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Is it normal to not have a period 8 months postpartum while breastfeeding?

Understanding Postpartum Menstruation While Breastfeeding
For many new mothers, the return of menstruation after childbirth can be a source of confusion and concern, especially when breastfeeding. If you find yourself eight months postpartum without a period while breastfeeding, you are not alone, and this situation can be quite normal.
The Role of Breastfeeding in Menstrual Cycles
Breastfeeding significantly influences the menstrual cycle due to hormonal changes in the body. When a mother breastfeeds, the hormone prolactin is elevated, which helps in milk production but also suppresses ovulation. This phenomenon is known as lactational amenorrhea. Essentially, the regular nursing of your baby inhibits the release of hormones necessary for ovulation and menstruation, leading many breastfeeding mothers to experience a delay in the return of their periods.
Individual Variability
It’s important to note that the timing of the return of menstruation can vary widely among women. Some may experience their first postpartum period as early as six weeks after giving birth, while others may not see a return for several months or even longer. Factors such as individual hormonal differences, the frequency of breastfeeding, and whether the baby is exclusively breastfed or supplemented with formula can all play a role in this variability.
What is Considered Normal?
According to health experts, irregular or absent periods during the postpartum period are common. Many women who breastfeed find that their periods may not return for many months, and even when they do, they can be irregular at first. This irregularity is often a normal part of the postpartum experience, and it can be influenced by how often the baby nurses.
When to Seek Medical Advice
While it is generally normal to not have a period for an extended time while breastfeeding, if you have concerns about your menstrual cycle or if you experience other symptoms that seem unusual, it may be wise to consult with a healthcare provider. They can help determine if there are any underlying issues that need to be addressed.
In summary, not having a period eight months postpartum while breastfeeding is typically normal. The interplay of breastfeeding hormones and individual physiological differences means that each woman’s experience can be unique. If you have any concerns, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare professional for personalized advice.

Why am I not getting my period after 8 months breastfeeding?

It’s not unusual to skip a period, or even for it to be a few months before your next one. When you start reducing the amount of time you spend breastfeeding, your periods should start to return to their usual routine. You should talk to your doctor about your periods if you are having: changes in their usual pattern.

Why am I not getting my period for 9 months while breastfeeding?

Most breastfeeding mothers will resume their periods between 9 and 18 months after their baby’s birth. Weaning your baby will almost certainly cause your menstrual cycle to return, but most people find that they do not need to wean in order for their cycle to gradually resume.

Why do periods stop when breastfeeding?

This is called lactational amenorrhea. Fully breastfeeding means the baby relies completely on breastfeeding for nourishment and for all sucking needs. Frequent nursing inhibits the release of hormones that cause your body to begin the monthly preparations for a new pregnancy.

How likely is it to get pregnant while breastfeeding and no period?

The Lactational Amenorrhea Method, known as LAM
LAM is listed by the World Health Organization as an accepted and effective method of contraception. Studies have shown that LAM is a 98% effective method of contraception for as long as you meet ALL of the following conditions: Your periods have not returned.

How long can you go without a period after breastfeeding?

If you choose to breastfeed exclusively, your first period may not return for several months. For those who keep breastfeeding, it might not return for 1 to 2 years. There is no way to know if your periods will return the same way they were before you were pregnant.

Can you get pregnant 8 months postpartum 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.

Can your period just stop while breastfeeding?

No release of hormones means no ovulation can take place, and so you have no period. But because amenorrhea is unique to each and every breastfeeding mother, this can last anywhere from just a few months postpartum to several years.

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.

How long are you super fertile after giving birth?

You may have heard that people are “super fertile” after giving birth, but there’s no scientific evidence indicating that fertility increases post childbirth.

Is it normal to have no period 8 months postpartum?

It’s normal not to menstruate for six months or longer when you’re exclusively breastfeeding or chestfeeding your baby.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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