Bringing a baby into the world is one of the most transformative experiences your body will go through. And just when you think you’re starting to adjust to life postpartum, along comes your period, making its grand return (or keeping you guessing for a little while longer). So, when should you expect it? Will it be different? And what’s the best way to handle it sustainably? Let’s dive in.
When Will My Period Return?
The answer? It depends. Everyone’s body is different, and factors like breastfeeding, hormones, and overall recovery play a role in when your cycle kicks back in.
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If you’re breastfeeding, your body produces higher levels of prolactin, which can suppress ovulation. Some people don’t see a period until they begin weaning, while others get theirs back within a few months.
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If you’re formula feeding, your period may return as soon as four to eight weeks postpartum.
And then there’s lochia—the postpartum bleeding that happens right after birth. It’s not a period, but it can last for weeks, gradually lightening from red to pink to yellow-white. Once lochia stops, your real period is back on the cards.
How Your Period Might Change Post-Birth
A lot has shifted in your body over the past nine months, and that includes your menstrual cycle. Your period might:
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Be heavier or lighter than before
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Arrive with stronger cramps or, weirdly, be less painful
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Be irregular at first, especially if your hormones are still settling
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Bring new PMS symptoms (thanks, hormones!)
Your first few cycles may feel unpredictable—but over time, things usually stabilise. If you’re experiencing extreme pain, prolonged heavy bleeding, or anything that just doesn’t feel right, it’s always worth checking in with a healthcare professional.
The Best Period Products for Postpartum Recovery
Your body’s been through a lot, so choosing gentle, effective, and sustainable period products is key. Here’s what we recommend:
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Organic Cotton Pads & Tampons: If your body isn’t ready for internal products straight away, DAME’s organic cotton pads offer breathable, toxin-free protection. Our organic tampons are also a great option when you’re ready to use them again—free from synthetics and plastics, they’re kind to your body and the planet.
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Period Pants: Let’s be honest—leaks, unpredictable flows, and sheer exhaustion make period pants a total lifesaver. DAME’s period pants hold up to 2.5 regular pads’ worth of blood, keeping you covered and comfy all day (or night!).
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Menstrual Cups: If you used a menstrual cup before pregnancy, check with your doctor before using one postpartum. Your cervix and pelvic floor may have changed, so a different size might work better now. DAME’s menstrual cup is made with medical-grade silicone and is designed for long-lasting, leak-free wear.
Balancing Hormones and Supporting Your Body
Your first period postpartum isn’t just about bleeding—it’s about your hormones recalibrating. Some tips for smoother sailing:
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Prioritise Iron & Hydration: Heavy periods can zap your iron levels, so stock up on leafy greens, nuts, and fortified foods.
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Go Easy on Caffeine & Sugar: Fluctuating hormones can heighten cravings, but too much caffeine and sugar can make symptoms like bloating and mood swings worse.
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Move Your Body (Gently!): If you’re feeling up to it, light exercise (like walking or yoga) can help relieve cramps and boost mood.
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Rest When You Can: Easier said than done with a newborn, but quality sleep (even in small doses) helps regulate hormones and energy levels.
Final Thoughts
Your first period after birth is a reminder of how incredible your body is—it’s recovering, recalibrating, and finding its new normal. Whether it arrives quickly or takes its time, know that you’ve got options to support your body in the most sustainable way possible.
At DAME, we believe that period care should be good for you and the planet—which is why our range of organic, toxin-free, and reusable period products is designed to work with your body, not against it.
Ready to make the switch? Explore our full range of sustainable period products and find what works best for your postpartum journey.
