Depends on
breastfeeding, height weight, hormone changes, lifestyle factors, daily routine
and body condition.
Another is that you’ll have at
least nine months of freedom from your period. But after you deliver, you’re probably
curious about what will happen with your menstrual cycle.
When your period returns often
depends on whether or not you breastfeed. And just like your life after baby,
you might find your periods after pregnancy is
somewhat different.
Your period will typically return about six to eight weeks after you give birth, if you aren’t breastfeeding. If you do breastfeed, the timing for a period to return can vary. Those who practice exclusive breastfeeding might not have a period the entire time they breastfeed. “Exclusive breastfeeding” means that your baby is receiving only your breast milk. But for others, it might return after a couple of months, whether they’re breastfeeding or not.
Why don’t breastfeeding women get their periods as quickly?
Typically, women who are breastfeeding don’t get their periods as quickly because of the body’s hormones. Prolactin, the hormone needed to produce breast milk, can suppress reproductive hormones. As a result, you don’t ovulate or release an egg for fertilization. Without this process, you most likely won’t menstruate
Will my period affect my breast milk?
When your period does return, you
may notice some changes in your milk supply or your baby’s reaction to breast
milk. The hormonal changes that cause your body to have your period may also
influence your breast milk.
For instance, you might notice a decrease in your milk supply or a change in how often your baby wants to nurse. The hormone changes might also affect your breast milk’s composition and how it tastes to your baby. These changes are usually very minor, however, and shouldn’t affect your ability to breastfeed your baby.
From glowing skin to a newfound appreciation for your body, there are many things to love about pregnancy. Another is that you’ll have at least nine months of freedom from your period. But after you deliver, you’re probably curious what will happen with your menstrual cycle.
When your period returns often depends on whether or not you breastfeed. And just like your life after baby, you might find your periods after pregnancy are somewhat different. When will my period return?
Your period will typically return about six to eight weeks after you give birth, if you aren’t breastfeeding. If you do breastfeed, the timing for a period to return can vary. Those who practice exclusive breastfeeding might not have a period the entire time they breastfeed. “Exclusive breastfeeding” means that your baby is receiving only your breast milk. But for others, it might return after a couple of months, whether they’re breastfeeding or not.
What about birth
control?
Some
use breastfeeding as a natural birth control method. fewer than 1 out of 100 women will get pregnant annually if they’re engaging in
exclusive breastfeeding. Even though breastfeeding reduces your fertility, it’s
not an absolute guarantee you won’t get pregnant again.
The
key here is exclusive breastfeeding. Other than breast milk, no fluids or
solids are given to the baby with exclusive breastfeeding. Even water.
Supplements or vitamins don’t interfere and can be given to the baby.
Breastfeeding that doesn’t fit this description might not protect against
another pregnancy.
If
you’re breastfeeding and your period does return, you’re no longer protected
against getting pregnant. It’s also important to note that it can be difficult
to predict the return of fertility. You will ovulate before your period starts,
so it’s entirely possible to get pregnant again before your period returns.
Safe and effective birth control methods are available for those who are breastfeeding. Nonhormonal options such as the copper intrauterine device IUD , condoms, and diaphragms are always safe for breastfeeding.
How might my period be different postpartum?
When
you do start your period again, chances are the first period after delivery
won’t be like your periods before you got pregnant. Your body is once again
adjusting to menstruation. You may experience some of the following differences:
- cramping that might be stronger or lighter than
usual
- small blood clots
- heavier flow
- flow that seems to stop and start
- increased pain
- irregular cycle lengths
The takeaway
A return to your menstrual cycle
is just one of the parts of recovery and returning to your prepregnancy body.
In some, menstruation may be delayed due to the hormone increases associated
with breastfeeding.
Breastfeeding as a form of
contraception isn’t foolproof. Having a backup method, such as oral
contraception or a condom, can help provide further protection.