Why does milk supply drop during your period?

Understanding the Drop in Milk Supply During Menstruation
For many breastfeeding mothers, the return of their menstrual cycle can bring about unexpected changes, particularly in milk supply. This phenomenon is primarily attributed to hormonal fluctuations that occur during the menstrual cycle, which can significantly impact lactation.
Hormonal Changes and Their Effects
As a woman approaches her period, her body undergoes a series of hormonal shifts, particularly involving estrogen and progesterone. These hormones play crucial roles in regulating various bodily functions, including lactation. Research indicates that these hormonal changes can lead to a noticeable drop in breast milk production, often beginning just before menstruation and continuing through the period itself.
One of the key factors contributing to this drop is the fluctuation in calcium levels in the blood. Studies have shown that serum calcium concentrations tend to be lowest right before menstruation. Since calcium is essential for milk production, lower levels can directly correlate with a decrease in milk supply . This drop in calcium can create a cycle where reduced milk production further affects the mother’s ability to nurse comfortably, as the milk flow may slow down.
Timing of the Supply Drop
Many women report that their milk supply dips not only during their period but also in the days leading up to it. This pattern is often linked to the ovulatory phase of the menstrual cycle, where hormonal changes can begin to affect milk production. The supply drop is typically temporary, with many mothers noticing a return to their usual levels of milk production once their period concludes.
Impact on Nursing and Baby’s Response
Interestingly, the changes in milk supply and composition during menstruation can also affect how babies respond to breastfeeding. Some infants may detect subtle changes in the taste of breast milk due to hormonal shifts, which can influence their feeding behavior. If a baby is less interested in nursing during this time, it may further exacerbate the mother’s perception of a supply drop.
Managing the Changes
For mothers experiencing a drop in milk supply during their menstrual cycle, there are strategies that may help mitigate the effects. Some lactation professionals recommend calcium and magnesium supplements to counteract the drop in serum calcium levels. Additionally, staying hydrated and maintaining a balanced diet can support overall milk production during this time.
In conclusion, while the drop in milk supply during menstruation can be concerning for breastfeeding mothers, it is a common and temporary occurrence driven by hormonal changes and fluctuations in calcium levels. Understanding these dynamics can help mothers navigate this phase with greater ease and confidence.

Does bleeding affect milk supply?

Sometimes, mothers have medical issues that can cause low milk supply including: Severe postpartum bleeding or hemorrhage (more than 1,000 ml). You can ask your healthcare provider about blood loss during labor and delivery.

What causes breast milk discharge during period?

Nipple discharge is a typical part of how the breast works during pregnancy or breast-feeding. It also can be linked to menstrual hormone changes and common changes in breast tissue, called fibrocystic breast.

Do soft breasts mean no milk?

Your breasts feel softer
This happens as your milk supply adjusts to your baby’s needs. The initial breast fullness reduces in the first few weeks. At around 6 weeks, breast fullness is completely gone and your breasts may feel soft. This is completely normal and has no effect on your milk supply.

Does leaking breasts mean good milk supply?

You can leak breastmilk for a variety of reasons including having a full supply, or if your body is not yet sure how much to produce, if your mature milk is starting to come in, if you’ve missed a feeding, or even if you are just thinking about your baby.

Is it normal to leak milk while on your period?

Causes of harmless nipple discharge include: Hormonal imbalances or changes (like during menstruation or menopause). Pregnancy or breastfeeding (chestfeeding). Medications, including birth control pills and some antidepressants.

Why is my milk supply low during my period?

During the menstrual cycle, hormonal fluctuations are inevitable, impacting breast milk production. The two primary hormones involved are estrogen and progesterone. As menstruation approaches, these hormone levels decrease, leading to a drop in milk supply for some women.

What causes a drastic drop in milk supply?

A decrease in milk supply can be caused by a variety of different factors. A very common (and solvable) problem is not pumping or feeding enough. Because milk production works on a supply and demand basis, not pumping on a frequent schedule will signal to your body that it does not need to produce milk.

Why cant I have milk on my period?

However, some women might also feel an aversion to milk during menstruation. This is caused by the progesterone hormone that causes bloating and water retention in the body. Another hormone that can influence your milk consumption during periods is prolactin.

Does milk supply drop when dehydrated?

One of the best ways to increase breast milk production is to make sure you aren’t suffering from dehydration. Remember, dehydration can dramatically decrease breast milk production. By staying hydrated and avoiding dehydration, your body will have the water and electrolytes it needs to build milk supply.

How to tell if breast milk is drying up?

The following are signs your baby isn’t getting enough milk:

1. Poor weight gain. It’s normal for newborns to lose 5% to 7% of their birth weight in the first few days – some lose up to 10%.
2. Insufficient, wet or dirty nappies.
3. Dehydration.