Expert: ruth kraft - 10/25/2009

Question
Hi, I have a 12 week old baby and I am breastfeeding.  I am also on the mini pill.  I have had bleeding twice now.  The first time was 2 weeks ago and I was advised by my doctor that it was my period and not to worry as although unusual whilst exclusively breastfeeding, it was OK.  However, I have started to bleed again.  The only thing in common around these episodes is that I went out the night before the bleeding started and so the baby was fed expressed milk.  I therefore missed a few feeds but expressed off the surplus milk the morning after.  Could this be the cause of the bleeding?

Answer
Yes, it could be. If your body senses that you are weaning it will bring your ovulation back. THe mini pill often  can effect hormones and ovulation. if your baby misses 2 times of nursing, pumping once in the morning wont be the same to your body. If the baby takes one bottle and you pump on etime, it should be ok. Just make sure you pump one time for every time the baby misses a nursing ;)

it is never 100% effective. I would suggest if you are trying to avoid getting pregnant, get the book called taking charge of your fertility and watching for the signs of ovulation to better  your chances of not getting pregnant or getting pregnant when you are ready again.

good luck :)