Does Breastfeeding Delay Periods? Doctor Explains the Truth About Fertility During Lactation
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Mothers who breastfeed often experience delayed periods. Many mistake it as natural contraception. Doctor addressed this and busted myths.
Breastfeeding Week is observed from August 1 to 7 every year. As it wraps up, let’s take a closer look at one of the most misunderstood aspects of breastfeeding: its relation to fertility.
Often, there are many questions surrounding breastfeeding, periods, and conception. Can you get pregnant while breastfeeding? Does breastfeeding delay periods? And is breastfeeding a natural form of birth control? With so many questions, it’s easy for myths and misconceptions to take over. It becomes vital to be well-informed to get better clarity.
डॉ स्वप्निल अग्रहरि Sr Consultant – Obstetrics & Gynaecology at SilverStreak Multispeciality Hospital, shared with HT Lifestyle a comprehensive explanation behind this connection between breastfeeding and fertility.
“When you breastfeed exclusively, your body produces higher levels of prolactin—the hormone responsible for milk production. Prolactin also suppresses ovulation, which can delay the menstrual cycle for several months.”
This phenomenon, known as lactational amenorrhea, can act as a form of natural contraception—but only under specific conditions:
Under these conditions, fertility suppression can be up to 98% effective, according to the World Health Organization. However, once breastfeeding frequency reduces—either due to supplementation or the baby sleeping longer at night—ovulation may resume, and periods can return even before visible bleeding occurs.
Dr. Swapnil cautions, “The absence of periods doesn’t guarantee you’re not fertile. Ovulation can occur before your first postpartum period, meaning pregnancy is possible.”
In short, breastfeeding can delay the return of menstruation, but it is not a foolproof birth control method. Mothers who wish to avoid pregnancy should discuss contraception options with their doctor, even during lactation.
Dr Swapnil also highlighted the benefits of breastfeeding and what it means for a mother’s health. She said,“It also offers long-term health benefits for the mother by reducing the risk of certain cancers, such as breast cancer and ovarian cancer, and potentially decreasing the risk of developing type 2 diabetes mellitus.”
