How Soon to Expect Ovulation While Nursing
Question
How likely is it to have ovulation before your first period post-partum if you are breastfeeding and pumping (pumping starting at four weeks)?
Also when should you start temperature checks?
Aimee
Answer
Last Updated: December 29, 2014
Dear Aimee,
A mother who is nursing on her baby’s cue around the clock, with no supplements or pacifier use, can expect the following reduced conception rates, even without observation of any fertility signs:
— almost 0% in the first three months
— 1% during the next three months
— 6% once solids have been introduced around six months, until her first period
Any variation in this pattern of mother-baby closeness and frequent breastfeeding will increase the likelihood of ovulation, and possible conception, before the first period, as well as the timing of the first period itself. If you are using your pumped milk to bottle-feed your baby at times, you should resume all fertility observations and charting,including temperatures.
Andrea and Ron Gronsky
A mother who is nursing on her baby’s cue around the clock, with no supplements or pacifier use, can expect the following reduced conception rates, even without observation of any fertility signs:
— almost 0% in the first three months
— 1% during the next three months
— 6% once solids have been introduced around six months, until her first period
Any variation in this pattern of mother-baby closeness and frequent breastfeeding will increase the likelihood of ovulation, and possible conception, before the first period, as well as the timing of the first period itself. If you are using your pumped milk to bottle-feed your baby at times, you should resume all fertility observations and charting,including temperatures.
Andrea and Ron Gronsky
Answered By:
Andrea and Ron Gronsky
Andrea and Ron Gronsky, PhD, Professional Members of CANFP,now retired, taught the Sympto Thermal Method through the Couple to Couple League, in the Oakland Region.
