Welcome back to the charming world of sanitary pads and premenstrual surprises! If you think that after giving birth your period has decided to take a long, well-deserved vacation in an exotic location, you need to think again. The reality is quite different – he hasn’t escaped to the beach with a cocktail in hand. He’s stayed close to you, lurking like a ninja in the dark, ready to appear at the most unexpected moment.
Picture it this way: while you are enjoying your new role as a mother and trying to get used to the new rhythm of life, your cycle is hiding around the corner, waiting for the moment when it will make its dramatic comeback. Without warning!
What are the main factors affecting the first cycle after childbirth?
First, let’s talk about hormones – these little orchestrators conduct the whole symphony called “first cycle after birth”.
Imagine them as a group of musicians, each with their own instrument, but with one main conductor – the prolactin. He is in charge of nursing and is the real leader in this whole tune. If you’re breastfeeding, prolactin will pick up the baton and order ovulation to rest a little longer. This means the cycle can slow down because the boss is on stage and everyone else is just following his pace.
But if you’re not breastfeeding and your little one is on formula, prolactin will step down from the conductor position and ovulation will decide it’s time to come back under the spotlight. And as with any grand comeback, the cycle may come early. It’s as if he’s rushed so as not to miss an important meeting he simply can’t be late for.
Another important factor that plays a role in when your period will return is the way you gave birth.
Whether you’ve opted for a section or gone through a normal birth, your body is like a real athlete after a marathon – it needs time to recover and get back into full shape. And while that’s happening, your cycle will be waiting in the wings, ready to take the stage when your body is fully ready. So while you’re enjoying your new role as a mom, keep in mind that the cycle will show up when its time comes – and when you’re fully physically ready for its return.
When does the cycle usually resume?
Well, as you may have heard, there is no magic date. The postpartum cycle doesn’t come with a calendar in hand, but there are some landmarks that can help you prepare for its big comeback. If you’re not breastfeeding and your baby is on formula, you can expect your first period sometime between the sixth and eighth week after birth. In case you are breastfeeding, you can wait much longer – sometimes even up to a year.
Don’t be surprised if it appears suddenly either. Like meeting an old friend you haven’t seen since kindergarten. Strange and not always pleasant.
Your hormones may decide it’s time to resume your cycle, even if you’re still breastfeeding.
What to expect from the first cycle after childbirth?
Imagine the postpartum cycle as the first outing after a long quarantine – startling and slightly unfamiliar. The first cycle can be more abundant and prolonged – generally much more unpredictable than what you were used to before.
Don’t worry if you feel different symptoms or your cycle is a little longer than usual – the body is still adjusting and working hard to get back to ‘normal’. But if the bleeding is too profuse or lasts more than ten days, then it’s time to consult a doctor and make sure everything is okay.
Is irregular periods after childbirth a cause for concern?
The postpartum cycle can be irregular and unpredictable. But do not be in a hurry to worry.
It’s normal for the cycle to be a bit messy in the first few months. Your hormones are trying to find their rhythm after giving birth, and sometimes it takes time for them to get there.
However, if after a few months your cycle is still “on holiday”, or if you feel severe pain and discomfort, it might be a good idea to consult your gynaecologist. He or she will give you advice and check that everything is fine.
Getting pregnant after childbirth – what do we need to know?
If you’re already thinking about having another little treasure, it’s important to know that getting pregnant after giving birth is possible, even before your cycle fully resumes. Ovulation may return before your first period, so if you’re not ready for another baby, it might be a good idea to consider contraception.
Remember that your body has been through a lot and deserves time to recover. Take your time! Enjoy the time with your little baby and let your body adapt to the new challenges before planning for a new addition to the family.
So, dear ladies, the cycle after childbirth is like summer – you never know exactly when it will appear. When it happens, though, be prepared and relaxed – nature knows her job.
