Will my milk supply drop when I get my period?

Understanding the Impact of Menstruation on Milk Supply
For breastfeeding mothers, the return of menstruation can raise questions about its effects on milk supply. Many women wonder if their milk production will decrease when they get their period, and the answer is nuanced, influenced by hormonal changes and individual circumstances.
Hormonal Fluctuations and Milk Supply
When menstruation resumes, hormonal shifts occur in the body, particularly involving estrogen and progesterone. These changes can lead to a temporary drop in breast milk supply for some women. Research indicates that as your period approaches, blood calcium levels may decrease, which can directly impact milk production . This drop in supply is often short-lived, typically lasting only a few days, aligning with the onset of menstruation.
Individual Variability
It’s important to note that not all breastfeeding mothers will experience a significant decrease in milk supply during their periods. Factors such as the frequency of breastfeeding, overall health, and individual hormonal responses play a crucial role. Some mothers may not notice any change at all, while others might find their supply diminishes noticeably.
Managing Milk Supply During Menstruation
For those who do experience a drop in supply, there are strategies to help mitigate the effects. Staying hydrated is essential, as increased fluid intake can support milk production. Additionally, some mothers find that taking calcium and magnesium supplements can help maintain their milk supply during this time. Engaging in relaxation techniques, such as meditation or gentle exercise, can also be beneficial in managing stress, which may further support milk production.
Conclusion
In summary, while many breastfeeding mothers may experience a temporary decrease in milk supply when their period returns, this is not universal. Understanding the hormonal changes at play and employing strategies to support milk production can help mothers navigate this phase. If concerns about milk supply persist, consulting with a healthcare provider or lactation consultant can provide personalized guidance and support.

What happens if you start your period but breastfeeding?

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. This may affect your breast milk supply.

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.

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 is the 3 month breastfeeding crisis?

As you may have read in my other blog about a baby’s breastfeeding crisis, a breastfeeding crisis, sometimes called a growth spurt, is a common phrase used to describe a phase where mothers may encounter significant breastfeeding challenges, typically related to an increase in milk demand from the 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.

Can your period affect your milk supply?

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.

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.

How fertile are you after having a baby?

You can get pregnant 3 weeks after the birth of a baby, including if you’re breastfeeding and your periods haven’t started again. You need to use contraception every time you have sex after giving birth unless you want to get pregnant again. Your midwife will discuss contraception with you after your baby is born.

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.