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Childbirth/postpartum mensuration cycle

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Expert: - 4/6/2008


Question
hi
i had normal delivery on February 2008 and i am breast feeding. my bleeding last for 3 weeks after delivery.recently i had pap test after the week of delivery. since then i am bleeding.i have changed 3 pads per day. i am confused whether i am started with my mensuration cycle, if so, is it too early?. is it because of pap test? i am feeding my baby 6 times per day with 2 ounces of formula, as suggested by pediatrist.

Answer
Pushpa,

It is unclear from your question exactly how many weeks postpartum you are at this point.  


However, it can be normal to start your cycle again 6-8 weeks after delivery, even when breastfeeding.  The pap smear could have caused some spotting but not a full cycle.  It is most likely coincidental and this is your first cycle.


Also, when breastfeeding, it is usually not necessary to supplement with formula.  Breastfed babies are usually fed on demand when they show early signs of hunger, such as rooting, putting their fist in their mouth, etc rather than a set schedule of X times per day.


This will keep your milk supply up so that it increases as your baby grows.


Best,
Catherine

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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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