Postpartum bleeding: everything you need to know

In the family of little postpartum pleasures, I present: the return of menstruation. Rest assured, despite its name, this event doesn't mean you'll regress physically to the point of wearing diapers yourself. No, that's one of the little pleasures of old age. Everything in its own time, don't be in such a hurry. So, what exactly is the return of menstruation?

This term simply refers to the return of menstruation, the first menstrual cycle after childbirth. Ah yes, all good things must come to an end! We hadn't missed our periods for nine months, and yet, without warning, they're back again, adding another little challenge to our bodies, which are barely recovering from the biggest effort of their lives. Further proof, if any were needed, that women are tough and their bodies are war machines. #WeAreWoMUM

When does menstruation return? 

You want a date? Oh, no. That would be far too easy. You'd risk getting ahead of yourself, which wouldn't be fun. The first period and the return of menstruation have this in common: the element of surprise. Sorry, but it's impossible to predict exactly when your period will return. Every woman is different, every pregnancy is different, every postpartum period is different, and therefore every return of menstruation is different too. It can even vary from one pregnancy to another in the same woman. 

The arrival of the first postpartum period can be delayed (though there's no guarantee) in breastfeeding women, as lactation can sometimes suppress ovarian function and thus prevent ovulation, and without ovulation, there's no period. However, it all depends on the frequency of breastfeeding and whether it's exclusive or mixed feeding. Despite breastfeeding, menstruation is still possible from the third month onward. In women who don't breastfeed, it typically occurs between the 6th and 8th week after delivery. But keep in mind that all these figures are just averages.

Do not confuse postpartum bleeding with lochia. 

Lo- what? Lochia is the bleeding that occurs immediately after the baby is born. And there you have it, another little perk! Just ask, ladies, it's always there. Lochia can last for several weeks and is particularly heavy in the first 72 hours after delivery. After that, it gradually decreases over the following days. Another characteristic is its color, which fluctuates. First red, then pink, and finally brown. The purpose of this bleeding is, in a way, to cleanse the uterus, eliminating all the lining and blood vessels that supplied the placenta. It's also common for lochia to contain blood clots. All of this is normal; it's a sign that the cervix is ​​beginning to heal. 

Not just simple rules

Not always. Postpartum bleeding can sometimes be more intense. The warning signs are often the same as those of classic premenstrual syndrome: breast tenderness, lower abdominal tension, mood swings, fatigue, etc. However, this initial postpartum bleeding may be heavier, longer, and more painful than before. Don't panic; this doesn't mean all your menstrual cycles will be like this from now on. Feel free to contact your gynecologist or midwife if you have any concerns or questions. 

The trap to avoid

Don't want to have back-to-back babies? Then keep in mind that ovulation can precede the return of menstruation, meaning you could be fertile even before your period arrives. The rumor that breastfeeding acts as a contraceptive is absolutely false. Getting pregnant again just a few weeks after giving birth is a dream for some, but absolute terror for others. To stay in control of your body, remember to use contraception during sexual intercourse. If you are breastfeeding, consult your gynecologist to ensure everything is okay for you and the baby.

The good news 

Ultimately, even if we grumble about our periods returning, it's actually a good thing because it means nature is taking its course and the body is starting to function "normally" again after pregnancy and childbirth. The moral of the story: a woman's body is incredible. It lives and gives life, and for these reasons, it deserves all your attention, kindness, and patience. Everything will eventually return to normal. 

#milkawayapparel #inmumwetrust #wearewomum #teamwomum #postpartum #postpartumjourney #postpartumhero #postpartumbody #nappies

©illustration photo credit: Unsplash - Monika Kozub