Expect changes after pregnancy
Pregnancy changes your cycle6
Pregnancy hormones change your body. After pregnancy, it takes some time for your body — and your cycles — to get back to normal. You may feel your period in different ways than you used to. Changes in your cycle after pregnancy are completely normal, but it is hard to predict what these changes will be, as every woman — and her situation — is unique.
Irregular cycles6
Periods may take several months to start again after pregnancy and may not be as regular you remember them to be. The first cycle may be heavy and painful. Don't be surprised if you experience PMS and cramps for the first few cycles.
Breastfeeding6
A breastfeeding hormone, prolactin, stimulates milk production and suppresses your ovarian hormones. So if you nurse regularly, your periods may not return until you stop breastfeeding. But if you are giving your baby bottles as well as breastfeeding, your periods may start about 4 months after childbirth.
Getting back to normal6
If you are not breastfeeding, your periods may begin after a month or two. The first cycle may be heavy and painful, and you may also experience PMS and cramps for the first few cycles. It usually takes a few months for cycles to return to normal.
If you are concerned about your symptoms or your period, talk to your doctor.
