I started my period about 6 weeks after weaning my son. I used to have 28 day regular cycles. I am on day 34 and still haven't started! I have had two negative pregnancy tests. It's frustrating because I want to get pregnant again. Has anyone experienced irregular periods after giving birth? When should I expect my cycle to start up again?
J.,
Best wishes to you. Maybe you body isn't just quite ready to carry another child. Give it a few months, and things will get back to normal.
A.
A missing period can also be a sign of an underactive thyroid, which is not uncommon after being pregnant. If it's not treated this same condition can also cause problems if you're trying to get pregnant or if you are pregnant, so you should have your doctor check your TSH (thyroid stimulating hormone) level at your next appointment.
Even if you're irregular you can monitor your cycle by taking your basal temperature each morning before you get out of bed. Your body temperature spikes (up to a degree!) right about the time you ovulate, then drops again while you're menstruating. The actual temperature is not as important as the trend (up or down), but you can get a decent basal thermometer (rounds to two decimal places) at Wal-Mart for under $10.
Dear J.,
You need to let your body heal for awhile and enjoy your baby. You have plenty of time, so relax while your body heals and let there be more time betwen your children.
you will enjoy them all more, if there is more time inbetween them.
Been there and done that.
Good luck with your children.
Loving kindess
I weaned my son in February, and it took over 2 months to get my period again. I too would have a fairly regular (28-30 day) cycle, but after that first period I got in April, it was 52 days before I got another, then 36 days for the 3rd. I think it is really normal for it to take a while to get back on track. I did manage to get pregnant again last month, even with my cycle not being fully back to normal, so it can be done!
Also, I know there is some medicine doctors can give you to regulate things, so you might want to check with your doctor if you really think it's an issue.
Good luck to you!
I didn't have a period for months after having my son - my doctor had to prescribe something to actually make me have one - then she started me back on the pill. But apparently I had elevated prolactin levels - which was keeping me from having a period. I would check with your doctor if you're concerned.
I've had three children and this has happened to me after the last two. After six months post pregnancy with the second child I took a preg test. Negative. I called the doctor and he prescribed a medication to start my period within 10 days. I had my third child 4 months ago and still have not started. I will contact him at 6 months if I have not started. I wouldn't be concerned about not being able to have more. Your body changes with each pregnancy.
Hi J.. I have a 3 month old girl and I just had my first period after delivering her. It was a lot heavier and I spotted off and on up until this heavy period. So I think our bodies just take a while to get back to normal. I am sure you are still just as likely to get pregnant as you would be if you were regular. Just have fun trying and I am sure you will concieve soon. Just treat yourself like you are pregnant--just to be on the safe side. Good luck!! --C.
My son is 10 months old (only breastfeeding) and I JUST had my first period. I would say irregularity is the name of the game. I just go with the flow! (sorry, didn't mean to be "punny")
First, quit stressing about it. Stress can really affect your body especially your cycles. I have heard it can take up to a year for your body to go "normal" again. My cycles since having my first child 8 years ago actually became heavier but with no more cramping...I would trade in for cramping at this point..arrghh.
Have you talked to your doctor yet? Maybe going in for a blood test can confirm or deny another pregnancy. Sometimes those at home tests are not that great for detecting a very early pregnancy.
Stop worrying and enjoy not having a cycle. Enjoy this freedom for a bit.
J.
Hi, J.,
I'm experiencing the exact same thing! I used to be like clockwork, pre-baby, but nearly 18 mos. later, my cycles are crazy --- last month was 22 days, the month before was 35! I've been reading up about it, though (as we're trying also), and from what I read, hormonal imbalances are VERY normal and can last for quite sometime. I know how aggravating it can be, but it's good to know that it's expected (at least that's what I understand). I agree with the other ladies, though, in that if it's really concerning to you, a trip to your doctor wouldn't hurt anything. Sometimes, some professional reassurance is worth the trip in.
Best of luck to you and your husband,
M.
My son is 5 months old and I still haven't had a "normal" period like I used to. My doc said I am fine and it is just hormonal. (I still cry at the drop of a hat, so I know it MUST be hormonal!!)
Hang in there!! We are also trying again so I know how frustrating it can be.
Good luck to you.
