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could a decrease in milk production have anything to do with your menstrual cycle

LaSara - posted on 10/08/2009 ( 4 moms have responded )

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So i've been nursing/pumping since my son was 2 weeks old. He is now 5 1/2 months. I noticed that when i'm supposed to get my period my milk decreases. I've known a lot of women who don't have periods while they are brestfeeding, but some that do. Does anyone have this problem or has had this problem. Any advice on how to prevent that decrease? I know it's not because of my sons feeding habits, he nurses nights and weekends, they have just progressed not to mention i have a schedule of pumping for my work day. .

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Kristine - posted on 10/11/2009

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Your hormones regulate both or lactation and your menstration, when you start your period your milk can decrease, change in flavor, your nipples can become sensitive, there are all sorts of differences. This is normal. If you notice that your baby doesn't want to eat as much (also normal) just make sure you pump more so that you don't have decrease in your demand which will result in a decrease in supply.

Minnie - posted on 10/10/2009

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Many mothers notice a bit of a drop in supply during their cycle- but frequent on-demand nursing will help keep your supply up (baby isn't going to starve, he'll just nurse more to satisfy his caloric requirements).

April - posted on 10/09/2009

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As long as you're breast-feeding exclusively, your supply won't drastically diminish. As you introduce solids and other liquids it will. I breast fed my youngest for 15 months and didn't have a period the entire time, even though she was also eating and drinking regular food and fluids. Around the time of your normal cycle, add more fluids to your diet to combat the natural reduction of milk from the hormonal change. Steer clear of caffeinated beverages as they are dehydrating.

Jennifer - posted on 10/08/2009

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The decrease should only be during your cycle. Your milk should come back two days after your cycle is over. Or at least that is what I read in"A parents guide to breastfeeding" by amy Spangler. I have not had a cycle yet and my little girl is almost 5 months. So I am going by the book on this.

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