Your journey through motherhood is unique, and understanding how your body’s natural processes can influence breastfeeding is crucial. Here’s some essential information about how changes in your body’s mineral levels during your menstrual cycle can affect breast milk supply, and the role of iron in your overall well-being.
Calcium and Your Menstrual Cycle
During ovulation, leading up to the first few days of your menstrual period, your blood calcium levels gradually decrease. This decrease can impact your milk supply. If you notice a dip in breast milk production correlating with your menstrual cycle, a Calcium/Magnesium supplement might be beneficial. Not only can this supplement aid in stabilizing milk supply, but it’s also been noted to alleviate uterine cramps and premenstrual symptoms such as water retention.
Recommended Dosage
Note, any supplemental Calcium/Magnesium should be taken in a ration of 2:1 Calcium to Magnesium.
- Calcium: Between 500mg and 1500mg
- Magnesium: Between 250mg and 750mg
These should be taken as a combined supplement, not individually, to enhance effectiveness and safety. The exact dosage depends on your diet; higher animal protein intake requires more calcium/magnesium, whereas a vegan/vegetarian diet may only necessitate the lower dose. If your daily calcium needs exceed 500mg, it’s best to split the dosage to enhance absorption, as the body absorbs calcium more efficiently in doses of 500mg or less.
Recommended Products
We often get asked to recommend products. Our clients have found the following products to be effective:
When to Take Your Supplement
Begin supplementation at ovulation and continue through the early days of your menstrual period. For irregular periods, start 14 days after your last cycle begins or consider daily supplementation.
Iron, Menstruation, and Breastfeeding
Menstruation can lead to iron depletion in your body, affecting energy levels and potentially impacting milk supply. Maintaining a balanced iron level is essential for your health and the quality of breast milk. Include iron-rich foods in your diet, such as lean meats, beans, lentils, and fortified cereals, or consider an iron supplement if advised by your healthcare provider.
Recommended products
If iron supplementation is required, we find clients do well with the following products:
Monitoring and Adjustments
Remember, everyone’s body reacts differently. Monitor your body’s response to supplementation and adjust as necessary under the guidance of a healthcare professional. Your well-being is paramount in providing the best care for your baby.
References
- Jean Hailes for Women’s Health provides comprehensive insights into the menstrual cycle and its impact on women’s overall health. For more information, visit Jean Hailes.
- The Royal Australian College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists offers guidelines on postpartum care, highlighting the first few weeks following birth. Detailed information can be found on their official website.
- National Health and Medical Research Council’s “Infant Feeding Guidelines” offer evidence-based recommendations on breastfeeding and infant nutrition. For further reading, please see their guidelines.
- Pregnancy, Birth and Baby explores the changes in menstrual cycles after pregnancy, providing valuable insights for new mothers. Learn more at Pregnancy, Birth and Baby.
- Healthline discusses why women might experience irregular periods while breastfeeding, offering explanations and tips for managing this common issue. Visit Healthline for more details.
- Marasco, L., & West, D. (2020). This reference provides specialized knowledge on breastfeeding challenges and solutions, contributing to a deeper understanding of lactation science.
- “The Womanly Art of Breastfeeding” is a comprehensive resource on breastfeeding, offering guidance and support to breastfeeding mothers.
- Katrina B. Mitchell, MD, IBCLC, PMH-C, is recognized for her contributions to understanding breastfeeding’s medical and emotional aspects, enhancing the support available to breastfeeding mothers.
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