Will I lose my milk supply if I start my period?

Understanding the Impact of Menstruation on Milk Supply
For breastfeeding mothers, the return of menstruation can raise concerns about milk supply. Many wonder if starting their period will lead to a decrease in the amount of milk they can produce. The answer is nuanced, as hormonal fluctuations during the menstrual cycle can indeed affect milk supply, but the effects are often temporary.
Hormonal Changes and Milk Production
When a woman begins her period, her body undergoes significant hormonal changes. These fluctuations can lead to a temporary decrease in milk supply. Specifically, the drop in estrogen and progesterone levels just before menstruation can affect how much milk is produced. Many mothers report noticing a dip in their supply during the days leading up to their period, which can be distressing, especially if their baby seems fussier or less satisfied at the breast.
However, it’s important to note that this decrease is typically short-lived. Once menstruation begins, many women find that their milk supply stabilizes and may even return to normal levels as their hormones balance out. This means that while you might experience a dip in supply, it is not a permanent change.
Individual Experiences Vary
Every woman’s experience with breastfeeding and menstruation can differ significantly. Some mothers may not notice any change in their milk supply at all, while others might feel a marked difference. Factors such as the frequency of breastfeeding, overall health, and individual hormonal responses can all play a role in how menstruation affects milk production.
For instance, one mother shared her experience of a noticeable drop in milk supply after her period returned, leading her to worry about her ability to continue breastfeeding. This highlights the emotional and physical challenges that can accompany the return of menstruation for breastfeeding mothers.
Strategies to Manage Supply Changes
If you do notice a dip in your milk supply during your period, there are strategies you can employ to help maintain your supply. Staying hydrated, ensuring you are consuming enough calories, and continuing to breastfeed frequently can all support milk production. Some mothers also find that herbal supplements, such as Shatavari, can help boost their supply during this time.
Ultimately, while the return of your period can lead to temporary changes in milk supply, it is a normal part of the breastfeeding journey. Understanding these changes can help mothers navigate this phase with greater confidence and reassurance. If concerns persist, consulting with a lactation consultant or healthcare provider can provide additional support and guidance.

Can you be around a newborn on your period?

Since mom herself will be back on her period soon, there’s no valid, medically-proven reason that someone’s menstrual cycle would cause any harm to a newborn.

Do soft breasts mean low milk supply?

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.

Why has my milk supply dropped suddenly?

Your milk supply may drop briefly if you are very unwell. Some medicines can also affect your supply. You might like to discuss this with your doctor or pharmacist. Some mums find that too much alcohol, nicotine or caffeine may affect the way they make and release milk.

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 is my milk supply suddenly dropping?

Stress is the No. 1 killer of breastmilk supply, especially in the first few weeks after delivery. Between lack of sleep and adjusting to the baby’s schedule, rising levels of certain hormones such as cortisol can dramatically reduce your milk supply.

Does milk supply drop when on your period?

It’s essential to remember that temporary drops in breast milk supply during menstruation are normal for many mothers. However, if you find that your milk supply remains consistently low even after your period has ended, or if your baby shows signs of inadequate milk intake, it’s crucial to seek professional support.

Does starting your period affect your breast milk?

Will having periods affect my breast milk supply? The return of your periods should have little effect on your breast milk. So, you can continue to breastfeed if you would like to. Hormonal changes with your menstrual cycle (periods) may affect how your baby wants to feed.

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.

When is the hardest period of a baby?

Most people find the first six to eight weeks to be the hardest with a new born baby. And while people may not openly discuss many of the challenges in these early weeks of parenthood (if at all), there are a number of common hurdles you may face at this time.

Why did I get 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.