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Childbirth/menstruation post childbirth
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Question
Hi, my period has now returned but it is alot heavier than normal. I mean alot heavier. Before I had my son it had reduced to about 3 days of fairly light bleeding. Now I'm going through stuff in a matter of hours and it's heavier than it has ever, ever been. Is this normal? should I get checked out by a doctor? or is it just anohter thing to get used to?
Eugenie,
The same thing happened to me after I had my first child. However, it only lasted for the first few cycles and then evened back out. Your hormones can still be fluctuating a bit after giving birth, so this can cause abnormally light or heavy periods for a few months. Breastfeeding can also affect your cycle as well.
Unless you are experiencing severe cramping or other symptoms, I wouldn't worry too much. It should level out after a few cycles.
Best,
Catherine
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| Rating(1-10) | Knowledgeability = 10 | Clarity of Response = 10 | Politeness = 10 |
| Comment | Thanks very much, that's made me feel much better. The cramping is normal so I guess it's just those hormones! | ||
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Answers by Expert:
Catherine Beier MS CBE
Expertise
I can provide evidence-based information and current research findings concerning childbirth and pregnancy. My specializations include natural childbirth, pregnancy and birth interventions, fetal positioning, labor induction, choosing a care provider, midwives, homebirth, unassisted birth, natural pain relief, medications in pregnancy and birth, informed consent, understanding the risks and benefits of childbirth choices, doulas, waterbirth, childbirth methods, childbirth education classes, cesarean section, and VBAC.
Experience
I have been a childbirth educator, mother, author, public speaker, researcher, and birth advocate for the past 9 years. I am also the author of Giving Birth Naturally, a site dedicated to natural childbirth and pregnancy information. I publish evidence-based articles on pregnancy, childbirth, newborn care, and post-partum care. I'm also a mother of three children, two daughters and one son all born naturally. To learn more about what normal birth looks like, view the natural childbirth video of my son being born at home unassisted.
Publications
My book, Birth Outside the Box, was published in 2007.
Education/Credentials
I hold a Master's degree in communication disorders with an emphasis in child development. I am also an independent childbirth educator.
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