It is common for women to not get their periods while exclusively breastfeeding. For some women this can last for months, or even years. However, there is no definite answer for how long you can go without a period while breastfeeding since every woman’s body is different.
Quick Answers
– Many women do not get periods for the first 6 months while exclusively breastfeeding.
– It is possible to go without a period for up to 2 years while breastfeeding.
– On average, menstruation returns between 9 and 15 months postpartum in women who are breastfeeding.
– The frequency and duration of breastfeeding impacts when periods return. More frequent nursing delays the return.
– Supplementing with formula or introducing solid foods may cause periods to return sooner.
Why Does Breastfeeding Delay the Return of Your Period?
Breastfeeding delays the return of menstruation through the combined effects of two hormones: prolactin and oxytocin. Here’s how it works:
- Prolactin – Prolactin levels remain elevated while breastfeeding frequently to produce breastmilk. High prolactin suppresses ovulation.
- Oxytocin – Released during breastfeeding, oxytocin prevents the normal cycling of reproductive hormones.
As long as prolactin and oxytocin levels remain high, the body is less likely to ovulate or menstruate. Frequent breastfeeding maintains high levels of these hormones.
Factors That Impact When Periods Return
While breastfeeding can delay menstruation for many months or years for some women, several factors impact when periods return while breastfeeding:
How Often You Breastfeed
The more often you breastfeed, the longer amenorrhea will likely last. Women who exclusively breastfeed on demand both day and night tend to get periods later than those who breastfeed less frequently or restrict night feedings.
Breastfeeding Exclusively
Exclusive breastfeeding with no formula supplementation is associated with later return of menses. Introducing formula or solid foods can decrease prolactin/oxytocin levels and lead to earlier periods.
Baby’s Age
As babies get older they tend to breastfeed less frequently, which leads to dropping hormone levels. Many women get periods back around the time their baby starts eating solid foods regularly.
Mother’s Body
The time it takes to get a period varies significantly among women. Some bodies are very sensitive to the hormonal effects of breastfeeding, while others are not. Personal health history impacts this too.
What to Expect with the Return of Periods
Here’s what you can expect with that first postpartum period while breastfeeding:
- It may take time to regulate – You might not get regular cycles right away. It’s common to have irregular, sporadic periods at first.
- Periods might be lighter – Lower estrogen levels can lead to lighter periods compared to your normal flow.
- Cramps might increase – Some women report increased cramping with that first period after months without menstruation.
- Fertility returns – You can get pregnant again even while breastfeeding and before getting your period back.
While annoying, getting your period is a sign that your body is returning to normal hormonal fluctuations. Unless you are tracking ovulation, it is best to use contraception even while breastfeeding if you want to prevent pregnancy.
Tips for Dealing with Periods While Breastfeeding
Here are some tips to manage getting your period while breastfeeding:
- Use pads rather than tampons to avoid toxic shock syndrome
- Take ibuprofen to reduce cramping
- Apply a heating pad to ease abdominal discomfort
- Get plenty of rest
- Stay hydrated by drinking extra fluids
- Consider supplementation if periods impact your milk supply
The return of your menstrual cycle does not mean you have to stop breastfeeding. You can continue nursing your baby for as long as you desire. Some minor adjustments like getting extra rest, drinking more fluids, and taking cramp relief medication can help you handle getting your period while breastfeeding.
When to Seek Medical Care
While breastfeeding typically delays the return of your menstrual cycle, it’s a good idea to follow up with your healthcare provider if:
- Your period has not returned by 12-15 months after giving birth
- You are experiencing period-related problems like heavy bleeding, severe cramps, or irregular cycles
- You think you might be pregnant again
Most of the time, not getting a period while breastfeeding is completely normal. However, your healthcare provider can check for any potential issues and offer solutions to manage any period-related problems.
The Impact of Periods on Breastmilk
Getting your first postpartum period while breastfeeding causes no harm to your breastmilk or your baby. Here are some key points:
- Nutrient content of breastmilk does not change
- No link found between period blood in milk and colic in infants
- No need to pump and dump milk when on your period
- Blood in milk very rare – milk supply might dip temporarily
You can safely continue breastfeeding your baby while on your period without interruption. Any dip in milk supply is temporary. Make sure to drink plenty of fluids and get extra rest.
Composition of Breastmilk During Periods
| Nutrient | Menstruation | Normal |
|---|---|---|
| Protein | 1.0 g/dL | 0.9-1.2 g/dL |
| Fat | 3.5 g/dL | 3.2-3.6 g/dL |
| Carbohydrates | 7.1 g/dL | 6.7-7.8 g/dL |
| Calories | 65 kcal/dL | 60-70 kcal/dL |
As this table demonstrates, the macronutrient composition of breastmilk does not change significantly during menstruation.
Common Concerns about Periods and Breastfeeding
Does period blood transfer to breastmilk?
Very minimal blood from your period makes it into breastmilk, usually not enough to be visible. Even if you see a tinge of pink or red, the milk is safe for your baby to drink.
Do periods while breastfeeding cause fussiness?
There is no evidence linking period blood in milk to increased fussiness or colic in breastfed babies. Any fussiness is likely coincidental.
Should you pump and dump during your period?
Pumping and dumping milk is not necessary just because you are on your period. Your breastmilk does not become contaminated or harmful to your baby.
Conclusion
It’s common and normal not to get your periods for an extended time while exclusively breastfeeding. Breast milk contains hormones that can safely suppress menstruation and ovulation even for months or years. On average, periods return between 9 and 15 months postpartum in nursing mothers. However, the timing varies greatly among women based on breastfeeding frequency, exclusivity, baby’s age, and personal factors. While annoying, getting your first postpartum period is a sign your body is returning to normal function. You can keep breastfeeding your baby while managing any discomfort associated with your period.