How Long After Stopping Breastfeeding Is It Normal to Resume Menstruation?

Many mothers choose to breastfeed their babies after childbirth, as breastmilk is considered the best food for newborns. During the breastfeeding process, mothers usually do not menstruate. Menstruation typically resumes 1-2 months after weaning the baby from breastfeeding. If menstruation does not resume within 1-2 months after weaning, it is recommended to consult a doctor for a hormone panel test and subsequent treatment based on the test results.

I. Normal Menstruation After Weaning

1. The timing of the first postpartum menstruation varies depending on whether the mother is breastfeeding or not. For mothers who do not breastfeed, menstruation and ovulation typically resume within 6-10 weeks postpartum, or within two months after childbirth. For mothers who breastfeed, ovulation may be delayed until around 24-27 weeks postpartum, or even later. Therefore, the amount and timing of the first postpartum menstruation vary from person to person.

2. Commonly, the initial menstruation of breastfeeding mothers is delayed, with some women experiencing it even after more than a year. This is due to physiological factors, as breastfeeding elevates prolactin levels in the mother's blood, which can reduce or stop the secretion of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) from the hypothalamus, resulting in the absence of ovarian cycles and ovulation. Additionally, increased prolactin levels can lead to poor ovarian response to gonadotropins, causing follicular development to stop and ovulation to be delayed.

II. Methods for Weaning

1. Make a decision and wean gradually. Before weaning, mothers should be determined and avoid reversing their decision halfway, which can increase the difficulty of weaning. Mothers can work during the day and feed their babies with formula milk, while breastfeeding at night when they return home. To accelerate the weaning process, mothers can consider breastfeeding their babies at night after they fall asleep, as babies often cannot distinguish between breastmilk and formula milk when asleep.

2. Fathers can accompany the baby instead of the mother. During the weaning process, mothers should try to stay away from their babies, and fathers can spend more time with them. Fathers can play games and toys with the baby to reduce their dependency on the mother. Although it may be difficult at the beginning, gradually, as the baby gains trust in the father, they will accept their companionship.

3. Encourage the baby to eat more milk. Babies often resist formula milk during weaning, but mothers can encourage them to consume more by guiding them and providing encouragement or material rewards after they finish eating.