your first period after pregnancy: what to expect

Bringing a baby into the world is an incredible journey, but your body goes through significant changes during and after pregnancy. One of the biggest shifts is the return of your period. When will it come back? Will it be different? How does breastfeeding impact it? Let's break it all down.

• When will my period return after birth?
• Postpartum bleeding vs. your first period
• Breastfeeding and your period
• Changes in your postpartum period
• Can you get pregnant before your first postpartum period?
• Safe birth control options after pregnancy
• Why is my first period after pregnancy so heavy?

when will my period return after birth? (timing for breastfeeding & non-breastfeeding mums)

The timing of your first postpartum period depends on several factors. If you’re not breastfeeding, your period may return as early as 6-8 weeks after giving birth. However, if you're exclusively breastfeeding, it could take months—or even over a year—before menstruation resumes. This delay happens because breastfeeding increases prolactin levels, which suppress ovulation. Every woman’s body is different, so there’s no universal timeline.

Tracking your symptoms and using ovulation predictor kits can help you understand when your fertility may return. If you want to manage your period comfortably when it does return, using a menstrual disc, like the ones offered by my mimi, can be a great option. They provide leak-free protection and can be worn for up to 12 hours, making them ideal for busy new mums.

postpartum bleeding vs. your first period: what’s the difference?

It’s important to distinguish between postpartum bleeding (lochia) and your actual period. Lochia begins immediately after childbirth as your uterus sheds leftover pregnancy tissue. It starts out heavy and bright red, gradually lightening in colour and flow over 6-8 weeks. Your first postpartum period, on the other hand, is a true menstrual cycle and will likely arrive once your hormones stabilise.

Lochia does not involve ovulation, whereas your postpartum period signals that your body is returning to a normal reproductive cycle. If you are looking for a comfortable, eco-friendly option to manage postpartum bleeding and menstruation, consider using a menstrual disc like those from my mimi. They can provide superior comfort compared to pads or tampons.

breastfeeding and your period: how nursing affects menstruation

Breastfeeding plays a huge role in delaying your period. The more frequently you nurse, the more prolactin your body produces, which suppresses ovulation. However, this isn’t foolproof. Some women get their period back even while exclusively breastfeeding, while others don’t menstruate until they fully wean their baby.

If your period returns while breastfeeding, it may temporarily reduce your milk supply due to hormonal fluctuations. Some mums also notice that their babies are fussier around nursing time when their period returns, possibly due to changes in milk taste and flow.

For those who want a mess-free way to manage their period while breastfeeding, menstrual discs from my mimi are a great option. Unlike tampons, they don’t absorb vaginal moisture, which helps maintain comfort during breastfeeding-related hormonal changes.

changes in your postpartum period: heavier flow, irregular cycles & more

Your first few postpartum periods might not be the same as before pregnancy. You may experience:

• Heavier or lighter bleeding as your body adjusts to its new normal
• More intense cramping due to uterine contractions
• Blood clots caused by the shedding of thicker uterine lining
• Irregular cycle lengths while your hormones rebalance
• Increased pain compared to pre-pregnancy periods

These changes are usually temporary, but keeping track of your cycle can help identify any ongoing irregularities. Switching to a menstrual disc, such as those from my mimi, can provide comfort and flexibility during this adjustment period.

can you get pregnant before your first postpartum period? (understanding ovulation after birth)

Yes! Many women ovulate before their first postpartum period, making it possible to conceive without realising fertility has returned. If you’re not ready for another pregnancy, using birth control is essential—even if your period hasn’t resumed yet.

Since ovulation can happen unpredictably, discussing postpartum contraception with your doctor is important. If you prefer hormone-free period protection while navigating this transition, menstrual discs can be a great choice.

safe birth control options after pregnancy (even while breastfeeding)

If you want to prevent pregnancy, there are several postpartum birth control options:

• Progestin-only birth control pills (safe for breastfeeding mums)
• IUDs (hormonal or copper)
• Barrier methods like condoms and diaphragms
• Contraceptive injections or implants

Discuss with your healthcare provider to determine the best method for your situation.

why is my first period after pregnancy so heavy? (what’s normal & what’s not)

It’s common for your first postpartum period to be heavier than usual. Your uterus is still adjusting, and hormonal fluctuations can cause an increased flow. However, seek medical attention if you experience:

• Bleeding that soaks through a pad in less than an hour
• Periods lasting longer than seven days
• Large blood clots bigger than a 50-cent coin
• Foul-smelling discharge

Using a menstrual disc, like those from my mimi, can help manage heavy flow comfortably and discreetly, while also being a sustainable option.

disclaimer

This information is provided as a general guide and should not replace professional medical advice. If you have concerns about your postpartum period, consult your healthcare provider.