Breastfeeding isn't always easy for moms, especially when they notice a lower milk supply during their menstrual period. Whether you're just starting to breastfeed or you've been doing it for some time, knowing how your period can affect your milk production can help you handle this natural part of motherhood more easily.
When Will My Period Return During Breastfeeding?
When breastfeeding, the timing of your period coming back can be very different for each woman. It depends on a few things, such as:
Frequency of Breastfeeding
If you breastfeed or pump more often, it may take longer for your period to come back. When you exclusively breastfeed, it usually delays the return of your menstrual cycle.
Age of the Baby
For many moms, their period tends to return around six months after giving birth, especially when they start introducing solid foods and breastfeeding less often.
Individual Hormonal Changes
Every woman's body reacts differently to hormonal changes. Some may get their periods back as early as six weeks after giving birth, while others might not see them for a year or more.
Does Milk Supply Decrease During My Period?
Yes, if your period has returned while you are breastfeeding, you might experience a temporary decrease in milk supply around the time of your period. But don't worry; it is common to have a drop in supply at certain points in your cycle, often from mid-cycle to around the time of your period.
Why Does Milk Supply Decrease During My Period?
So what could be the reason for low milk supply while on period? Several factors contribute to the drop in milk supply during menstruation:
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Hormonal Changes: Prolactin is the hormone essential for making milk, and its levels change throughout your menstrual cycle. Right before and during your period, estrogen levels go up a lot. This rise in estrogen can affect how well prolactin does its job, which may lead to a temporary decrease in milk supply.
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Fluid Retention: During your period, many women feel bloated and may retain water because of hormonal changes. This can make you feel full, but it might also hide the need to stay properly hydrated. If you don't drink enough water during this time, it could lead to dehydration, which might lower your milk production.
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Stress Levels: Emotional stress and physical discomfort from your period can increase cortisol levels in your body. High levels of cortisol can negatively affect your milk supply. To help manage this stress, consider trying deep breathing exercises, light exercise, or chatting with friends and family for support. These simple activities can lower cortisol levels and boost milk production.
How to Increase or Maintain Your Milk Supply During Your Period
If you're experiencing a dip in milk supply during your period, it's helpful to know that there are ways to support and maintain your milk production. Here are some strategies to consider:
1. Power Pumping
Power pumping is a great way to mimic cluster feeding and can help boost your milk supply. To do this, pump for 20 minutes, then take a 10-minute break, and pump again for another 10 minutes. Repeat this cycle for an hour. This method encourages your body to produce more milk. If you're looking for an efficient way to power pump, consider using the Momcozy M9. This electric, wearable, hands-free pump allows you to move freely while you pump. A powerful 300mmHg suction ensures efficient milk extraction and maximum milk flow, allowing you to achieve more in less time. You can control it through an app, which lets you easily switch between different pumping settings to customize your experience.
2. Frequent Milk Removal
Breastfeeding or pumping more often can help tell your body to produce more milk. Try to feed or pump every two to three hours, especially during your period. This extra stimulation can support your milk supply.
3. Calcium/Magnesium Supplement
Calcium and magnesium are important minerals that help with muscle contraction and relaxation, including the muscles in your breasts. Having enough of these minerals may reduce discomfort and support better milk flow. To get the ideal dosage for you, consult your healthcare professional.
4. Stay Hydrated
Drink plenty of water throughout the day. During menstruation, your body's fluid balance can be affected, so increasing your water intake can help replenish fluids and support milk production.
5. Nutritional Support
Focus on a balanced diet filled with whole grains, lean proteins, fruits, and vegetables. Foods like oats, fenugreek, and barley are considered lactogenic, meaning they may help boost your milk supply.
6. Rest and Relaxation
Make it a priority to rest whenever you can, and try relaxation techniques like deep breathing or yoga. These techniques can assist in lowering cortisol levels and stress levels in your body, which in turn can support the maintenance of your milk supply.
7. Skin-to-Skin Contact
Spending more time in skin-to-skin contact with your baby—through cuddling, hugging, and kissing—can help strengthen your bond and stimulate the release of oxytocin, which encourages milk production.
8. Seek Support
Talking to other moms who are nursing or seeking advice from a lactation consultant also offers support and useful advice for sustaining your milk supply.
FAQs About Breast Milk Supply Drop During Period
1. Does Milk Supply Drop Before My Period?
Many women report a slight decrease in milk supply a few days prior to their period due to hormonal changes. Staying aware of this pattern can help you prepare.
2. Does Milk Supply Drop After My Period?
Generally, milk supply stabilizes and might even increase after your period ends as your hormones go back to normal. However, every woman's experience is different, so it's good to pay attention to how your body responds.
3. Why Did I Get My Period If I'm Breastfeeding?
You might get your period while breastfeeding because your body doesn't produce as many hormones, like prolactin, that usually prevent ovulation. Other factors, such as how often you breastfeed, your baby's age, and your individual hormone levels, can all affect when your period returns.
Take Action Against Milk Supply Drop During Your Period
It can be difficult to breastfeed while managing your menstrual cycle. If you know why your milk supply could fluctuate and use techniques, it will be simpler to make adjustments to keep the milk supply constant. Please do not hesitate to contact lactation experts or medical specialists for personalized advice. With patience and support, you can continue to care for your child during your period and control your milk supply!
