Breastfeeding & Your Period: Navigating Milk Supply Changes with Confidence

Written By Kathryn Jonas

Understanding Milk Supply: It's All About Demand

Many new parents believe that milk supply is purely biological—either you have it or you don't. In reality, milk production operates on a supply-and-demand basis. The more milk is removed from the breasts, the more milk the body is signaled to produce.

Image: Supply and demand cycle of milk production

Key Principles:

  • "Drained breasts make milk faster." Frequent nursing or pumping stimulates ongoing milk production.

  • "Full breasts make milk slower." Infrequent feeding or missed sessions signal the body to slow down milk production.

The Menstrual Cycle's Impact on Milk Supply

As your body resumes its natural menstrual cycle postpartum, hormonal fluctuations can temporarily affect milk supply. This is most noticeable during the luteal phase—the time between ovulation and the start of menstruation.

Image: Average menstrual cycle

What You Might Notice:

  • Increased baby fussiness or desire to nurse more frequently.

  • Breasts feeling less full or softer than usual.

  • Slight decrease in pumping output.

These changes are typically short-lived and resolve as hormone levels stabilize.

Supporting Your Milk Supply During Menstruation

If you observe a dip in milk supply related to your menstrual cycle, consider the following supportive measures:

  • Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of fluids to support overall health and milk production.

  • Frequent Nursing: Encourage your baby to nurse more often to stimulate milk production.

  • Calcium and Magnesium Supplements: Some lactation consultants recommend taking 1000 mg of calcium and 500 mg of magnesium daily from ovulation until a few days after menstruation begins. Consult with your healthcare provider before starting any supplementation.

When to Seek Additional Support

While temporary dips in milk supply during menstruation are common, reach out to a lactation consultant or healthcare provider if:

  • Your baby shows signs of inadequate weight gain.

  • You experience persistent low milk supply despite interventions.

  • You have concerns or questions about breastfeeding and menstruation.

Remember, you're not alone on this journey. Support is available to help you navigate breastfeeding alongside your body's natural rhythms.

Embracing the Journey

Your body is doing incredible work—nourishing your baby while managing its own cycles. Embrace this journey with confidence, knowing that temporary changes are a normal part of the breastfeeding experience.

Stay attuned to your body's signals, seek support when needed, and trust in your ability to provide for your baby.

Kathryn Jonas