Periods: No Longer shameful (yay!). Periods: Still super painful (ugh). And sometimes just plain weird! Flow suddenly got super strong? Or reduced to a trickle? Missed your regular menstruation date altogether – but can’t possibly be pregnant? What!? Don’t stress… yet. It’s normal for your period to wax or wane during these life events…
1. You Had A Baby
Your monthly could resume as soon as six to eight weeks after delivery. Remaining endometrial tissue and still-shifting hormones can make the first few flows heavier or longer than usual.
READ MORE: 7 Reasons Your Period Might Be Late – Other Than Pregnancy
2. You’re Breastfeeding
Prolactin, a hormone produced during nursing, can inhibit ovulation. Some women don’t bleed at all while bf’ing, others will do so sporadically (one month yes, the next, no.).
READ MORE: This Is How Your Discharge Changes, According To Your Cycle
3. You’ve Gained Weight
Extra kilos can throw oestrogen out of whack, causing longer, heavier periods.
READ MORE: Here’s Why You Should Always Masturbate On Your Period
4. You’re In Perimenopause
In the (up to 10!) years before menopause, you might skip months at a time, be lighter, be heavier or bleed multiple times a month. Great.
