After giving birth, your body goes through huge hormonal shifts - and at some point, your menstrual cycle will return. But when that happens can vary widely from person to person. Whether you're breastfeeding, bottle-feeding, or somewhere in between, the timing of your first postpartum period depends on several factors.
Understanding your body’s rhythms is empowering – so here’s what to expect from your first few periods after birth, and when to seek help if something doesn’t feel quite right.
When Does Your Period Come Back After Giving Birth?
The timing of your first postpartum period largely depends on whether or not you're breastfeeding.
If You're Not Breastfeeding: If you're formula-feeding exclusively, your period may return as soon as 5 to 8 weeks after giving birth. Some people experience their first period sooner, and others later - but this range is considered typical.
If You're Breastfeeding: especially exclusively (feeding on demand, day and night) - your period might not return for several months, or even until after you stop breastfeeding altogether. This delay is due to high levels of the hormone prolactin, which suppresses ovulation.
Some breastfeeding parents won’t see a period until:
- Baby starts sleeping longer stretches at night
- Baby begins weaning or solids
- Breastfeeds become less frequent
Every body is different. It’s perfectly normal to go months without a period while breastfeeding, especially in the first 6–12 months postpartum.
Can You Get Pregnant Before Your First Period?
Yes! This surprises many people. You ovulate before you menstruate, so it's entirely possible to become pregnant before your first period returns.
That’s why the NHS recommends using contraception once you resume sex postpartum - even if your period hasn’t come back yet.
What Will My First Period Be Like After Birth?
It may be heavier, longer, or more painful than before pregnancy and that’s usually normal. Here’s what to expect:
Common changes include:
- Stronger cramping (as your uterus works to return to its normal size)
- Heavier bleeding (especially in the first cycle)
- Irregular cycles at first - your hormones are still regulating
- Clotting - small clots are normal, but speak to a GP if larger than a 50p coin
- Mood swings or PMS symptoms - these can feel more intense post-birth
If you're breastfeeding, your period might return in fits and starts - light spotting one month, then nothing the next. It can take a few cycles to settle into a rhythm.
What’s the Difference Between Lochia and a Period?
In the early weeks after birth, you’ll experience lochia - postpartum vaginal bleeding that’s not the same as a period. It starts out red and heavy, then changes colour and decreases over time.
Here’s how to tell them apart:
| Lochia | First Period |
|---|---|
| Begins immediately after birth | Can return weeks or months later |
| Gradual colour change from red to brown to yellow/white | Bright red or dark red bleeding |
| Often includes small clots | May include larger clots in first cycle |
| Tapers off over 4–6 weeks | Lasts 3–7 days, like a typical period |
Make sure you’re well protected and comfortable with our Lansinoh Maternity Pads.
Does Breastfeeding Make Periods More Painful or Lighter?
Everyone's experience is different. Some breastfeeding parents find that their periods:
- Are lighter and less frequent
- Return as soon as baby begins sleeping longer or weaning
- Cause temporary dips in milk supply (usually mild and short-lived)
Others notice more intense cramps or heavier bleeding. Hormonal fluctuations can vary, and if anything feels extreme, it’s okay to ask for support.
How Will My Period Affect My Milk Supply?
For most people, their milk supply remains stable when their period returns. However, some may notice a temporary dip in supply just before or during their period due to hormone shifts.
You might also notice:
- Your baby fusses more at the breast
- Your nipples feel more sensitive
These changes are usually short-term and can be supported with extra hydration, nutrition, and frequent feeding or expressing. There is no need to stop breastfeeding during this time.
When to Speak to a GP or Midwife
Contact your GP if:
- Your bleeding is very heavy (soaking through pads every hour)
- You pass large clots regularly
- Your periods don’t return within 6 months if you're not breastfeeding
- You experience painful cramps or prolonged spotting between periods
- You’re struggling emotionally with the changes
Period Products and Postpartum Bodies
You might find that your preferences for menstrual products change after birth. Here are a few things to keep in mind:
- Pads are usually best in the early weeks after birth - avoid tampons or menstrual cups until at least 6 weeks, or after being cleared by your GP.
- If using a cup, check for any pelvic floor changes first.
- Choose breathable, cotton-based products to reduce irritation.
Midwife’s Top Tips
- Your period may return as early as 5 weeks or as late as 6 months - both are normal.
- Use contraception even if your period hasn’t come back.
- Expect some irregularity or heaviness in early cycles.
- Your first period may feel different - don’t be alarmed.
- Ask your GP if you notice pain, extreme bleeding, or long delays.
- Track your cycle closely after birth - this will allow you to identify any changes/concerns you would like to speak to a health professional about and gives you more awareness of your cycle.
Your postpartum body is navigating big shifts - and your menstrual cycle is just one part of that journey. Whenever your period returns, know that it’s another step in your body’s remarkable recovery.
