Giving birth by C-section is no small feat, and once the haze of postpartum recovery starts to lift, many people wonder when their menstrual cycle will return — and what it will be like when it does. Spoiler: It’s not always the smoothest transition, and that’s completely normal.

Let’s break down everything you need to know about your first period after a C-section, from timing to flow to how it might make you feel both physically and emotionally.

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How long after a C-section do periods start?

Your body needs time to heal after a C-section, and that includes your reproductive system. Typically, periods return about 6 to 8 weeks after birth if you’re not breastfeeding — the majority of women in our Rescripted community who gave birth and had their period return found that it came back within 3 months. But if you're breastfeeding, it might take several months or longer before your periods come back.

Why the difference? Breastfeeding suppresses the release of hormones that trigger ovulation — and no ovulation means no period. This is called lactational amenorrhea, a natural pause in menstrual cycles due to breastfeeding.

Studies confirm that exclusive breastfeeding can delay the return of periods by up to six months or even longer. But remember, every body is unique. Some people might see a period sooner, even if they’re nursing.

How do I know if I got my first period postpartum?

It’s easy to confuse postpartum bleeding, called lochia, with a period — but they’re not the same. Lochia is the body’s way of clearing out leftover tissue and blood from the uterus, and it typically lasts for four to six weeks after delivery, whether you had a C-section or vaginal birth.

Your first true period postpartum will come after the lochia stops and will likely follow a full menstrual cycle, starting with recruiting a follicle for ovulation. It’s more likely to be your period if you experience cramping or PMS-like symptoms before bleeding, a few days of heavier flow followed by lighter days, like your typical period, and redder, more familiar period-like blood (not the brownish lochia discharge).

Mood swings are common around your first postpartum period. Hormonal shifts can trigger mood changes, so be gentle with yourself and seek support if you’re struggling emotionally.

If you’re ever unsure about whether your first postpartum period is ‘normal’, check in with your healthcare provider — especially if the bleeding is extremely heavy or comes with severe pain.

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What does the first period after a C-section look like?

Your first postpartum period might not look or feel like the ones you had before pregnancy. It might be heavier than usual, with some small clots, more irregular than you might be used to, and accompanied by stronger cramps or new sensations.

These changes happen because your body is adjusting after months of pregnancy hormones. Your uterus is also still healing, so your endometrium (the lining that sheds each month) may be thicker than before.

How heavy is your first period after a C-section?

It’s very common for your first few periods after a C-section to feel heavier than your pre-pregnancy periods. This is partly due to a thicker uterine lining built up after months without shedding, hormonal shifts trying to regulate ovulation again, and your body still adjusting to postpartum healing.

While a heavy flow can be normal, pay attention to how heavy. According to ACOG (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists), heavy bleeding (menorrhagia) means soaking through one or more pads or tampons every hour for several hours in a row, or passing clots larger than a quarter, if they’re accompanied by a heavy flow, or if you’re continuously passing clots.

If you’re experiencing this level of bleeding or feeling dizzy, weak, or short of breath, contact your doctor right away. It’s important to rule out postpartum complications like retained placental tissue or infection.

Does the first period after C-section hurt more?

Some people notice their first postpartum periods come with stronger cramps than before. Why? A few reasons: your uterus is still recovering from surgery, so cramps might feel sharper. Hormonal changes can also make uterine muscles more sensitive. Your uterus has also been stretched and reshaped by pregnancy, so the way it contracts might feel different.

There’s no shame in reaching for a heating pad, warm bath, or over-the-counter pain relievers if cramps hit hard.

woman post c-section holding her baby and holding her mid-section

When I get my period, my C-section scar hurts. What’s up with that?

In rare cases, period pain near your scar could be C-section scar endometriosis — when endometrial-like tissue grows in the scar and causes cyclical pain, swelling, or a lump that flares up with each period. This condition affects around 0.03% to 0.8% of people after a C-section, according to a Cureus case report.

If you notice persistent pain, swelling, or a growing lump, talk to your doctor. Diagnosis usually involves imaging, and treatment typically requires surgical removal to fully resolve symptoms. You don’t have to just live with it — help is available.

When it’s best to talk with your doctor

While many first-period experiences after a C-section are normal, it’s always worth reaching out to your healthcare provider if you experience:

  • Bleeding that soaks through a pad or tampon every hour for several hours
  • Repeatedly passing clots larger than a quarter, accompanied by heavy bleeding
  • Severe pain or cramping that doesn’t improve with rest or medication
  • Fever or foul-smelling discharge (these can be signs of infection)
  • Feeling faint, dizzy, or very weak

woman looking down at the menstrual pad between her legs

Preparing for your first period after a C-section

While you can’t predict exactly when your first period will show up after a C-section, there are a few ways to prepare and make things easier on yourself. Stock up on a variety of period products, since your flow might be heavier or different from what you remember. Have pain relief options ready, like a heating pad or approved over-the-counter medications, in case cramps hit harder than usual.

Make sure to rest when you can, stay hydrated, and listen to your body — recovery after a C-section takes time, and adding your period into the mix can feel like an extra hurdle. If you notice anything concerning, like soaking through a pad every hour, large clots, or severe pain, don’t wait to reach out to your doctor. Taking care of both your physical and emotional health during this time is just as important as managing the bleeding itself. You’ve been through a lot, and you deserve support as your body finds its new normal.

Tassia O'Callaghan is an experienced content writer and strategist, having written about a vast range of topics from chemical regulations to parenting, for brands like Peanut App Ltd, Scary Mommy, Tally Workspace, and Fertility Mapper. She's an advocate for realistic sustainable living, supporting small businesses (author of A-Z of Marketing for Small Businesses), and equity across all walks of life. Follow her on LinkedIn or TikTok, or see more of her work on Authory or her website.