Post-partum Periods- What to expect?

One of the major perks of pregnancy is skipping your periods and ensuing issues. However, It is only a matter of time before your period return after delivery. The duration of time before you begin with periods after delivery depends on various factors such as whether you are breastfeeding or not. Breastfeeding mothers usually enjoy some more months of freedom from periods but this is not guaranteed for all lactating mothers.

If you are expecting your first baby, there might be several questions in your mind. This article will throw light on some of your major concerns such as, when will my periods return? will the flow be heavy? Will my periods be regular and so on.

When will you have your first period after delivery?

It is impossible to set a timeline for the return of your post-partum period. However, it largely depends on your breastfeeding regime. Women who actively breastfeed their babies, usually do not ovulate. If you are not ovulating, it means you will not have your period.

If you are not breastfeeding, you may expect your period to return about four weeks after delivery. However, some women may take six to twelve weeks to have their first period after giving birth.

If you are breastfeeding regularly, your first period is likely to take a longer break. You can enjoy the freedom for periods of about three to six months. However, this is not true for everyone as there may be women who get their first period six weeks after delivery or others who have their first period after eighteen months of delivery.

Some women combine breastfeeding with bottle-feeding for various reasons. They can expect their period to return sooner; in about six to twelve weeks.

Will your first periods after delivery be heavy and painful?

There is no typical pattern that may be true for the first post-partum period. Some women may find their flow to be very heavy while others might experience light and easy periods. Sometimes the period may be painful too. The body needs some time to resume its original functioning, so there is no need to worry. Your post-partum period flow also depends on your choice of birth control. It has been observed that women who are on the pill may have light periods; but again, this may vary from person to person.

Can you conceive before your first postpartum period?

This question arises in every woman’s mind and rightly so! Yes! You can get pregnant even before you have your first period after delivery. This is because a woman starts ovulating before menstruation in the monthly cycle. So, unless you are planning to have another baby in quick succession, you need to adopt one of the contraceptive methods as soon as you resume your sex life.

Conclusion

The timing of your postpartum period cannot be predicted accurately as it is different for everyone. There are bound to be some changes in your regular pattern, but it is bound to return to normal over time. So, relax and enjoy motherhood without any worries!