“When will my period return? », “Will it hurt? » These are the questions you are probably asking yourself if you are pregnant or have just given birth. And that's quite normal. Because we know that the cycles will resume, but neither when nor how. Don't worry, we've got you covered! In this article, we tell you everything about returning from diapers, to prepare you to go through this natural stage with complete confidence. Let's go !
What is diaper return?
The return of diapers is a slightly strange name for the reappearance of your period after giving birth. The uterus then returns to its normal state, and your cycles... slowly resume!
What are the symptoms of diaper reversal?
We tend to confuse the return of diapers with the first postpartum period, because its symptoms resemble those of normal menstruation. However, young mothers can recognize it by the fact that it is more intense than their usual periods, in particular because:
- excessive bleeding;
- severe abdominal cramps.
The return of diapers can also lead to a significant drop in hormones and cause:
- mood changes;
- breast tenderness.
It also often happens that the continuation of childbirth is confused with lochia. How to differentiate between rebirth and lochia? Recognized by its red, heavy bleeding immediately after birth, lochia gradually subsides over a period of up to six weeks. The return of confinement really marks the resumption of ovulatory cycles. It also comes in the form of bleeding... but it announces the return of periods!
When does it arrive?
If predicting the return of diapers were as simple as predicting the weather, it would make our lives easier! But as is often the case, it depends on several factors and varies greatly from one new mother to another.
For those who have not started breastfeeding, the return of diaper usually occurs between 6 to 8 weeks after the birth of the baby. Breastfeeding stimulates the production of prolactin, a hormone that can suppress ovulation and thus delay the return of labor. If we don't make one, logic: the menstrual cycle returns more quickly.
On the other hand, exclusive breastfeeding can delay the return of diapers. The body produces a large amount of prolactin, which therefore suppresses ovulation. We can even notice a reappearance of periods several months after childbirth or after weaning the child.
As for women who have had a cesarean section, the arrival of periods can sometimes be a little earlier than for a vaginal birth. Since the placenta is removed directly during the operation, the body does not need to expel it itself. The uterus heals more quickly and the return of labor is faster.
When should you worry if it doesn't arrive?
Rest assured: the absence of periods postpartum is entirely possible and happens frequently. Did you give birth/finished breastfeeding more than three months ago? Did you have a negative pregnancy test? So, try to consult a health professional. This will allow you to assess the situation, make a diagnosis or reassure yourself!
How long does it last?
Again...it's all about individual factors! Breastfeeding, general health... The duration of postpartum can also vary from one woman to another. But usually, these periods last as long as a normal period, about four to seven days. However, it is common for the first menstrual cycles after childbirth to be irregular or longer. But with time, I promise: everything will return to normal. The body readjusts itself, the duration and intensity of a cycle regulates itself, until it becomes normal again.
Do you have any doubts about the length of your menstrual cycle? To find out for sure, discover our article “ How to calculate your menstrual cycle? ”
How to cope well with your return to childbirth?
To help you experience it as best as possible, we answer your most frequently asked questions on the subject.
What hygienic protection to wear after pregnancy?
After giving birth, you may bleed quite heavily. Nothing more normal ! To avoid unpleasant surprises and discomfort, we advise you to choose highly absorbent sanitary napkins, like those you can find in the Mamacitas postpartum kits . When the bleeding is a little less heavy, you can switch to period panties. But no more tampons and menstrual cups for the first weeks after birth. Too much risk of infection!
What are the risks of getting pregnant before giving birth?
According to the High Authority of Health , there is no resumption of ovulation before the 21st day following childbirth. After the 21st day, however, the risk of pregnancy exists... And it is not negligible. Because it is possible to experience a return of confinement without ovulating, but also to become pregnant before these continuations of confinement. In other words, ovulation can occur before the first menstrual period resumes.
Abnormalities can also persist in the first six menstrual cycles after delivery, which can be characterized by:
- anovulatory cycles;
- longer cycles than before;
- irregularities;
- a shorter high temperature phase, among others.
Also note that the later the return of labour, the more likely it is that a “fertile” ovulation will occur before this return. So if you're not really up for a surprise baby... Remember to protect yourself!
Pssst... Do you want to give your body the boost it deserves when your baby arrives? Our postpartum products are made for you!
When to resume contraception after childbirth?
You will probably be prescribed a microprogestin pill (= with a single hormone, progestin, in a very small quantity) when you leave the maternity ward, which you can take again several weeks after giving birth. But listen to yourself, and choose the method of contraception that suits you, when it suits you. Especially if you want to resume sexual intercourse, but avoid another pregnancy. Otherwise, no pressure at that level.
What is the menstrual cycle like after going back to bed?
Again... It's the lottery! Each woman experiences a cycle that is unique to her when she returns from childbirth. The first periods may therefore be irregular, longer, or shorter than before. But also more abundant, or lighter!
Myths to bust around returning from diapers
Even today, many myths revolve around the aftermath of childbirth. That’s good, we’re here to clarify them!
The most common is to think that breastfeeding remains a reliable method of contraception... Spoiler alert: this is false! Although it can delay the return of menstruation, be aware that early ovulation can still result in pregnancy.
Conversely, the return of childbirth does not always indicate the return of your fertility. Each woman sees her body react differently, and becomes fertile again... At her own pace.
Finally, we tell you again: the symptoms of returning from diapers are not the same for everyone. They vary from one mother to another in terms of intensity and duration of bleeding.
In any case, returning to diapers remains a natural postpartum stage. By understanding how it manifests itself, and to what extent it can vary, you will be able to experience this transition period more peacefully!
