Healthdirect, the government-funded health information service, puts it simply in its guide to periods while breastfeeding: your periods come back at your body's own pace, with no set timeline. How often and how long your baby feeds matters, and so does how sensitive your body is to breastfeeding hormones.
So what are postpartum periods like once they arrive? Here is what Australian health services say about timing, irregular cycles, contraception and the signs that need a doctor.
Quick answer: Postpartum periods can return as early as 4 to 6 weeks after birth, or take months or even 1 to 2 years if you keep breastfeeding. Early cycles are often irregular while you are making milk, and they may not match your periods before pregnancy. Ovulation can happen first, so pregnancy is possible before your period returns.
How long after giving birth does your period come back?
Anywhere from a few weeks to a couple of years. The Australian Government's Pregnancy, Birth and Baby service, run by Healthdirect Australia, explains on its periods after pregnancy page that bottle-feeding or partly breastfeeding usually brings them back sooner. Breastfeeding exclusively can delay your first period by several months, and for some people who keep breastfeeding it takes 1 to 2 years. How often you feed and when your baby starts solid food both play a part.
Why are my periods irregular while breastfeeding?
Because your body is still making milk. Healthdirect says periods may be irregular at first while you breastfeed, and that skipping a period or going a few months between periods is not unusual. They should settle into your usual pattern as your baby breastfeeds less.
Will my periods be the same as before pregnancy?
There is no way to know in advance. Pregnancy, Birth and Baby says returning periods may not match the ones you had before, and suggests speaking to your doctor if your period pain or pattern changes. If cramps bother you, ask your doctor or pharmacist which period pain medicine is safe while breastfeeding.
Can a period affect breastfeeding?
It can change how your baby wants to feed. Healthdirect notes that hormonal changes linked to your period may affect feeding, which can affect supply, and that a few extra breastfeeds a day usually help. It also reminds parents that you can become pregnant while breastfeeding, because ovulation can come before your first period. A doctor or nurse can suggest breastfeeding-safe contraception such as a copper or hormonal IUD, an implant or the progestogen-only pill.
If you are planning to go back to a period cup, our article on wearing a menstrual cup after pregnancy covers when to start.
When to see a GP
Healthdirect suggests talking to a doctor about:
- changes in your usual pattern, or irregular periods;
- ongoing spotting or bleeding between periods;
- periods that are heavier or longer than usual;
- painful periods;
- bleeding after sex.
In the weeks after the birth, Pregnancy, Birth and Baby says to contact your doctor or midwife immediately if blood soaks more than one pad every 1 to 2 hours, bleeding suddenly increases or you pass large clots, the blood suddenly turns bright red, or you feel sweaty, dizzy, weak or short of breath. For heavy bleeding, strong pain or feeling very unwell, call triple zero (000).
Frequently asked questions
Can I use a tampon or period cup before my 6-week check?
Pregnancy, Birth and Baby recommends waiting until your 6-week medical check before using tampons, and using a sanitary pad until then or until your doctor advises otherwise. A period cup sits inside the vagina too, so ask your doctor about it at that same appointment before you start using one again.
Is it normal to skip periods while breastfeeding?
Yes. Healthdirect says that while you are making milk, it is not unusual to skip a period or have a few months between periods. Your cycle should return to its usual routine as breastfeeding reduces. If you notice ongoing spotting, much heavier bleeding or new pain, though, check in with your GP.
Can I take period pain medicine while breastfeeding?
Some medicines may suit you and others may not, so ask first. Pregnancy, Birth and Baby suggests asking your doctor or pharmacist which period pain medicine is safe to take while breastfeeding. You can also call its maternal child health nurses on 1800 882 436 for general advice.
Can I get pregnant before my first period after birth?
Yes. Both healthdirect and Pregnancy, Birth and Baby say ovulation can happen before your first period returns, so you can conceive while breastfeeding and before you have bled. If you want to avoid another pregnancy for now, talk to your doctor about contraception that works alongside breastfeeding.
When your doctor has given the all-clear and your cycle is back, the Lunette period cup is a reusable menstrual cup made in Finland from 100% medical-grade silicone, free from BPA, PFAS, rubber and latex. Between periods, our page on how to clean a menstrual cup shows how to wash and store it.
General information only, not medical advice. For questions about your own recovery, talk to your GP, midwife or maternal child health nurse.
