Postpartum Menstrual Irregularities: Causes and Concerns Explained

Q: Postpartum Menstrual Irregularities: Causes and Concerns Explained

Hello Miss Hsiao： Continuous lactation can indeed affect ovulation, which in turn impacts the menstrual cycle. <br>If you do not wish to breastfeed, it is advisable to consider medication to suppress lactation, and your menstrual cycle will gradually return to normal.

Postpartum Menstrual Issues

Hello Doctor: I gave birth at the end of February, and my lochia was completely discharged by the end of March.
After that, my menstrual cycle resumed in April and has been regular until July.
However, now in August, my period was due on the 12th, and it is now the 21st, but I still haven't gotten it.
I have been experiencing a feeling of abdominal discomfort.
I am not breastfeeding, but I have not weaned completely.
I would like to ask if the irregularity in my menstrual cycle could be due to not having fully weaned?

Ms. Hsiao, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/08/21

Dr. Huang Yiwen reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello Miss Hsiao: Continuous lactation can indeed affect ovulation, which in turn impacts the menstrual cycle.
If you do not wish to breastfeed, it is advisable to consider medication to suppress lactation, and your menstrual cycle will gradually return to normal.

Reply Date: 2016/08/21

More Info

Postpartum menstrual irregularities can be a common concern for many women after childbirth. The hormonal changes that occur during and after pregnancy can significantly affect the menstrual cycle. In your case, it seems that you experienced a regular menstrual cycle from April to July, but now in August, you are facing a delay in your period along with abdominal discomfort.

1. Hormonal Changes: After giving birth, your body undergoes various hormonal adjustments. The levels of hormones such as estrogen and progesterone fluctuate as your body transitions back to its pre-pregnancy state. If you are not breastfeeding, your menstrual cycle may return more quickly, but if you are still producing milk, even if you are not actively breastfeeding, this can delay the return of your menstrual cycle. Prolactin, the hormone responsible for milk production, can inhibit ovulation, leading to irregularities in your menstrual cycle.

2. Ovulation: It is also important to consider whether you have ovulated this month. If ovulation has not occurred, your period will not come. The abdominal discomfort you are experiencing could be related to ovulation or other factors such as hormonal imbalances or even stress.

3. Other Factors: Other potential causes for menstrual irregularities include stress, changes in weight, underlying medical conditions, or even the onset of conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). If you have experienced significant stress or changes in your lifestyle, these could also contribute to your irregular cycle.

4. Pregnancy Consideration: Given that you have had a recent childbirth, it is also essential to rule out the possibility of pregnancy, especially if you have had unprotected intercourse since your last period. A home pregnancy test can help clarify this.

5. Medical Evaluation: If your period does not arrive soon or if the abdominal pain persists or worsens, it is advisable to consult with a healthcare provider. They may recommend a pelvic examination, blood tests to check hormone levels, or an ultrasound to assess your reproductive organs. This will help rule out any underlying issues such as ovarian cysts or other abnormalities.

In summary, while postpartum menstrual irregularities can be common due to hormonal changes, it is essential to monitor your symptoms closely. If the delay in your period continues or if you have concerns about your abdominal pain, seeking medical advice would be the best course of action. Your healthcare provider can offer personalized insights and potential treatment options based on a thorough evaluation of your situation.

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