Why does my milk supply drop when I get my 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 a noticeable drop in milk supply. This phenomenon, while concerning, is rooted in the hormonal fluctuations that accompany the menstrual cycle.
Hormonal Changes and Their Impact
When menstruation begins, the body undergoes significant hormonal shifts. Specifically, levels of estrogen and progesterone fluctuate, which can directly affect milk production. Research indicates that many women experience a decrease in milk supply just before their period starts and continuing through the duration of menstruation. This drop is primarily attributed to the hormonal changes that signal the body to prepare for menstruation, which can lead to a temporary reduction in milk production.
Milk Composition and Baby’s Response
Interestingly, the composition of breast milk can also change during this time. Some mothers report that their milk may taste different due to these hormonal shifts, which can influence how their babies respond to breastfeeding. If a baby is less interested in nursing because of the altered taste, this can further exacerbate the drop in supply, creating a cycle of reduced demand and production.
Calcium Levels and Milk Supply
Another factor that may contribute to this decrease in milk supply is the fluctuation in calcium levels. Some studies suggest that calcium levels can drop just before menstruation, which may impact milk production. To counteract this, lactation professionals often recommend calcium and magnesium supplements during this time to help stabilize milk supply.
Coping Strategies for Mothers
For mothers experiencing a drop in milk supply during their periods, there are several strategies that may help. Staying hydrated, ensuring adequate nutrition, and possibly incorporating herbal supplements like Shatavari can support milk production. Additionally, frequent breastfeeding or pumping can help stimulate supply, as maintaining demand is crucial for milk production.
In summary, while a drop in milk supply during menstruation can be disheartening, understanding the underlying hormonal changes and taking proactive steps can help mothers navigate this natural phase of breastfeeding.

How long does it take for breasts to refill?

To put a number on it, it usually takes about 20 to 30 minutes after feeding to generate enough milk for your baby, and about 60 minutes to replenish fully. The more often your baby feeds, and the more they empty your breasts, the more milk your body will produce.

Can your period cause low milk supply?

DOES YOUR PERIOD DECREASE YOUR MILK SUPPLY? It is common to have a drop in supply at certain points in your cycle, often from mid-cycle to around the time of your period. It can also be less comfortable to nurse at this time. This is due to the hormonal changes and is only temporary.

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.

How to keep up milk supply during period?

4 Steps to take to boost breast milk volume during your period

1. Pump right before you to to sleep and after you’re breastfeeding your baby.
2. Take a calcium and magnesium supplement.
3. Eat oatmeal.
4. Use galactagogues to increase milk supply.

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.

How to increase milk supply while breastfeeding?

Increasing Your Milk Supply

1. Breastfeed every time your baby is hungry.
2. Make sure your baby is latching well.
3. Offer both breasts at each feeding.
4. Empty your breasts at each feeding.
5. Avoid bottles and pacifiers in the early weeks.
6. Get plenty of sleep, and eat a healthy diet.
7. Pump or express your milk.
8. Relax and massage.

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.

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.

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.

Can your period skip a month while breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding can suppress your period, depending on how frequently you are nursing. You may get a period while breastfeeding, and then not have another one for several months or more, particularly if your baby is nursing exclusively.