4 weeks PP breastfeeding and started my period! Worried about supply.
3 answers /
Last post: 20/03/2023 at 8:27 pm
I have had a bit of a journey with breastfeeding. Baby was in NICU so unfortunately I couldn’t try breastfeeding until 5 days after birth. I had no help with expressing when in hospital so it was overall a slow start. Once baby was out of NICU she wouldn’t latch, so it wasn’t until 2 weeks after birth with help from a lactation consultant (and nipple shields) we managed to get her breastfeeding. I had been pumping and topping up with formula once a day if I hadn’t pumped enough. Now she is 4 weeks and I’ve managed to get her mostly breastfeeding with her just having a bottle of expressed milk once or twice a day.
We’ve been really lucky, baby is now sleeping 4-5 hours straight. Meaning I’m not feeding between 12/1am and 5am/6am. Even then I’m waking her up to feed because my breasts are engorged. I reckon she would sleep until 7/8am if allowed as it’s happened before.
Anyway, today I’ve started getting cramps and spotting. I’ve read the fact baby is sleeping long hours this could lead to my period starting. I am just worried I’ve finally got my supply up that is now going to tank due to starting my period.
Has anyone had their period start soon after birth and been okay with continuing to breastfeed?
Hi Laurie,
We've moved your thread into our drop-in clinic - breastfeeding, so you can get the advice and support you need
Hello Laurie
Gosh, your story is inspiring Laurie! You have done so well to get to where you are.
I am sure other Mums reading how you got on will help them too if they are struggling.
It won't affect your milk supply if you start your periods. Many ladies breast feed for years after their periods return with no problems what-so-ever.
I hope this offers you the reassurance you need.
Best wishes
Tracey HV