Cycle returned and Breastfeeding

[Ummy]

Hi All,

Today my cycle returned after 5 months of exclusive breastfeeding. I don't know why since I have not started my ds on any solids.

I noticed there was a slight decrease in my milk as a result. What could be the reason for this..is it hormones? What can I take that will help the milk supply increase while I am on my cycle?

Thanks

Ummy

[Ammaarah]

I got my period at 9 weeks postpartum, and it's been fairly regular ever since. Augh! Anyway, I just make a batch of oatmeal cookies if I feel like my supply has dipped a little at AF time, and of course nurse on demand. The oatmeal cookies help with PMS and milk supply.

[mommycakes]

Mine came back at 6 months--same situation (babe was EBF). You can try "mother's milk" tea --I actually notice larger (read: "full") breasts after drinking this tea (my bbs are saggier now as I'm nursing a 2.5 yr/old so the old fullness is nice). Also, AF milk doesn't taste as good, it's often sour, my dd's described it as "yucky milk". She always nurses less when I'm having my period. The lower milk supply could be a combination of hormones and less time at the breast. It'll come back full force, just keep doing what you're doing

[Swirly]

As a pumping mom, I can tell you that AF can cut your supply dramatically - not just a little. I experience 20-30% decrease every month, not only with Af, but also with ovulation. It is a huge headache as an EP'er, but as a nursing mom, I would just nurse, nurse, nurse.

My observations are that the milk at that time has less fat in it, which tends to stimulate hunger, so the babe eats more. (It always freaks me out when my output is going down and her consumption is going up). If you nurse, this is great, as it helps even out your supply. If you pump...it sucks.

[mackysmama]

With my first, my period came at 8 weeks postpartum, and I was pumping to feed another baby! With my second, it came at 10 weeks postpartum. It just happens to some women, UNFORTUNATELY! I eat oatmeal almost every day and I make sure I drink plenty of water. Both of my babies were chubbers (I actually had a problem with oversupply with my first) and I trusted that I had enough milk for them. I've never noticed a drop in supply but I've also never really pumped so probably wouldn't be able to say for sure. Don't worry, just keep nursing and your body knows what to do.