Knowledge Hub

Chapter 22. Menstruation and Pregnancy

There is no direct association between menstruation and milk flow.

  • Menstruation occurs because hormones (FSH, GnRH) are produced again after childbirth. However, frequent breastfeeding and suckling will inhibit the production of these hormones, thus delaying the return of menstruation. Therefore, an earlier return of your period suggests that previous feedings were insufficient, preventing your body from suppressing hormone production and leading to ovulation again. Insufficient feeding also results in a low milk supply, so there is an indirect relationship between low milk supply and an earlier return of menstruation.
  • Besides, if you want to increase your milk supply, you can try power pumping for 2 to 3 consecutive days. However, this method usually only works for mothers who already have a decent milk supply. If your milk supply is fundamentally low, you need to address the root causes.

Possible. Breastfeeding may lower the chance of pregnancy, but pregnancy is still possible. For mothers who do not intend to get pregnant, please use other methods of contraception.  

Breastfeeding during a healthy and normal pregnancy is generally safe, provided that there is no previous history of miscarriage in the first 20 weeks or preterm labour after 20 weeks. Also, make sure you consume enough calories for yourself, your growing fetus, and your breastfeeding baby.