Restoration of Menstruation After Childbirth During Breastfeeding 0 15

Menstruation after childbirth during breastfeeding usually resumes after the completion of feeding, which can take from 6 to 24 months. However, sometimes the cycle may begin to restore simultaneously with breastfeeding.

When Should Menstruation Resume?

During lactation, the hormone prolactin is produced in a woman's body, which blocks ovarian activity, preventing ovulation and the maturation of eggs. This is a natural process.

However, there are factors that can disrupt this process:

* Decrease in the frequency or duration of feedings.

* Transitioning the baby to mixed feeding.

* Introduction of complementary foods.

* Use of hormonal contraceptives.

* Stress, adverse environmental conditions, intoxication.

If this happens, there is no need to stop breastfeeding, as this is considered normal.

If severe pain or other health issues arise, it is recommended to consult a gynecologist. The restoration of the menstrual cycle can take 2–3 months or more, depending on individual characteristics of the body. It may change compared to what it was before childbirth, including duration, sensations, and heaviness of flow.

The Effect of Menstruation on Breast Milk

There is an opinion that the taste of breast milk may change with the onset of menstruation. Some breastfeeding mothers notice that their children become fussy and refuse the breast during feeding. However, there is no official confirmation of this, and the reasons for changes in the child's behavior may be different.

Nevertheless, the menstrual cycle may affect the amount of milk. Due to hormonal changes, less milk may be produced, and it may flow more slowly during sucking. This can cause anxiety in the infant during lactation, but the problem usually resolves itself if the baby continues to be regularly breastfed.

A breastfeeding mother may experience fatigue and drowsiness during menstruation, but this condition usually passes within 1–2 days. Premenstrual breast pain may occur during and after feeding, which can last until the onset of menstruation and in the first days of the cycle. The breasts may feel full, hard, and sensitive to touch.

Sometimes menstruation may not occur after breastfeeding is completed. However, one should not expect their immediate return; usually, 6–8 weeks should pass after the end of lactation.

If menstruation does not begin after this period, it is recommended to consult a gynecologist. Possible reasons may include hormonal disorders, diseases, or a new pregnancy, especially if contraception was not used during breastfeeding.