Expert: Catherine Beier MS CBE - 7/19/2011

Question
I had a C-section two weeks ago. My Dr. said that at my six week checkup that he is going to prescribe medication to make my body return to its normal cycle.  He said that my metabolism still thinks I am pregnant and I will continue to gain wait (or at least not be able to lose wait as quickly) until I am having a regular period. I am nursing but he said it would not affect my milk.  I had never heard of this.  Any insight would be appreciated.

Answer
Anna,

No, this is not standard and is not routinely necessary, especially at only 6 weeks postpartum and given the fact that you are nursing.  Your body knows you have given birth; you are producing milk for your child.  Breastfeeding is a great way to lose weight after pregnancy as it speeds your metabolism - you need more calories per day (approximately 500) while breastfeeding than you did when you were pregnant (approximately 300).

Many nursing mothers will not have a regular cycle until their child is not nursing at night for a stretch of longer than 6 hours or so.  Some will not have their cycle return for a year or more which is completely normal.

So, it's your choice as to whether you want to take the medicine he prescribes.  There is no clear medical need for it at this time.


Best,
Catherine Beier, MS, CBE
GivingBirthNaturally.com