Gave birth 16 weeks ago, breastfed for 3 weeks, then switched to formula. Periods returned 4 weeks after last breastfeed, had two 'normal' cycles (28-31 days) and periods (perhaps a day or two longer than usual).
During 2nd cycle I had very strong ovulation pain, just 5-6 twinges that really took my breath away. Prior to pregnancy I also had ovulation pain but not at this level.
Now during this cycle (my third since childbirth) I have experienced quite bad pain and bloating, woke up the other night with what felt like bad period cramps and had to take painkillers. I have not really paid much attention to it as my back has been seized up so I had been focusing on that pain instead, but now I realise the pelvic pain could be all related and my period type cramps are quite bad. I have now started to bleed, started as very pink tinge cd9/10, and now red spotting at cd12/13. I need to wear a pad. No specific ovulation pain, rather a general pelvic pain/cramp/bloating.
Is this something I should expect following childrbirth? This is my second baby. Although I EBF my first till 10 months, periods returned with him at 6 weeks after birth and were very normal. I am confused that I am experiencing a few issues with my periods this time around when I am not breastfeeding at all.
I would like to go to doctor really but reckon he will just say my hormones settling down and nothing to worry about. Anyone else experienced something like this?