Why did I get my periods while breastfeeding?

Understanding Menstruation While Breastfeeding
For many new parents, the return of menstruation during breastfeeding can be a surprising and sometimes concerning experience. 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 influenced by a variety of hormonal and physiological factors.
The Role of Prolactin
During breastfeeding, the hormone prolactin plays a crucial role in suppressing ovulation and, consequently, menstruation. High levels of prolactin are typically maintained when a mother breastfeeds frequently, especially during both day and night feeds. This hormonal environment is designed to support lactation and ensure that the mother’s body prioritizes milk production over reproductive functions.
However, as breastfeeding patterns change—such as when a mother begins to reduce the frequency of nursing or introduces solid foods—prolactin levels can decrease. This reduction can lead to the resumption of ovulation and, subsequently, the return of menstrual cycles.
Individual Variability
It’s important to note that every mother’s experience is unique. Some may find that their periods return as early as a few months postpartum, while others may not menstruate for many months or even longer, particularly if they are exclusively breastfeeding. Factors such as individual hormonal differences, the frequency of breastfeeding, and overall health can all influence when menstruation resumes.
Impact on Milk Supply
The return of menstruation can also have implications for breastfeeding. Hormonal fluctuations associated with the menstrual cycle may affect a mother’s milk supply temporarily. Some mothers report changes in their baby’s feeding patterns during this time, which can be managed by increasing breastfeeding frequency if needed.
Conclusion
In summary, while breastfeeding is often associated with a delay in the return of periods due to high prolactin levels, individual experiences can vary widely. Factors such as breastfeeding frequency, hormonal changes, and personal health all play significant roles in determining when menstruation will resume. If you have concerns about your menstrual cycle or breastfeeding, consulting with a healthcare provider can provide personalized guidance and support.

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.

When did you get your period back while breastfeeding?

If you are exclusively breastfeeding, you may still see the return of a monthly bleed beginning around 4 months, especially if your little one starts sleeping longer stretches at night at an early age. But more commonly, women get their periods back anywhere between 8 – 18 months postpartum.

Is it normal to bleed between periods and breastfeeding?

If you combine breastfeeding with formula feeding, your first period could start again after about 5-6 weeks after having your baby. When your baby starts breastfeeding less often (around 3 feeds a day), you may start ‘spotting’. Spotting is a light and irregular period that usually appears as spots of blood.

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.

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 did I start 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.

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.

Why am I bleeding bright red blood and I breastfeed?

You may notice the bleeding is redder and heavier when you breastfeed. This happens because breastfeeding makes your womb contract.

What does your first period look like while breastfeeding?

It might be a bit uncomfy to breastfeed during your first period after pregnancy. When your first post-baby period does show up, there’s a good chance your flow could be a little wonky compared to what you’re used to — it could be heavier, or even lighter. It could be longer or shorter than your pre-baby periods.

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.