Why is it hard to get pregnant while breastfeeding?

However, if you choose to breastfeed, you may not see the return of your period and your fertility for much longer. Breastfeeding can delay the return of your menstrual cycle (including ovulation) and therefore your ability to get pregnant again for a while.

Does breastfeeding affect conception?

Breastfeeding has a demonstrable influence in inhibiting ovulation; it is not surprising that it has an inhibiting effect on fertility. According to Perez, during the first 3 months when a woman is nursing, there is higher security provided agaist conception than most contraceptives.

Why ovulation does not occur during lactation?

Elevated prolactin levels and a reduction of gonadotropin-releasing hormone from the hypothalamus during lactation suppress ovulation. This leads to a reduction in luteinizing hormone (LH) release and inhibition of follicular maturation.

Why is the Ovarian Cycle suppressed during breastfeeding?

Breastfeeding delays the resumption of normal ovarian cycles by disrupting the pattern of pulsatile release of GnRH from the hypothalamus and hence LH from the pituitary.

How long does it take for fertility to return after breastfeeding?

Some moms will find it takes more than six months for their cycles and fertility to return, while other mothers find that their cycles and fertility return earlier than six months.

How can I restore my fertility while breastfeeding?

To bring back your fertility sooner, try changing your breastfeeding pattern. There is no general rule around breastfeeding frequency that leads to the return of fertility. Abrupt changes in breastfeeding generally brings back fertility quicker.

Does your milk supply decrease if you get pregnant?

Milk supply during pregnancy Most mothers who are nursing through pregnancy notice a decrease in milk supply by mid-pregnancy, but sometimes as early as the first month. During pregnancy, the mature milk is also making a gradual change to the colostrum which is present at birth.

Are you more fertile after stopping breastfeeding?

There is no general rule around breastfeeding frequency that leads to the return of fertility. Abrupt changes in breastfeeding generally brings back fertility quicker. Keep in mind that you and your baby would have to be ready for this change.

Can a nursing mother get pregnant without seeing her period?

Yes, it’s possible to get pregnant any time from about three weeks after giving birth. This is true even if you’re breastfeeding and haven’t had a period yet. Many women are less fertile while they’re breastfeeding, especially in the early weeks and months.