When do breastfeeding moms get their period back?

Understanding the Return of Menstruation for Breastfeeding Moms
For many new mothers, the return of their menstrual cycle after childbirth is a significant milestone, often intertwined with the experience of breastfeeding. The timing of when a breastfeeding mother gets her period back can vary widely, influenced by several factors including the frequency and exclusivity of breastfeeding.
Typical Timeline for Menstruation Resumption
Most breastfeeding mothers can expect to see their periods return between 9 and 18 months postpartum. This timeframe is largely dependent on how often they breastfeed and whether they are exclusively nursing. For those who breastfeed exclusively, the return of menstruation is often delayed, with many not experiencing their first period until closer to the 18-month mark.
Interestingly, the act of weaning can significantly influence this timeline. Many mothers find that once they begin to wean their baby, their menstrual cycle resumes almost immediately. However, it is important to note that most women do not need to completely stop breastfeeding for their periods to gradually return.
Factors Influencing Menstrual Cycle Resumption
Several factors can affect when a breastfeeding mother will get her period back:
1. Breastfeeding Frequency: Mothers who breastfeed more frequently may experience a longer delay in the return of their menstrual cycle. This is due to the hormonal changes that breastfeeding induces, which can suppress ovulation.
2. Exclusivity of Breastfeeding: Those who exclusively breastfeed are likely to see a later return of their periods compared to mothers who supplement with formula or other foods. For mothers who do not breastfeed at all, menstruation can resume as early as two weeks to three months after delivery.
3. Individual Variability: Each woman’s body is different, and factors such as hormonal balance, overall health, and individual breastfeeding practices can lead to significant variability in when menstruation returns.
What to Expect When Periods Return
When menstruation does return, many mothers may notice changes in their menstrual cycle compared to pre-pregnancy patterns. This can include variations in flow, duration, and even the timing of the cycle itself. Additionally, some mothers report that their milk supply may temporarily decrease during their period, but it typically rebounds shortly after.
In summary, while the return of menstruation for breastfeeding mothers can be anticipated between 6 and 18 months postpartum, individual experiences will vary. Understanding these dynamics can help mothers navigate their postpartum journey with greater awareness and preparedness.

When did your period return while breastfeeding?

The return of ovulation and menstrual cycles remains highly variable. However, research shows these cycles are more likely to return after six months than before six months if a mom is breastfeeding exclusively. This is normal. However, it is possible to get your period while breastfeeding before the 6 month mark.

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.

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 soon can a breastfeeding mom get her period?

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.

How can I get my period to come back while breastfeeding?

Your period is most likely to resume if your baby no longer requires night-time feeding because they are sleeping for six or more hours. If your baby is feeding less or has started eating solid foods, your period will return soon.

When does milk supply decrease?

Breast milk supply is maintained by frequent nursing. Some moms experience a sudden drop in supply when they return to work or if they’re away from their baby for other reasons. Not pumping often enough. If your pumping frequency doesn’t match your little one’s demand, you might see your supply dropping.

Does breastmilk taste different when on your period?

Your period has little impact on your breastfed baby. While milk composition does change a bit during this time, and it may have a slightly saltier taste, it has no negative effect on your baby. Your milk is still perfectly healthy and nutritious!

How long can lactational amenorrhea last?

It can work for up to 6 months after birth. It is effective right away. There are no added hormones that can affect your breastmilk. There is no cost and no birth control supplies are needed.

How soon can you get pregnant while breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding and Fertility
Once you start menstruating, it is usually a sign that your fertility has returned or will return soon. As menstruation returns to a fairly regular schedule, it usually means that you are back to full fertility and breastfeeding won’t have any effect on your ability to get pregnant.

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.