Menstrual Cycle Resumption After Breastfeeding

Menstruation

After stopping breastfeeding for about six months, how long will it take for menstruation to return? During the breastfeeding phase, there was not much discharge, but after stopping breastfeeding, the discharge has increased significantly.
Sometimes there is also itching.

Kai Ma, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2009/05/19

Dr. Chen Changfu reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

After stopping breastfeeding, the levels of prolactin in the body begin to decrease.
Once they return to normal, the ovaries start to ovulate, and most women will experience menstruation approximately one month later.
During the ovulation period, there may be an increase in clear vaginal discharge, which can lead to irritation and itching of the vulva.

Reply Date: 2009/05/19

More Info

After breastfeeding, the resumption of the menstrual cycle can vary significantly from one woman to another. Generally, if a woman breastfeeds exclusively, her menstrual cycle may take longer to resume. This is largely due to the hormonal changes that occur during breastfeeding, particularly the elevated levels of prolactin, which suppress ovulation.
For women who breastfeed for about six months and then stop, it is common for menstruation to return within a few weeks to a few months. However, some women may experience a delay of several months before their periods resume. Factors that can influence this timeline include individual hormonal balance, the frequency and duration of breastfeeding sessions, and overall health.

Regarding the changes in discharge you mentioned, it is not uncommon for women to experience increased vaginal discharge after stopping breastfeeding. This can be attributed to hormonal fluctuations as the body adjusts back to its non-pregnant state. The increase in discharge can sometimes be accompanied by itching, which may be due to several reasons, including hormonal changes, yeast infections, or other forms of vaginitis. If the itching persists or is accompanied by unusual symptoms such as a strong odor or abnormal color of the discharge, it is advisable to consult a healthcare provider for further evaluation.

In summary, while many women may see their menstrual cycles resume within a few weeks to a few months after stopping breastfeeding, individual experiences can vary widely. If there are concerns about discharge or any other symptoms, seeking medical advice is always a good practice to ensure that everything is normal and to address any potential issues.

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