This post has been updated for 2019!
I wrote a post about pregnancy signs while breastfeeding which is extremely popular. Many women want to know if it’s even possible to get pregnant while breastfeeding, and many want to hear more about any possible symptoms of pregnancy while breastfeeding.
If you are hoping to get pregnant and you are in the two week wait to test for pregnancy, then you definitely want to know the signs to look for.
Or maybe you are breastfeeding and not even trying to get pregnant, but you had an accident and are worried you could be pregnant. You might be wondering if breastfeeding will help prevent pregnancy.
I can say it is definitely possible to get pregnant while breastfeeding. I personally got pregnant, while still breastfeeding twice.
Since I have this experience I thought I would expand on my original post about pregnancy signs while breastfeeding.
Pregnancy signs while breastfeeding are usually the same as any typical early pregnancy symptoms.
One difference, while it is rare, is that it is possible to get pregnant before your period returns. Since you can ovulate while breastfeeding before your period returns, the absence or presence of a period is not a surefire sign of pregnancy like it is normally.
COMMON SIGNS OF PREGNANCY WHILE BREASTFEEDING:
Here are a list of symptoms I experienced when newly pregnant while breastfeeding.
Fatigue.
I noticed fatigue early on with my second pregnancy. During my third pregnancy I did not notice it as soon. I was breastfeeding during both pregnancies.
Extreme or extra thirsty.
I definitely noticed this symptom. This may have been the earliest and most noticeable symptom with both of my pregnancies while breastfeeding. I am typically thirsty when nursing and even more so when pregnant!
Sore breasts or nipples.
This is a common early symptom whether breastfeeding or not. I have experienced this a ton. But, it was not super early. I am pretty sure it started after I had already missed my period.
Cramping.
This has been an early symptom for me with all of my pregnancies. Breastfeeding or not. I believe it’s related to implantation. Of course we also cramp with our period so it’s not super reliable.
Nausea.
This has been worse for me while breastfeeding. It did not start until after my missed period though. Probably around week 5-6.
Later pregnancy symptoms while breastfeeding
By the time you experience these symptoms there is a good chance you will already know you are pregnant. They don’t typically occur until later in the first or even second trimester.
A drop in milk supply.
Your milk supply will diminish when pregnant. I thought it would disappear altogether but I nursed throughout my third pregnancy despite it being low.
A change in milk taste.
My daughter hated the taste of my milk by the time I was 15 weeks along with my son. She then self weaned. My son on the other hand continued breastfeeding while I was pregnant with my third baby.
Hunger.
I am always hungry while pregnant. Is it due to breastfeeding? Maybe not entirely but nursing while pregnant does burn extra calories.
Now that I have done this twice I cannot say there is anything special I have done to increase my chances of getting pregnant while nursing.
While it is possible to get pregnant before your period returns it is not common. Once your period has returned then you can get pregnant even if you are breastfeeding. Breastfeeding should not suppress fertility at all once your cycle has returned.
The main difference for me was that my cycles were all over the place a bit more while breastfeeding. To counter this and up your chances of pregnancy I recommend using an app that will help pinpoint ovulation. I recommend this even if you are not breastfeeding!
My favorites are included here:
Fertility Friend is a great app and site to help nail down ovulation. It includes charting which is recommended when seriously trying to get pregnant or avoid pregnancy.
Glow and Ovia are nice apps with calendars that are easy to use to track your period and ovulation.
If you are trying to get pregnant another MUST HAVE product is an OPK. I am sure you know what those are, but if not, they are ovulation predictor kits. They measure the LH hormone surge that usually occurs before ovulation.
You will want to test before you think you may ovulate until you get a positive test indicating that you are about to ovulate. Once you get a positive OPK you know what that means. (Get busy!)
Since OPKs at the store can be ridiculously expensive for something you want to take multiple times a cycle I recommend these cheap ones.
These show two dark lines to indicate they are positive (like a pregnancy test). They can be a little tricky to read in that sometimes you may wonder if the line is dark enough to be positive.
If you are willing to spend a bit more the Clear Blue OPK is no fail since it uses a smiley face instead of two lines to let you know it’s positive.
I could go on and on about OPK’s and how helpful they are in getting pregnant. In fact I believe I will dedicate an entire post to them since it is an interesting subject (for those trying to get pregnant ha).
I hope this post helps expand on my pregnancy signs while breastfeeding article. As always please let me know if you have any questions or comments!
When did your period return? My daughter is 10 months old and I’m still breastfeeding 4-5 times just during the day as she sleeps all night. No period yet, although have had 2 times of cramping and numerous other symptoms. I work out every morning and have no past history with any medical conditions. Symptoms include excessive urinating and thirst, facial flushing, emotional, fatigued, hungry. I had cramping one week ago for 2-3 days and my uterus was tender. I also felt bloated. I tested last week and negative. I will test again tomorrow. Could my symptoms be my hormones trying to regulate or what is your opinion?
Thanks!
My guess is probably hormones all over the place. It could take awhile for your period to return. It is really all over the place although going all night without feeding usually seemed to help mine return. The first baby it returned around 9 months and the second one was just over a year. Take another test in a week or so but if nothing then it’s probably hormones! Good luck.
Hi
I AM BREASTFEEDING STILL MY BABY WILL BE TWO SOON BUT SINCE TWO WEEKS AGO I HAVE BEEN NOTICING SOME BROWN STICKY STUFF AFTER I PEE AND WIPE,THEN IN THIS WEEK FOR TWO DAYS I EXPERIENCED VERY LIGHT BUT PINK BLOOD ALONG WITH THE BROWN STICKY STUFF THEN I HAD A CLEAR DISCHARGE FOR ONE DAY AND CRAMPING IN MY LOWER ABDOMEN I’M NOT SURE WHAT IS HAPPENING AS I DID NOT GET ANY PERIOD SINCE BF.
Hi, so if you did not have a period and think you could be pregnant definitely test! At almost two years old you can probably get pregnant while breastfeeding if not using protection and that spotting does not sound like a normal period. Maybe implantation bleeding?
This is so old but were you pregnant?
Hi Jen. I am currently still breastfeeding my 12 month old son. I’ve had three cycles thus far. I’m supposed to get my period pretty soon, but some things seem a little different this time. I’m wondering how many times a day were you breastfeeding your babies when you got pregnant again? Also, (if this is tmi you don’t have to answer) did you notice an increase in cervical fluid or was there little to no CF when you noticed your earliest signs of pregnancy? Thanks for your help!
Hi Randi,
I believe I was nursing a few times a day with both when I got pregnant. It’s hard to remember with my daughter she was just over 1 so it was probably more frequently than my son. With him it was maybe two or three times a day and he was 20 months. As for CF, I think it was probably less when nursing than before and I didn’t notice much change! Hope this helps!
Thanks for your help, Jen! You say you had fatigue and nausea with your pregnancies. I was wondering how long did the fatigue and nausea last in any given day early on? Was it all day long or did come and go over the course of the day? Thanks for answering my questions. I too am obsessed over my symptoms! ?
Hi Randi,
It definitely came and went throughout the day. The nausea did not start too early either, more like 5-6 weeks pregnant. I think the fatigue was right away!
I am breastfeeding my baby she almost four months old I had very little spotting with some cramping for about two days never had to ues a pad and the past week I have noticed Iam very very tired not survif I was my period
Hi Sarah, it may have been your period but not sure since that would be a little early while breastfeeding. Good luck!
My daughter is 8 months old and breastfed. I must be a rae one because I just found out I’m pregnant and have yet to have my period return since breastfeeding! The don’t even know why I tested my husband just out of the blue said I think your pregnant!! How crazy is that!?
This makes me nervous! I have an 8 month old. I exclusively breastfeed when I am home. However, i returned full time to work at 3 months and started supplementing during my time away at about 4 1/2 months. I have yet to get my period. I had my husband get me some cheap pregnancy tests and one was positive the other was negative. I then purchased the more expensive ones and got 3 more negatives. Everything I read is that it is rare to get a false positive. What are your thoughts on this. I havent had any lab work done so i am in the “waiting” game.
Hi, it is super rare to get a false positive but if all the other tests are negative it could be false. I have had false positives in the past with the cheap tests. Sometimes the dye runs on them and ends up where the line would be. I would just say keep testing and it should be clear soon. Without the return of your period it’s uncommon to get pregnant too but not impossible. Good luck!
Hi, i was spotting brownish CM on the day ny AF is due. Would you think its implantation? I am now 1 week late and still a BFN. But i have all those symptoms stated. Clueless. Do you happen to spot and got a BFP straight away?
I did spot with one of my pregnancies but I also got a BFP right away every time I have been pregnant. Is it possible your dates are off for AF? Maybe test again.. good luck!!
Hey Jen, I’m just curious if breastfeeding could cause later implantatio? I’m currently 11dpo and still bfn. I tested at 10dpo with my first and got a bfp. She is now going to be 1 on the 15th of March. This is my second cycle. I hope I’m pregnant!!
Hi Ashley,
I don’t recall it causing later implantation for me. I do believe the luteal phase (2nd phase of cycle after ovulation) can be shorter when still breastfeeding. I remember when I got pregnant with my 2nd that my luteal phases were really short and I was sure I could not get pregnant but I did! Not sure how that might affect implantation but maybe it’s possible you ovulated later than you think? Good luck!! Let me know how the tests turn out.
Well my lovely period showed it’s face. Just wasn’t meant to be this cycle. The good thing though is that my period has seemed to completely regulated itself to my normal 28day cycle. I think this cycle I’m going to focus more on finding out when I ovulate. Thank you so much for your article though, for it helps me and gives me hope I can get pregnant breastfeeding. This is only going to be my 3rd cycle ttc so I’m not at the discouraged point yet. 🙂
Sorry AF showed up! It is great that your cycles have regulated. Try to focus on ovulation and you can definitely get pregnant while breastfeeding! Good luck.
Hi jen! I am currently breastfeeding my 5 month old son and I have yet to have a period.My fiance and I had a little mishap and now I am worried I may be pregnant again. i
I have been having some cramping, nausea, and exhaustion (of course that could be from caring for a 1.5 year old and a 5 month old!). The mishap took place 16 days ago and sincetheni have taken 2 negative tests. Do you feel that they are accurate or should I wait awhile and test again?
Hi Krystal,
If you have not gotten your period back yet then you are most likely fine. It’s rare to ovulate and catch it before you see your period at all but it is possible. The tests are probably accurate but maybe take one more in a few days to a week to be sure! Good luck.
Hi Jen,
I am currently breastfeeding my 12mth old daughter. She does not take a bottle so I nurse her every 4-6 hours. I became pregnant with her while breadtfeeding my son. He was 8mths at the time. I haven’t had AF in over three years. My husband and I got pregnant on our wedding night (or honeymoon). We want to have another and I can’t wean our daughter because she will not drink formula or dairy milk from a cup. She didn’t drink breastmilk, when I was pumping, from a bottle or cup either. Not sure what to do. I feel like the stretch between feelings has been long enough for me to ovulate. My cervix seems closed all the time and CM is never too egg whitish. I guess fertility hasn’t returned yet. Any advice on how to increase my chances. I am pretty intuned that if my body was going to ovulate even before AF rears her long lost head, I would be aware and get busy!!!
Hi! I didn’t get AF back with my second until after 1 year and with my first it was around 10 months I believe. I do think it sounds like your feedings are stretched out enough that you should be able to ovulate. Is she still nursing at night? Sometimes night weaning can bring AF. Otherwise I believe the only thing you can do is continue to stretch the feedings out and wait a few more months. She might show more interest in a cup in the next couple of months too. I would keep trying with the cups. Have you tried Zoli? My kids both loved those around 1 year. Good luck!
My period returned the following month I gave birth. We are TTCing for #2 and its just not happening. Is something wrong with me?
How long have you been trying? If your period returned then breastfeeding should not be preventing you from getting pregnant but there are so many reasons it can take awhile. It’s only a 1 in 4 chance of hitting it each month roughly. Good luck!! The best course is to talk to your Dr. if it’s been awhile.
Hi. Thanks for these posts. I’m currently breastfeeding and i have some of the symptoms you mentioned, but i haven’t had a period since giving birth. My son is 13 months old. I should also say that I was on birth control for a year b/c I had an emergency Cesarean. The doctor said I should’ve spotted while taking it, but i didn’t, so i just assumed my period didn’t come back. Do you think i could be pregnant? When can i take a pregnancy test? I think I’ve noticed symptoms for about 2, maybe 3 weeks now.
Hi, Sorry for the delay responding! It’s really hard to say since you did not ever get a period. It is possible to get pregnant before you see your period return but rare. Are you still taking the birth control? If so I would think it’s unlikely. I would just go ahead and take a test. If it’s negative wait a week or two and take another. Good luck!
Hi
My daughter will be 5mths at the end of the month. Ive been having pregnancy symptoms for about 3 weeks now. My husband noticed before I did and asked if I was pregnant. Symptoms are getting worse but im still getting negative test results. My period returned 2 mths PP and then skipped a month before having a very light period 4mths PP. its now a week since I should have had my period and still no sign and negative tests. Could all the symptoms be my hormona regulating or is there chance breastfeeding is causing falae negatives? Ive started getting really weak after feeding my daughter and I feel like supply is getting lower
Breastfeeding will not cause a false negative pregnancy test. Once your period returns you are fertile though so breastfeeding shouldn’t factor into it too much at all. It’s possible your hormones are still regulating and your cycle may be off for awhile. I would say as long as the tests are negative you are most likely not pregnant. But, keep testing in another week or so if still no period. After that you may want to check with your doctor if still no period. Good luck!
I was wondering what sort of changes in behaviour you noticed in your baby that was still breastfeeding? I’ve been noticing my baby is nursing like crazy all of a sudden, also that she keeps switching from breast to breast. She’s also been teething, but my breast feel very sensitive …not so much the breast as a whole but specifically my nipples. I also just started feeling very nautious as of today…. do you think I could be more sensitive because she’s teething? Or should I test? My baby is 17 months and I only got my period back once since I had her… let me know what you think?! Thanks in advance!
Hi, I don’t remember much change in either of my babies early on in my pregnancies. My first baby did wean after the first trimester but I don’t recall much change before then. My second baby was also nursed while pregnant with my third and it never changed much. Sorry if that is not much help! If you think there is a chance of pregnancy I would test!
HI , my baby has just turned a year old this august, I had my period for the first time on july 19th, it lasted about 5 days. and about a week later I noticed some pink when I wiped. and I never thought anything of it. then all of a sudden my nipples were so sore when my son would feed. but I pushed through it . still thinking nothing of it. but now my period is late . I took a pregnancy test yesterday and it said negative. just wondering how long should I wait to take another test ?
Hi Courtney,
Maybe a few days? I would think if you were pregnant you would get a positive test by now but you never know. Maybe wait 4 or 5 more days. Your cycle might just be off since it was your first period. Mine was pretty crazy for awhile after my first baby. Good luck!
Hi,
I’m trying to get pregnant while breastfeeding my 2 year old. My period came back on my little one’s 2nd birthday but has not returned since then. It’s been over a month, I felt and still feel nauseated every morning for the past few weeks. My breasts were so sore last week but fine now. I did a pregnancy test last week and got a faint line for positive however I’ve tested every day since then and up to a week later all the tests are negative.
Hi Alicia, if you had a positive test then negative it’s possible it was a chemical pregnancy which is a super early miscarriage usually before your period is due. Your cycle is probably not consistent right now. I actually had this happen after my second child 40 plus day cycles and positive then negative tests. Unfortunately all you can do is wait your period is probably pretty close. It usually took a few months for my cycle to become more consistent after my first and second baby. Good luck!
I forgot to mention I am extremely bloated.
Howdy. How common is it for a currently breastfeeding baby/toddler to dislike the change in taste of the bm once mama becomes pregnant again? Do they always stop bf’g (then how do women tandem breastfeed?!)?
How far into the pregnancy does the bm flavor change?
Hi, I believe the taste changes around 12-16 weeks pregnant, maybe even 20 but usually in the second tri. I was nursing my first baby while pregnant and she abruptly weaned when I was 14 weeks. My second child, my son, never weaned during my third pregnancy so he didn’t seem to mind the taste change. I am tandem nursing but he only nurses once a day and I don’t feed them at the same time so it’s pretty easy.
Im currently 2 months pp and i havent got my period but im currently breastfeeding 24/7 i had a accident with husband 5 weeks ago i took a pregnancy test and it came out negative but it was from the dollar store can i be pregnant
Hi, if your period has not returned and you are nursing then it’s doubtful that your fertility has returned. If your test was negative I would trust it! Maybe test again in a week to assure yourself but most likely not pregnant. Good luck!
Hi. I’ve been searching for an article like yours because i breastfeed my 3 month old son during the day, he sleeps the whole night without feeding. I got my first period back on august 21, 2016, and before i got pregnant with my son my periods were irregular, but started to regulate itself. I use the first response app to follow my ovulation and expected periods, and so far according to the app, i’m now 16 days past ovulation and 3 days late for my period. I haven’t tested yet but i have symptoms from fatigue to tired all the time, hungry, restless for three weeks, then tired and have to force myself out of bed, i pee alot, extra thirsty, emotional, gums started bleeding yesterday, craving potatoes and ice cream, bloated, cramping, pressure like a period but of course no period, face breaking out, constipated one day, then the next bg’s (sorry tmi) i was wondering if i could possibly be pregnant again, since my husband and i have been trying since july 10, 2016, any answers would help? i’m hoping i am and it’s not just me obsessing over being pregnant again
It’s definitely possible if you have had your period back and you are late. Trying to get pregnant while breastfeeding is pretty much the same as trying when not breastfeeding as long as your period has returned. It may be that your cycle is still regulating though and that could cause the lateness. Only way to know for sure is to test! Good luck!
Hi Jen,
How are you?
I’ve breastfed and formula fed my son up until he was 9 months old. I’ve had a period for the last 5 months. However, when he turned 9 months old he stopped drinking his formula so I’ve been EBF for the last 3-4 weeks. It’s now October and my period is late! When I was suppose to get my period I was sick with body aches, very sore and painful nipples, very bad cramps, extremely hungry & thirsty, emotional, energy less and gassy for about two days. Now I feel better just mild cramps, thirsty, hungry more than the usual. I haven’t tested because I feel like AF will show up since the last two months of my cycle have been slightly irregular. But what do you think Jen? I’m going to test eventually if AF doesn’t show.. But do you think I should wait a while longer?
Hi Martha,
You definitely could be pregnant if you have been having a period for awhile now and are not using protection. If AF is late you could go ahead and test or wait a little longer. If it was me I probably would not be able to wait haha. The symptoms sounds like they could be pregnancy but it’s hard to know early on. Good luck!
Hello,
This is a little bit of a ‘different’ question than I have been reading above…
My daughter is 8 months old, and we never fully got the hang of nursing, so I have been solely pumping breastmilk for about 6 months. I pump 5 times a day, and still have a sufficient milk supply.
My period has not yet returned, nor have I had any signs of it. My question is, (and it may not be appropriate to ask) When you got pregnant while breastfeeding, were you using any contraception or practicing the ‘pull out method?’ my husband usually pulls out, and claims there have been no accidents, but I just started feeling a little nauseous tonight. So I am just curious about the possibility of being pregnant even if he does not fully ejaculate inside of me… I apologize, if this question is too personal, feel free to ignore it.
Hi Shayna,
I was not using any contraception when I got pregnant while breastfeeding. I wanted to get pregnant again when I was going for my second baby. If your period has not returned and you are being careful you are probably not pregnant but anything is possible even if it’s rare! Good luck.
Curious as to your thoughts on this: I got my period back at about 5 1/2 weeks postpartum — I was/am EBF, but I think it returned so early because of an event I had to attend where I pumped ONCE and she had two bottles during that time (before, I always pumped immediately after feeds). I then had a regular, light period with a few days of PMS before for the following 3 months.
I am now 4 months postpartum and haven’t had a period — I’d be roughly a week or so overdue for my period. All BFNs when I’ve taken tests. My symptoms have slowly morphed from PMS to “Wait, is this pregnancy?” including my daughter fussing more at the breast, me feeling extremely fatigued, sore nipples, and some random bouts of nausea.
Factors that make me unsure of things one way or the other:
1. Since we dropped the ball on giving my daughter a bottle, she no longer will take one, so she has only been nursing.
2. Uh, we… have had unprotected sex this whole time. We’ve been doing the pull out method, so I know that’s hardly effective. But at the same time, my husband’s been traveling more this month too, so less sex…
Hi, so that’s a hard one! If the tests are negative you probably are not pregnant but it’s odd that you haven’t had your period since it has been regular otherwise. I would probably wait a few days and test again. If it’s still negative maybe your period has changed, since you are only four months postpartum it could still be regulating.
Hi! Would like to know your outcome to this poat since I’m experiencing the exact same thing!
3 pregnancy tests, all negative. Bouts of nausea as well….
Hi, I don’t think we ever got an update!
I have a 5 month old daughter who I am still nursing and yet to have a period. At the end of September I decided to start tracking my ovulation with a kit I still had from before I got pregnant. The kit had 10 sticks, so to stretch it out over a month, I decided to check every 3rd day. I have the clear blue digital, so it tells you 2 days leading up to the peak and 2 days at the peak. I took the test on a Monday of week 2 of testing, and it was negative. Took it again on Thursday and it was at the peak. My husband and I had sex the day before, I wasn’t thinking I would even ovulate this month, or if so when. It’s been 2 weeks since the peak day. On Sunday I took a pregnancy test cause I had an extra one as well, and it was negative. My question to you is, do you get a period if you ovulated? Or can you ovulate and not get a period? Did I test too soon, and should I test later?
Hi Lisa,
Wow, that is a little confusing! Since your period has not officially returned it would be unlikely you have ovulated yet. But, it could be possible you caught the first ovulation and will get your period. I believe if you are ovulating you should get a period (but I am not a doctor so can’t say for sure if there are rare cases of ovulation with no period!) If you did ovulate and had sex then you could get pregnant without ever seeing a period. I would maybe wait a couple days and test again but if no period and no pregnancy I am not sure. Maybe wait and see what happens next month, your body may still be regulating itself.
Hi! Im nursing my 7 month old and my periods haven’t returned since birth. Last month I had bright red blood when I wiped (once) but that was it… The past week I’ve had noticeable discharge that smells almost sweet, which is weird cuz while breastfeeding I’ve had zero discharge up til now. Then the past week on & off I’ve been having bouts of fatigue and slight nausea. I had tested negative but today my lower abdomen has felt really tight along with cramping (back & and front). I don’t wanna keep testing if it’s too early bcuz I haven’t had a period, So idk when I would’ve technically missed a period. The main things are the discharge and tightness in abdomen. Did you experience those? Thanks
Hi,
I think it’s possible that maybe the discharge and cramps could be ovulation and maybe your period is getting ready to return. I do not recall those symptoms as being early pregnancy symptoms for me but it could be possible you have gotten pregnant since you are not tracking and unsure. I would say try testing again in a few days to a week and if it’s still negative probably wait and see for another month. Good luck!
Hi Jen!
I am almost 4 months postpartum, I am EBF, and at my 6 week checkup I recieved the mini-pill for contraception. I waited about 4 days before taking it, and then waited a week after taking it before doing the deed. Here recently I have been cramping with sore nipples, but no spotting or any other symptoms mentioned. Could I still be pregnant? Boyfriend didn’t ejaculate in me and ended ip having to finish himself because baby woke up screaming (unless it was pre-cum and I didn’t know).
Also to add that I was only on the mini-pill for a month and have not since done the deed since I haven’t been using it anymore.
Hi Sally,
Have you had your period return at all? If not and you are taking the mini pill I think you are most likely not pregnant. Even if your period had returned I believe you are most likely safe. I am not sure how long it takes for the mini pill to take effect though but the exclusive breastfeeding means you probably have not ovulated yet anyway. Good luck!
Hey I am breastfeeding my baby is almost 11months old and I have been on the mini pill for just over 2 months now I got my period in September and it was very upside down now I haven’t seen my period at all this month and I’m almost past the longest cycle amount. I have nausea and am very tired and moreally thirsty than usual. I hope I am not pregnant again but I’m not sure as the symptoms are there. Wold u test or not.
Kind regards
I would test! It’s unlikely you are pregnant if you are on the mini pill but anything is possible and testing is the only way to know for sure. Good luck!
My baby is 4 months old and exclusively breastfed but sleeping through the night. My period came back at 8 weeks, so I’ve had 2 complete cycles since and seems to be at its usual 29/30 day cycle. Af is 3 days late and have had pregnancy tests that I’m not sure if i was seeing lines or it was my imagination haha fingers crossed for a real positive soon. Do I have a real chance of it being a pregnancy?
Hi,
If your period has returned and you are now late yes you have a real chance of being pregnant! It would be pretty early after having a baby but it can happen. Take more tests to be sure! Good luck.
Hi Jen!! I am a breastfeeding mom to an almost 12month old baby girl. I exclusively breastfed her until she started eating solid foods. I still breastfeed her now but it’s only at her bedtime and if she wakes during the night. I haven’t had a period yet so I’m not sure if I’m ovulating. However, I noticed some spotting (light pink/brownish) off and on for 1.5 days and then mild cramps. I assumed this was the start of my first post partum period but it stopped. Then I read that the spotting could be caused by a drop in milk supply. My milk supply has been down but I assumed it was because my little one was away with her grandparents for a week. I saw your blog and now I’m wondering if the spotting and decrease in milk supply could mean that I’m pregnant. Did you have spotting and decrease in milk supply before your period returned while breastfeeding? Do you think it’s probably implantation bleeding? Would u take a test or not? If so, how long should I wait before testing? Thank you sooo much for your help and for helping other breastfeeding moms that are trying to conceive!!
Hi Brooke,
It’s been so long it’s hard for me to remember but I think I did have some implantation spotting with two of my pregnancies. I did not notice a drop in milk supply until farther along in the pregnancies – like 12 weeks, but it is possible or it may just be normal from the age of your baby. I always got my period back before getting pregnant while breastfeeding though. Without a period it would be really hard to know without testing. So maybe wait a couple of weeks and test? Or test now if you think you could be pregnant already. Good luck!
Hello Jen,
So my little girl is 3 mos, I do breastfeed her, but we also supplement with formula. I’d say I probably breastfeed 4-5 times a day, and here lately I have started having to supplement with formula even after because she gets very fussy at the breast after nursing for about 10-15 minutes but still acts hungry. I have not had my period return yet, and I am on the mini-pill. However, I skipped on these pills for about 4 days (oops!) and took 2 at one time one evening. The following morning me and my boyfriend did the deed and there were no preventative measures taken as far as he’s concerned. A day later I spotted a very tiny amount, like went to the bathroom, wiped, saw reddish pink, then nothing after that. I am now drinking my weight in water feeling dehydrated most of the time, running back and forth to the bathroom, feeling pretty crampy/pelvic fullness in the abdomen and back, and am having some issues breastfeeding (as mentioned above). Would you think it’d be possible for me to even be pregnant?
Hi sorry for the delay replying. If you have not had your period yet you are probably not likely to get pregnant. Since you are only three months postpartum. The mini pill is not effective if you miss doses so I am going off of the lack of period and being newly postpartum. Anything is possible though and the only way to know for sure is to test. If you want take a test about two weeks after you had sex just to make sure! Good luck.
Hi, i have a question…my son is 7 months old and teething and also on solid foods…i breastfeed him twice a day, sometimes once a day. I feed him in the morning and night and solids the rest of the day. I got my periods back 2 months pp and has a period every month until nov. 16 when it was a weird 4 day bleed instead of a normal 7 day bleed..i haven’t had a period since and my last test was jan.4 and it was negative. I feel as though im not ovulating and i havent been ttc or really worried about it cuz i was driving myself crazy..i wanna test but i dont know if i should..i went on a diet and cleaned up what i eat and i thought i lost weignt but i actually gained weight..i get nauseous and dizzy from time to time but nothing severe. I get abdominal cramps and ot fewls like pinching sometimes but i feel it and dont think anything of it so im not breaking my own heart woth another negative test..what do you think could be the problen??
Hmm that is strange. By now a test should be positive if you are pregnant. I understand not wanting to test again but I would just to make sure. If you changed your eating habits that could even be enough to disrupt your cycle. It could be something else going on besides pregnancy. Good luck!
Hi I am exclusively breastfeeding my nearly nine month old. At the beginning of march me and my boyfriend did the deed a few times for the first time pp. A few days after the first time I started feeling off I couldn’t explain what it was so I ignored it.
But since then my breasts have been sensitive, tender and they seem bigger and heavier, I’ve been getting a lot of headaches, acid, cramps, moody, gassy and (tmi) but loose stools I’ve also been feeling sick through the day. I haven’t had a period since I conceived her so I was just wondering do you think there is a chance?
Also she seems to be shortening her feeding times and the amount of feeds she has through out the day and night.
Hi, there is a chance if you happened to ovulate at the same time you had unprotected sex even if your period has not returned yet. But it’s not that common. The symptoms you are experiencing could also be because your period is getting ready to return. The only way to know for sure is to take a test. Good luck!
Hi. I literally just stopped breastfeeding my 20 month old on Tuesday and period was also due Tuesday. I did see pink then red on Thursday, but it went to dark brown the last few days. I know the answer is to test cause I have 5 children already, and i am hungry!!! That deepirritating hunger. I just feel like I should wait til a week late, plis I am nervous to know!!!! Would you test now or wait?
By the way, i have actually always had the spotting on or after thecycle due date, never before. I assume that means my ovulation is a bit different.
If it was me I probably would not be able to wait and would test now. It’s hard waiting! If you weaned that could have maybe affected the timing of your period because your hormones are off but I am not sure, I have not actually ever weaned before getting pregnant again. Good luck!
Hi Jen,
Thanks for the great post! My baby is 4 months old and exclusively breastfed. I have not had my period yet, but the last two weeks my nipples have been extremely sore. Breastfeeding has become extremely painful. I pump and give bottles while at work and the last two days my milk was a different color than usually (more yellowish). I had a cold last week and terrible headaches. No other symptoms noted. Do you think I’m pregnant or is it just a result from my cold? (What about the sore nipples?)
Hi, if you are exclusively breastfeeding and have not had your period I doubt you are pregnant. I am not sure about the sore nipples though but it could be your supply went down a bit while you had your cold so maybe your baby was nursing more or harder to up your supply a bit. Or your period could be getting ready to return too. It’s hard to say. If you are worried you can always take a test! good luck.
Hi,
I am still EBF my 10 month old. He still wakes up 1-2 times at night to feed. I have had my period back since July. We want to have another baby. I am wondering if i can be pregnant. I am tired and thirsty. I do not have any other symptoms. I didn’t have any symptoms with my first pregnancy. I still have a 5 more days before AF is due.
If you’ve had your period back and are having sex than yes you could be pregnant! Only way to know for sure is to wait and see of course. I got pregnant while breastfeeding twice so it’s definitely possible..I did not have many symptoms until after my period was due. Good luck.
Thank you. But I guess my cycles are still not regular. May be next month. 🙂
Hi,
My name is shawntel. I currently breast-feeding a 13 month old. About a month and a half ago I had spotting that was a light pink with some brown mucus. Then about two weeks ago I had a dark red with brown mucus when I wiped it lasted about two days and then it stopped. There was a time during intercourse a week ago we were having intercourse without protection and then when he got to the point where he felt like he was going to ejaculate he put a condom on and we continued. We also do that again a day ago… And that night I felt really nauseous, and I woke up feeling nauseous and fatigued, and I have also been really thirsty. I don’t really want to buy test only because I hate doing the walk of shame. Lol
So I’m just curious to what you think, could I be pregnant? I’m feeling fatigue nausea and really thirsty, so I’m just wondering is it my hormones or could it be. Getting ready to start up or put this pregnancy
Hi, so it’s hard for me to say. Unfortunately with hormones and pregnancy and periods so many symptoms can mimic each other. If you have been having unprotected sex and your period already returned awhile ago then it’s definitely possible to get pregnant easily. Even if you are nursing. If your period had not returned already then these symptoms and bleeding could be your body getting ready for that. I know you don’t want to test but it’s the only way to know for sure! Or wait and see what happens for another couple of weeks. Good luck!
PS, sorry for the grammar errors.
Thank you so much for this information page!! I’m not actually looking to get pregnant. My daughter is 15months, eats only twice a day otherwise just breastfed and my period returned a couple of months ago. I have a 28day cycle and today is the first day of my missed period. I tested twice, once yesterday and again this morning but both times came up negative. I had cramping 4 days ago and very tiny specks of pink blood when I wipe. Still no period. How soon did you test to get a positive result?
Sorry I’ve also been feeling bloated, have uncontrollable flatulence, been extremely thirsty, eating a lot more than usual and had tiredness. Me and my partner had intercourse mid cycle.
Hi, sorry for the delayed response! I usually get a positive pregnancy test before my period is due so if your period is late and you are getting negative tests you are most likely not pregnant. But you are having sex and it’s possible for sure. Continuing to test is the only way to know for sure.
Hello! So I’ve been bf my 6 month old not exclusively because I work and baby sleeps through the night. But when I’m with him I do bf. Any how my periods have always been irregular so when I got pregnant with my youngest I was very shocked especially the fact that the dr said 15 years ago I couldn’t have any more kids. But now I had a weak moment about 4 weeks ago and now I’m getting nauseous every time baby nurses. Headaches during the day (which I never get head aches) I’m very hungry but when I eat I wish I hadn’t. Taken 5 tests 2 invalid 2 negative and 1, I believe, had a light line!! Should I wait to take another test in a week or leave it be??
Hmm do you know when your period would be due? I think if you got a light line it is possible you are pregnant. You usually don’t get a false positive. I would wait maybe 24 hours and then test again. Good luck!
Hi Jen! My name is Kim. I have been breastfeeding my son for almost 17 months now (2/10). I had my first period 12/25/17. I have been fatigued, eating/drinking more, no cramps or sore nipples. I have noticed that my son has been nursing more often and my breasts just feel drained. Sometimes he nurses and gets angry and points to my breast. Not sure if that means something. Yesterday I realized there would only be one more day in the month to expect a period (still waiting as we speak). What do you think? I’m not extremely overjoyed to be pregnant again right now, so I am a bit reluctant to take a test.
Hi Kim, Sorry for the delay responding, somehow I missed this comment and you may have your answer by now! If your period has returned and you are having unprotected sex then yes it’s possible you could be pregnant. Once it returns it’s definitely best to use protection if you do not want to get pregnant again bc breastfeeding will not prevent you from getting pregnant in any way. That said, the symptoms could be pregnancy or just your hormones leveling out. I also was not real regular with my periods for the first few months after it’s return so that could be why you are late too. The only way to know for sure is to test of course!
Hey Jen! I am trying to conceive and I am currently breastfeeding my son who is 7 months almost 8 months. My period started back in December and has been a regular 26-28 day cycle. My last period was March 12th. I should be getting it again April 8th or so. My symptoms have been fatigue, head aches, cramping, milky discharge, and sore nipples. My question to you, based on my information. Do you think I’m pregnant or is mother nature right around the corner ?? Waiting to test is so miserable!!
Hi Alyson, I wish I could tell you but I can’t haha. I will say cramps and fatigue are always symptoms for me when pregnant. I think sore nipples too but those usually come later. It’s really hard to tell but luckily you can test soon! Good luck.
Hiya. A very interesting read – thank you! Another confusing situation, wondered if you had any thoughts.
I’m breastfeeding my 15mo mostly just during the night. My cycle returned when he was around 6 weeks and has been regular since he was 4mo, albeit a 31-33 day cycle. This month I’m 8 days late (CD40 today) and have been testing over the past few days but all negative (tests mostly cheapies, and one clearblue). Only symptoms would be extreme fatigue, urinating frequently, cramping – but they are the same as I had in early pregnancy with baby #1. Didn’t have any sore boob symptoms then and very little nausea. But if I am pregnant I’d expect to have got a positive by now, and if not I’d expect my period as I’ve been regular for over a year. Any thoughts? Thanks
Hi sorry for the delay responding! I do believe if you are getting negative tests you are most likely not pregnant. With a regular period it is confusing though. I have occasionally missed periods since breastfeeding and having my period return. In my case I believe it was due to stress and I did not ovulate so that could be a possibility too. If you definitely want to rule pregnancy out get a blood test from a doctor. Good luck!
Hi Jen. I have two boys (age 2.5 and 6 months) whom I still breastfeed. 6 weeks ago we made the decision that we did not want any more children now, so my husband went for a vasectomy. 2 weeks after the procedure we went on holiday and I had to express milk during these 10 days to prevent mastitis and keep my supply up. We had unprotected intercourse while we were on holiday as I did not yet have a cycle back. About 2 weeks after our return, I had some vaginal discharge (brownish in color and enough to make me think my period had returned, but it did not). I also had cramping a few times and a popping sensation over my uterus. I’m extremely irritable and emotional and I struggle with fatigue. Does it sound to you like I might be pregnant?
Hi, I don’t know how long it takes for a vasectomy to be good protection? At six months postpartum and without your period returning you are probably protected though and not likely to ovulate and get pregnant yet. The symptoms alone do sound like they could be pregnancy but I doubt you are pregnant. You never know for sure though so if it makes you feel better take a test about two weeks later. Good luck!
Hi Jen, informative post. I find myself in a similar situation to some of above posters. I am almost 4 months pp and am both breastfeeding/formula. I have not yet had a period since becoming pregnant last year. We had a moment of madness 31/05/18 (17days ago) and did not use protection. I took an emergency contraceptiv( Ellaone pill) on the 5th day after intercourse.(can be used upto 5 days after) I have all the typical pregnancy symptoms, mainly nausea although I’m hoping this is because I’m worried and stressing as we are not ready for another baby. Around day 15 after intercourse I noticed slight tinge of pinkish in my CF. I also thought maybe my period is returning. You say that it is rare and because I’ve had no period and the fact that I took the emergency pill, I’m hoping I will be ok. I know I should just take the test but would value your opinion before I do. Also is it to early to test ? Many thanks in advance.
Hi Jen, informative post. I find myself in a similar situation to some of above posters. I am almost 4 months pp and am both breastfeeding/formula. I have not yet had a period since becoming pregnant last year. We had a moment of madness 31/05/18 (17days ago) and did not use protection. I took an emergency contraceptiv( Ellaone pill) on the 5th day after intercourse.(can be used upto 5 days after) I have all the typical pregnancy symptoms, mainly nausea although I’m hoping this is because I’m worried and stressing as we are not ready for another baby. Around day 15 after intercourse I noticed slight tinge of pinkish in my CF. I also thought maybe my period is returning. You say that it is rare and because I’ve had no period and the fact that I took the emergency pill, I’m hoping I will be ok. I know I should just take the test but would value your opinion before I do. Also is it to early to test ? Many thanks in advance.
Hi, I think you are probably okay since your period has not returned and especially with the emergency contraceptive but if you want to be 100% sure then yes test! I don’t think it’s too early if it was 17 days ago. Good luck!
Thank you so much, I just had the courage to test and 2 test had negative result. I hope I’m not testing to early but at this stage it’s 19 days since the deed. I’m just nervous because I don’t know what my cycle is or when I would have ovulated. I hope this result is legitimate. Thanks for your advice.
Hi, True since you do not know if you ovulated it’s hard to know the right time to test. Most likely if you were ovulating when you did it though you would have a positive test by now. If it makes you feel better you could wait another two weeks and take one more test. Good luck!
Thanks for getting back to me Jen. Much appreciated!
Hi… I have a 3 month old baby girl.. My periods return back after 1 month… And that one is very very light one… And also my bleeding after delivery also lasts for 4 or 5 days.. Its my second girl… And after that my period came after 1 month.. That time also its light, but much better than the first one… Last period is on June 22 and last about 7 days… Me n my husband had an accident.. But we use an ECP within 24 hours.. And after that on my girl 3 month plunket appointment, they said that her weight is not good, maybe because my Milk supply is not gud… Will it be possible that I’m pregnant..?
Hi,
If you used the ECP I doubt you are pregnant. Plus it has not been four weeks since june 22 and it would take longer for your milk supply to drop. I did not notice a supply drop until 12 weeks pregnant or so. You are probably fine but if you are worried then take a test after 4 weeks from the last period. Good luck!
I was waiting for my husband to give me the green light to stop taking my pill and start trying for baby 2. I finally got the go ahead a month before our son turned 1. I started doing research and found out it may not be as easy as I thought while nursing still. I got a period after stopping the pill a few weeks later. Now I’m day 35 of that cycle and no AF, i ordered some tests just waiting on the package to come tomorrow hopefully.. How long did your first cycles last? When did they regulate?
Hi, it’s actually hard for me to remember now because it has been a few years but I think it took a few cycles. I got pregnant pretty quickly each time after my period returned even though I was still breastfeeding. If your period has come back come back you have a good chance. Good luck!
So my son is a couple weeks over a year old and I am still nursing. In the last week my son nurses a lot more and doesn’t seem to be getting enough. About 3-4 days ago I was at work and i had to stop what i was doing because i had a really bad pain in my lower abdomen, I feel like I can’t get enough to drink and i am going to the bathroom every hour to hour and a half. I come home from work and take a two hour nap with my son then i am in bed by 8:00 pm. It takes me a half hour to wake up in the morning and i almost fall asleep at work. I have also been feeling very nauseous for the last two days and my nose turns at foods that i have loved my entire life. Could I be pregnant? I have taken two home pregnancy tests and they both say negative.
How long ago do you believe you had unprotected sex? I would say it’s possible depending on the timing. If your period is late and the tests are negative you may have to wait a bit longer and test again. Good luck!
My experience with falling pregnant while breastfeeding was a bit different. I didn’t have any of the symptoms, or a least they could be explained by just having kids already. I was already tired. I got headaches, cramps and moodswings with PMS. I did have a drop in milk supply, but that was well into my second trimester(my milk actually completely dried up). And I didn’t have any breast tenderness, even with my 3rd baby’s pregnancy when I wasn’t breastfeeding. I did, however, ‘feel’ pregnant. I think you can pick up that feeling when you’ve been pregnant before. Wondering if nr4 is surprising us now. Still bf my 9mo old, so seriously hoping it’s a false alarm. Guess we’ll see in a couple of days.
Good luck!
Hi there Jen! I just stumbled across your blog and I just want to say thank you!! All of the info you have posted has been super helpful. You would think being a mom of 3 I would be a seasoned pro at this!! Lol. My period returned when my oldest was 16 months and I continued to nurse and got pregnant when she was 20 months. My second daughter then was 18 months and my period had not yet returned, and I got pregnant with my third! Now here I am, my third girl is now 17 months old and we are wanting to add another! I am currently nursing still and my period has not yet returned and we have been “trying” for a couple weeks with no success yet. Not to say it has t worked though! I have been trying to see if I’m ovulating with a OPK and I have had just no lines as dark as the control lines. My question is did you use an OPK while trying to conceive?? Had your period returned?? I keep thinking that I have to be ovulating since I got pregnant with my third before my period returned but I don’t know!! Thanks so much!
Hi, each time I got pregnant while breastfeeding my period had returned. I did use OPKs except for my third which was more of a “let’s see what happens” baby!
It’s actually pretty rare to get pregnant before your period returns although it can happen as you are proof! I would say keep using the OPKs and trying and I bet your period will return soon and it will be easier. Good luck!
Hi, hope your doing well 🙂
I have a 1 year old and i still breastfeed.
My menstrual cycle returned couple days before she turned 1. I am now 12 days late but all test are negative. Waiting out one more week before i do appointment. I never got any symptoms with me 2 babies except missed cycle. I am currently on a pill while breastfeeding. I couldn’t find if you were on birth control. Is it possible to be pregnant while on the pill and breastfeeding? Have not missed a pill so im confused
Hi Rachel,
I was not on the pill when I got pregnant. If you are on the pill and the tests are negative I would guess your cycle is still off from the breastfeeding. Even once I got my period back I would have erratic cycles some months and seem to skip a cycle occasionally. Sometimes it takes awhile for the hormones to level out. It’s good to know for sure though so definitely go to the apt if you still don’t get it next week. Good luck!
HI Jen… I had my DD 6 months ago and until the last 4 week have nursed her. I still have had no period so my Dr. told me to take a test and go off birth control to try to get it going again. My husband and I have not had intercourse since Ive been off birth control but the pregnancy test I took today said positive. If its rare to get pregnant before your period starts again and being on birth control since week 6 post baby can I be pregnant or can my hormones cause a false positive?
Hi,
I have not heard of hormones causing a false positive. Usually a positive test is a positive test but sometimes there can be something wrong with the test (I once had a false positive due to the test being expired and the dye leaking). I do not think it is your hormones causing a false positive though. I would say try another test and if that is also positive get to the Dr. for a blood test. Good luck!
Hi Jen, I wanted to know if it is possible for me to become pregnant if I am still breastfeeding and have not had my period since I had my son back in August. I was on birth control for a couple days back in December, but I kept forgetting to take them so I just stopped all together. I spotted for a couple days but that was it. Me and my husband had intercourse about a week or so ago and I have been cramping for a couple of days now is it possible that it could be implantation cramping?
It is possible to get pregnant while breastfeeding even if your period has not returned, but only if you catch it on your first ovulation since pregnancy. Once you ovulate you should start to have your period again. So I would say it is unlikely but possible. The only way to know for sure is wait and test in a couple of weeks. Good luck!
Hi Jen! Just came across your blog. Love your post. I am 3months post partum and I breastfeed my son exclusively.Though last month June 2019, I saw not too red light stuff for 2days and I hadn’t had sex by then. What could that be because I wasn’t sure what it was? This month, July(about 2 weeks ago) I had sex and it was the withdrawal method. So for the past 3 days, I’ve had high temperature, feel tired, loss of appetite and discharge, frequent urination since delivery though. and no pains at all. I take OTC pain reliever and it reduces it. Could I be pregnant? Could it be ovulation? Could it be menstruation coming back? Could it be hormones as they sat? What do you think? As I’m a FTM. Also scared to take a PT cos am not ready. My baby is hands full already Thanks in anticipation.
Hi,
Sorry for the delayed response I was out of town for a bit. So, if you are breastfeeding exclusively and only 3 months postpartum I doubt you could be pregnant. You may already know by now since my reply is a little late. Only way to know for sure is to take a test.
Also chills and consideration. Thanks a lot
Also chills and constipation. Thanks a lot
Hey there!
So my son is 9 months old, and my husband and I are wanting to try for baby number two. My periods have come back, but are inconsistant. (Like every 2-3 months instead of every month)
Since my periods are all over the place, can the type of mucus still be a determining factor of fertility?
This week i had egg-white mucus. So im wondering if there is a possibility of me being pregnant?
Let me know yor thoughts! Baby still breast feeds often.. about 4-5 times a day 🙂
Hi,
I would use ovulation predictor tests to try and figure out if and when you are ovulating. The mucus can still be a factor but it’s hard to know for sure since your period is inconsistent. Mine was inconsistent too for a few months. I used OPKs and that helped me. Good luck!