-feeding routine with small amounts of blood in your breast milk.

Should I stop breastfeeding if I’m bleeding?

Usually, even if you have an infection, it’s still safe to breastfeed with blood in your breast milk but some infections are not safe for your baby. For instance, if you have a blood-borne infection, you should talk to a health care provider.

Can my period affect my baby?

Menstruation can affect your milk supply, especially during the end of the cycle or during your period. This is due to a decrease in prolactin concentration. At this time, nursing may be uncomfortable, and you might see your baby nursing more frequently due to the decrease in blood supply.

Can your period come back while pumping?

But in general, if you are lactating consistently, your period will likely not return for several months or even a year after childbirth. If you aren’t breastfeeding exclusively, you may get your period sooner. Lactation suspends your menstrual cycle by impacting postpartum hormones.

Why is my breast bringing out milk after my period?

Galactorrhea is a condition where your breasts leak milk. The main sign of galactorrhea is when it happens in people who aren’t pregnant or breastfeeding. It’s caused by stimulation, medication or a pituitary gland disorder.