Return of Fertility, Heavy Periods and Period Problems After Baby

Pink Lilly - Return of Fertility

There is a lot of confusion out there about what is considered normal or ideal for the return of fertility after giving birth. Many women experience changes in their cycles after giving birth and aren’t sure where to turn for help or if they even need help in the first place.

Let’s start by honoring that there is a wide variety of normal as to when signs of fertility return after having a baby. Although, I’ll also note that women who choose to not breastfeed or pump at all (or are unable to) or those experiencing a loss should see signs of ovulation within 6-8 weeks after giving birth.

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What Every Woman Needs to Know about Fertility Awareness

flower bud - What Every Woman Needs to Know about Fertility Awareness

Less than 4 years ago, I distinctly remember discussing the Fertility Awareness Method with a gynecologist after a brief pelvic exam. It was my first, and last, encounter with this particular female doctor. She asked the question that every woman in America gets asked at these appointments: “What are you using for birth control?” In my experience, unless you are already on the pill, this is usually followed by: “Are you interested in getting on birth control (aka hormonal contraceptives)?”

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