Published on: 6/12/2025
Why might women with PCOS experience irregular periods while breastfeeding?
Women with PCOS may experience irregular periods while breastfeeding due to the natural effects of breastfeeding on ovulation and fertility.
Explanation
Breastfeeding can naturally delay the return of regular menstrual cycles. This is because breastfeeding affects the body's hormone levels, which can suppress ovulation.
How Breastfeeding Affects Menstrual Cycles:
- Hormonal Influence: Breastfeeding increases levels of a hormone called prolactin, which can suppress ovulation.
- Ovulation Suppression: Without regular ovulation, periods can be irregular or absent.
Women with PCOS already have irregular ovulation patterns. When combined with the effects of breastfeeding, this can lead to even more irregular periods.
What This Means:
- Delayed Periods: It may take longer for women with PCOS to see their periods return after giving birth.
- Varied Experiences: Each woman's experience can differ, with some seeing a return to regular cycles sooner than others.
Breastfeeding is a natural process that affects all women differently, and those with PCOS may notice more pronounced changes in their menstrual cycles.
(References)
- Chao S. (1987). The effect of lactation on ovulation and fertility. Clinics in perinatology, 3549114.
- Gray RH, Campbell OM, Apelo R, Eslami SS, Zacur H, Ramos RM, et al. (1990). Risk of ovulation during lactation. Lancet (London, England), 1967336.
- McNeilly AS, Howie PW, Houston MJ, Cook A, & Boyle H. (1982). adequacy of post-partum luteal phases. Clinical endocrinology, 7165971.
Tell your friends about us.
We would love to help them too.
For First Time Users
What is Ubie’s Doctor’s Note?
We provide a database of explanations from real doctors on a range of medical topics. Get started by exploring our library of questions and topics you want to learn more about.
Learn more about diseases
Was this page helpful?
Purpose and positioning of servicesUbie Doctor's Note is a service for informational purposes. The provision of information by physicians, medical professionals, etc. is not a medical treatment. If medical treatment is required, please consult your doctor or medical institution. We strive to provide reliable and accurate information, but we do not guarantee the completeness of the content. If you find any errors in the information, please contact us.