first period but Im still breast feeding - what does this mean?

[barose]

all previous info i have read says that periods return after breastfeeding is stopped. Been feeding dd for 5 1/2 mths and dont want to stop yet ( aiming for 12mths)

was totally shocked to find I had started a period this morning, is my body going to stop producing milk?
anybody know what this means?

It just means you are probably ovulating and probably fertile so no unprotected shagging

Lots of people get their periods back while still feeding, it's nothing at all to worry about

It's not uncommon - happened to me with DS1 and he was feeding constantly! You may find that your supply goes a bit funny when you're due (took me a few months to work that one out). Otherwise no side-effects other than being a bit cross I didn't get more of a break.

No your body won't stop producing milk and periods don't generally stay away totally.
FOr a lot of women periods return straight away bf or not for others they stay away longer and sometimes they return when the baby starts solids so may be feeding less.

There is no normal in this situation and it is perfectly ok and your milk will be fine.

I'm a bit hazy with the details, but my period began a few months after I gave birth (possibly about 5 months), while I was breastfeeding.

I was surprised that they did return, but it certainly didn't dry up my milk, and I continued till DD was 16 months.

It's completely normal.

I got my period back when dd was 9 weeks old and it has come regularly ever since. She was exclusively bfed until 6 months and I'm still feeding her now at 20 months.

Dont worry about your milk - it is very very common to start your periods again whilst still breastfeeding. It has no relation to the quantity/composition of your milk.

As morningpaper says though - you should be careful as you are probably fertile again.

have a look on the www.kellymom.com website for more info - but dont worry! Mine came back at 14months, and im still feeding my DS at 34months, whilst being 8mo pregnant.

wow thanks everyone! how brilliant is mumsnet !!!!

i have been worried all morning - and 10 mins after posting i am totally reassured

yes, nothing at all to worry about!
mine came back at 7 weeks post-partum with my first 2 and 12 weeks pp with my third!
was very cross lol, had been hoping for a bit longer

So glad!