You’ve just experienced one of the most incredible moments of your life: the birth of your baby. As you adjust to this new reality, one question may be on your mind… When will your period return? The return of menstruation, or the resumption of menstrual cycles after giving birth, is an important but often overlooked topic. Whether you’re breastfeeding or not, understanding the return of menstruation will help you better understand the changes in your body postpartum. In this article, we’ll explain in detail what the return of menstruation is, how it’s affected by breastfeeding, and answer some of the most frequently asked questions on the subject. Grab a coffee, get comfortable, and let’s go!
What is the return of periods?
The return of menstruation is the arrival of the first menstrual period after giving birth. At the time, the term "menstruation" referred to childbirth and the period that follows it. "Return of menstruation" therefore literally means the return to a regular menstrual phase after the birth of your child.
Be careful not to confuse it with lochia, the blood loss that occurs in the first few days after your baby is born. Lochia, which comes from the placental wound (where the placenta was implanted in the uterus), lasts about two weeks and becomes less and less abundant. Its appearance changes over the days: first red and bloody, it becomes pinkish, then brownish.
Once the lochia is over, a new phase of bleeding begins. Caused by the hormonal drop, it is called "small return of menstruation", and it can last approximately one month.
Finally, several weeks after giving birth and after the end of lochia, the body returns to its usual hormonal levels. It begins to secrete estrogen and progesterone again. This hormonal return triggers the reappearance of menstrual cycles… And this is what we call the return of menstruation!
Be aware that these first periods after childbirth are often heavier and longer than usual periods. Don't panic: their volume then gradually decreases over the cycles.
When do periods return when breastfeeding?
In a young breastfeeding mother
Young mothers who breastfeed can see their return of menstruation considerably delayed. And breastfeeding has a lot to do with it! Because in this case, the body produces a high level of prolactin, a hormone that inhibits ovulation. So most of the time, as long as breastfeeding is exclusive and frequent, periods may not return for several months.
Some mothers may even notice this absence of periods for the entire duration of exclusive breastfeeding. Generally, until diversification or the transition to mixed breastfeeding, with the integration of milk bottles. But of course, let's not forget that this period varies enormously from one woman to another.
So, even with full breastfeeding, some mothers may experience an early return of menstruation. While for others, it may take longer. However, it is generally found that once breastfeeding is finished, periods return after six to eight weeks.
Are you planning to breastfeed your baby? Discover the wise advice from Health Insurance to make breastfeeding easier .
In a new mother who is not breastfeeding
For a new mother who is not breastfeeding, the return of menstruation often occurs more quickly. Without the inhibitory effect of prolactin on ovulation, the body returns to its normal menstrual cycles sooner. On average, the first period appears between six and eight weeks after giving birth.
However (and as usual), this period can vary depending on many different factors: the mother's state of health, her postpartum hormonal balance... On the other hand, as for breastfeeding mothers, the first menstruation can be more abundant and last longer than normal. But this regularizes over time.
In any case, doctors recommend avoiding tampons during the first few cycles to minimize the risk of infection, especially if you have had an episiotomy.
Return of menstruation and breastfeeding: frequently asked questions
Does breastfeeding delay the return of menstruation?
Yes, breastfeeding can delay the return of menstruation. This is due to prolactin, the hormone responsible for the production of breast milk, because it inhibits ovulation. So, as long as you are fully breastfeeding, your body maintains high levels of prolactin. This can delay the resumption of your menstrual cycle . Each woman experiences this differently: it can last a few months, or more than a year.
This late return of menstruation is often used as a natural method of contraception called "LAM" (breastfeeding and amenorrhea). This can be more or less effective during the first six months after giving birth. However, if you do not want to take the risk of becoming pregnant again... We advise you to take precautions during sexual intercourse, because the absence of periods is not always the equivalent of the absence of ovulation!
Is it possible to have periods while breastfeeding?
Yes, it is possible to have a return of menstruation while breastfeeding. Because even though exclusive breastfeeding can delay the return of menstruation, some breastfeeding women will still see their periods return. It depends:
- of each person's sensitivity to hormones;
- the number of feedings per day.
For example, if the baby begins to space out breastfeeding sessions, or to sleep longer at night, this can reduce prolactin levels and allow the menstrual cycle to resume.
Can you continue breastfeeding after your period returns?
Of course! Breastfeeding and menstruation are completely compatible, and you can continue to breastfeed even after your period returns. Because it does not affect the quality of breast milk at all. Some mothers notice that their baby is a little more agitated during feedings a few days before their period. This is explained by hormonal changes that can slightly change the taste of the milk.
However, these effects are temporary, and you don't need to stop breastfeeding. Quite the opposite: you are encouraged to continue breastfeeding as much as you and your baby want. Even after your period returns.
Pssst… If you’re looking for a little boost to feel your best after giving birth, our postpartum products should be just what you need!
Does the return of menstruation decrease lactation?
The return of menstruation can sometimes cause a slight temporary decrease in milk supply. This is due to hormonal fluctuations that, during the menstrual cycle, can affect milk production. Especially right before and during your period. For example, you may notice that your breasts are less full or that your baby seems to want to nurse more often. But don't worry: this decrease does not last, and milk production returns to normal after a few days.
The best things to do to maintain good lactation:
- hydrate well;
- continue to breastfeed frequently;
- and have fun doing it.
However, if you have any concerns, do not hesitate to seek the advice of a lactation consultant, your midwife or your doctor.
So remember that the return of menstruation is a natural process that varies from woman to woman and can be influenced by breastfeeding. Although it can cause temporary changes in lactation and the menstrual cycle, it usually has no negative impact on breastfeeding.
