I am 46 yrs old and am breastfeeding my 1 yr old. I would love to have more children and have always been very fertile, he is nine. I am back on my cycle for 6 months now. I haven’t noticed any fertile mucus. If I stop breastfeeding will that increase my fertility? I don’t want to stop breastfeeding and miss out of the joy if he is most likely my last? Is there any way to tell if I’m very close to menopause? My cycle seems regular but I do notice hot flashes before it starts?
Lisa
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Is Lack of Fertility Due to Breastfeeding or Pre-Menopause?
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Last Updated: July 24, 2013
Dear Lisa,
Congratulations on your nine blessings! It is very possible that you might be nearing menopause. Please note that menopause occurs on average about age 51, though it can happen many years before or after age 51. Menopause also results in a cessation of periods with associated symptoms such as hot flashes. Meanwhile I would encourage you to enjoy your breastfeeding, not so much that I think this might be your last child, but to remain consistent with the practices of your previous children. If you are blessed with another child, thank God!
Dr. Tony Meraz
Congratulations on your nine blessings! It is very possible that you might be nearing menopause. Please note that menopause occurs on average about age 51, though it can happen many years before or after age 51. Menopause also results in a cessation of periods with associated symptoms such as hot flashes. Meanwhile I would encourage you to enjoy your breastfeeding, not so much that I think this might be your last child, but to remain consistent with the practices of your previous children. If you are blessed with another child, thank God!
Dr. Tony Meraz
Answered By:
![](https://canfp.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/08/Meraz-1.jpg)
Antonio Meraz, MD
Dr. Tony Meraz is board certified in Family Practice with Obstetrics privileges, and practices in Woodland, CA. . Dr. Meraz completed his residency training in family practice and obstetrics at Natividad Medical Center in Salinas, California
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