When to expect the first menstrual period after giving birth? Whether you had a natural childbirth or a caesarean section, it may take some time before you get your period again. There are several factors that affect this. In this blog, we tell you more about them!
Things to consider about your first menstrual period after giving birth
After giving birth, your body starts an intensive recovery period. During this time, your uterus and hormones recover, which affects your menstrual cycle. The first menstrual period after giving birth varies from person to person and depends on the following factors.
7 important factors that affect the first menstrual period after giving birth
- Breastfeeding: Breastfeeding plays a big role when we talk about the return of your first menstrual period after childbirth. The hormone prolactin, which is responsible for milk production, suppresses ovulation. The more often you breastfeed, the higher your prolactin levels and the longer it can take for your period to return. Mothers who are fully breastfeeding can often wait six months to a year before their periods return.
- Type of delivery: The type of delivery can affect the timing of your first period. With a caesarean section, the first menstruation may occur slightly later because of the longer recovery period from the operation. Nevertheless, on average, if you are not breastfeeding, you can expect your first period six to eight weeks after delivery. The body needs time to heal and adapt after childbirth, regardless of the method.
- Hormonal changes: After childbirth, a lot of hormonal changes take place in your body. During pregnancy, hormones like oestrogen and progesterone are at their peak. After giving birth, these hormone levels drop rapidly, affecting your menstrual cycle. It may take several months before your hormonal balance is restored and your cycle returns to normal. These hormonal fluctuations are the body’s natural response to childbirth and play a major role in resuming your menstrual cycle.
- Physical recovery: The recovery period after childbirth varies from woman to woman. Factors such as your general health, the course of childbirth, and whether you had complications can all affect how quickly your body recovers and when you start your period again. A healthy lifestyle, adequate rest, and good nutrition can contribute to a faster recovery. It is important to listen to your body and give it the time it needs to heal.
- Stress and lifestyle: The arrival of a baby can be stressful, which can affect your hormones and cycle. Try to incorporate moments of rest and take good care of yourself. Yoga, meditation, and adequate sleep can help balance your body and mind. Reducing stress can have a positive impact on the return of your periods.
- Contraception: Using hormonal contraception after childbirth can also affect the return of your periods. Some forms of contraception, such as the pill, IUDs or implants, can delay or alter menstruation. Discuss with your doctor which contraceptive methods are suitable for your situation and how they may affect your menstrual cycle.
- Individual differences: Every woman is different, and genetic factors can play a role in how quickly the menstrual cycle resumes. Some women find that their periods return quickly, while others may take longer. This often depends on individual physical and genetic factors.
The first menstrual period after giving birth may be different from what you are used to. It may be more intense or lighter, and the duration may vary. This is perfectly normal as your body is still recovering. Some women experience cramps or other discomforts they didn’t have before. Give your body time!
Menstrual cup after childbirth
After giving birth, a menstrual cup can be a convenient choice. However, we don’t recommend using the cup right away, as your body is still recovering and this may cause you to leak. When you can use the cup again varies from woman to woman. Our Beppy menstrual cup offer long-term protection and produce less waste than tampons or sanitary pads. Especially after childbirth, when your menstrual cycle starts up again, the cup can be very practical because of its ease of use and comfort.
Do you have any questions about our products? Then feel free to contact us!
