How long does it take to get your first period while breastfeeding?

Understanding the Return of Your Period While Breastfeeding
For many new mothers, the return of menstruation after childbirth is a significant milestone, often intertwined with the experience of breastfeeding. The timeline for when a woman might get her first period postpartum can vary widely, influenced by several factors, particularly breastfeeding practices.
The General Timeline
Typically, for mothers who are exclusively breastfeeding, the first menstrual period may not return for several months, often ranging from 9 to 18 months after giving birth. This delay is largely due to the hormonal changes that breastfeeding induces. Prolactin, the hormone responsible for milk production, can suppress ovulation, thereby postponing the return of menstruation.
For those who are not exclusively breastfeeding or who introduce formula feeding, the return of periods can occur much sooner. Some mothers may find that their menstrual cycle resumes as early as 5 to 6 weeks postpartum, especially if they are combining breastfeeding with formula.
Factors Influencing the Return of Menstruation
1. Breastfeeding Exclusivity: Mothers who breastfeed exclusively are less likely to experience their period returning quickly. The more frequently and consistently a mother breastfeeds, particularly during the night, the longer it may take for her menstrual cycle to resume.
2. Weaning: Gradually reducing breastfeeding sessions, particularly nighttime feedings, can trigger the return of menstruation. Many mothers report that their periods return shortly after they begin to wean their baby.
3. Individual Variation: Each woman’s body responds differently to the hormonal shifts following childbirth. While some may experience a quick return to their cycle, others may find it takes longer, influenced by their unique hormonal balance and breastfeeding habits.
What to Expect When Your Period Returns
When menstruation does return, some mothers may notice changes in their milk supply. Hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle can affect breastfeeding, but most women find that their milk supply stabilizes after a few days. It’s important for mothers to monitor their baby’s feeding patterns and consult healthcare providers if they have concerns about milk supply during their period.
In conclusion, while the return of menstruation during breastfeeding can be unpredictable, understanding the factors at play can help mothers navigate this transition. Whether it takes a few weeks or several months, each woman’s experience is unique, shaped by her breastfeeding journey and individual health.

How soon can a breastfeeding mom get her period?

The first period after the birth of your child can be as early as five to six weeks. Or, you may not have your period for as long as you nurse your child. Once you stop feeding your baby at night or begin to give them formula or solid foods, your period will return soon.

Why did I get my period so soon while breastfeeding?

If your first postpartum period returns earlier than expected while you’re breast feeding, one reason could be if you’ve stopped breastfeeding overnight. If your baby is sleeping through the night before the age of 6 months, this may cause your period to return earlier than normal which can affect your milk supply.

Why did I start my period if I’m exclusively 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 common is it to miss a period while breastfeeding?

Also, some people have a non-ovulatory period before 6 months postpartum, but do not menstruate again for many months. According to The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding (p. 364-366), almost everyone who is fully breastfeeding their babies will be free of menstrual periods for 3 – 6 months or longer.

When will I get my first period while breastfeeding?

If you bottle feed your baby, or combine bottle feeding with breastfeeding, your first period could start as soon as 5 to 6 weeks after you give birth. If you fully breastfeed (including at night) without any bottle feeding, your periods may not start again until you start to reduce breastfeeding.

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.

What are the signs of pregnancy while breastfeeding?

In the early stage or first trimester of your pregnancy, you may have nipple tenderness and breast soreness. You may have a decreased food and water intake due to morning sickness and feel tired. Such physical discomfort may increase while breastfeeding.

Does breastfeeding delay the first period?

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.

Does drying up your milk hurt?

If your breasts do become engorged, they may feel hard, tight and painful. We have included some tips below to help minimise any discomfort you may experience when drying up your milk supply. Cold compresses, such as cooling gel breast pads, can be placed in your bra to help relieve symptoms of breast engorgement.

Why am I getting my period while 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.