Breastfeeding While On Your Period

Breastfeeding is a beautiful, intimate, and natural process that helps new mothers bond with their newborns while providing essential nutrients for their growth and development. However, it can be overwhelming for some, especially when they experience changes, such as the return of menstruation. If you’re a breastfeeding mom wondering about how your period might affect your breastfeeding journey, read on.

Benefits of Breastfeeding

First, let’s talk about the incredible benefits of breastfeeding for both moms and babies. Breast milk is a superfood that contains all the good things which help babies thrive – including antibodies that can protect them from infections and diseases. In fact, breastfeeding is not only encouraged but also widely supported in Singapore, with the government recognising the many benefits it offers to both mother and child. One such support is the Baby Friendly Hospital Initiative (BFHI), which is a global effort to ensure maternity hospitals meet best practice standards in supporting mothers to breastfeed successfully.

Not only that, breastfeeding helps new moms by reducing the risk of postpartum depression and lowering the likelihood of developing breast and ovarian cancer. As if that wasn’t enough, it can also promote weight loss! So, breastfeeding is a win-win situation for both you and your little one.

What To Expect When Breastfeeding During Your Period

The return of your period usually signifies that your fertility health is on the right track, but hormonal changes during menstruation can affect breastfeeding. 

During your period, you may experience a temporary decrease in milk supply and a change in the taste of your breast milk. This could make it more difficult for your baby to latch. The hormonal fluctuations that come with menstruation can impact the body's production of the hormone prolactin, which is responsible for milk production. This, in turn, can lead to a dip in milk supply. However, it's important to note that this decrease is usually temporary and often lasts only a few days.

Along with the changes to milk supply and taste, some women may experience physical discomfort during their period. This discomfort can range from mild cramping to bloating and even breast tenderness. In some cases, you may need to adjust your breastfeeding positions to reduce discomfort.

What to Eat to Increase Breast Milk Supply

As a breastfeeding mother, maintaining a healthy supply is key to ensuring your baby's growth and development. While keeping to a balanced diet is always essential, there are specific foods that can help boost lactation. At Marian’s Lactation Boost, we offer a range of delicious and nutrient-packed food products to increase breast milk supply.

Oats, for instance, are a key ingredient in our products and are known to be a rich source of iron, fibre, and protein, all of which help increase your supply. Plus, who doesn't love a hearty bowl of overnight oats or lactation ice cream for breakfast?

Fennel seed is another ingredient which is commonly used to increase breast milk supply. Some of our products, like lactation tea, contain this all-natural herb to help mothers in Singapore get the lactation boost they need.

In addition, you’ll also find all sorts of milk-boosting infusions such as brewer's yeast, flaxseed, and chia seeds, all of which are packed with vital nutrients like iron, protein, and omega-3 fatty acids that help with milk production and support overall maternal health. 

To maintain breast milk supply while on period, breastfeeding mothers should also consume foods or vitamins with rich in calcium and magnesium vitamins or take supplements. These minerals nutrients are essential for muscle function, bone health, and energy production, and can help support a steady milk supply. Good sources of calcium and magnesium include leafy greens, almonds, tofu, and dairy products.

But when is the best time to start eating lactation cookies and other milk-boosting products? can you have them during your period? The answer is a resounding yes. Our delectable bakes are made to complement your breastfeeding journey, no matter which stage you’re at. So, relax and indulge!

Breastfeeding while on your period is entirely safe and natural. It's a great way to bond with your baby while providing them with the best possible nutrition. While there may be some side effects to watch out for, there are plenty of ways to make the experience more comfortable. If all else fails, our lactation consultants in Singapore are here to help.