What are the methods to delay menstruation during breastfeeding?

Many women have mixed feelings about menstruation. They worry if it doesn’t come, and they also worry if it is delayed. Many women worry about being pregnant or suffering from gynecological diseases when their menstruation is delayed, including some women who are breastfeeding. Breastfeeding is a very important period for both the baby and the mother. Is it normal to delay menstruation during breastfeeding?

Almost every woman will encounter the problem of delayed menstruation. When encountering this problem, they often suspect that they are pregnant or have some gynecological disease. Breastfeeding mothers are even more afraid of the impact on their babies. In fact, as long as you find out the reason, there is no need to panic about delayed menstruation. The menstrual cycle is 28 to 30 days. It is normal to have a period about ten days earlier or later, which varies from person to person. If it exceeds this time, there is no need to panic. Below we summarize some reasons for delayed menstruation during breastfeeding.

Delayed menstruation is often related to pregnancy, the effects of drugs, surgery or other factors. If menstruation is delayed only 1-2 times occasionally and there are no other accompanying symptoms, it does not fall into the category of menstrual disorders. When the interval between menstrual cycles is more than 35 days, it is called oligomenorrhea, and when menstruation stops for more than 3 menstrual cycles, it is called amenorrhea. The absence of ovulation after menopause can also lead to problems such as osteoporosis and endometrial hyperplasia, which must be taken seriously. It is recommended to go to the hospital for examination and treatment.

About 25% of breastfeeding mothers will resume ovulation and menstruation 12 weeks after delivery, and some will even have their period after their child is one month old. Most mothers will not fully recover their ovulation function until 18 weeks or even longer. The resumption of menstruation during breastfeeding does not mean that the mother has a poor physical condition or is unhealthy, nor does it mean that there is any problem with the quality of the milk. The mother's menstruation came just after the baby was 100 days old. Can she continue breastfeeding? The answer is yes. The mother's late menstrual period is also related to the late introduction of complementary foods to the baby. After menstruation, milk secretion becomes concentrated, especially breast milk after 8 to 10 months of breastfeeding, which mainly contains less fat and more protein. Although it cannot meet all the nutritional needs of the baby, this type of breast milk is not harmful to the baby.

Things to note for breastfeeding mothers after menstruation: monitor the baby's weight development and do not rush to wean the baby. If the amount of milk cannot meet the baby's needs, complementary foods can be added. During menstruation, mothers should drink more boiled water, eat more fish, milk, poultry, vegetables and vegetable soup, etc.; ensure adequate sleep, keep emotionally relaxed and mentally happy; increase the number of breastfeeding appropriately; both breasts should be sucked and emptied.

Delayed menstruation is becoming more and more common among women. Breastfeeding mothers are in the recovery stage and it is very important to pay more attention to their bodies. Don't panic when delayed menstruation occurs, but actively look for the cause. If you don't understand, consult a doctor in time.