How long should I wait for my menses to start after delivery?

Q: I was diagnosed with PCOD in 2003 and with hypothyroidism in 2005. I had my first kid in 2006 with first attempt of IUI. I had my second delivery without any assisted reproductive technique early this year. Ever since my second delivery, I have not got my periods. I am breast-feeding. I am currently on Thyronorm 100 and calcium tab. How long should I wait for my menses to start? Do I need to have any pills every month like primulot-n?

A:While you are breast-feeding, there can be no menses for 4-6-8 months depending on your body physiology and amount of lactation. Periods return on their own, once the breast milk is reduced or weaned off. This is called Lactational amenorrhoea and does not need treatment. It has the added benefit of providing some contraception - till the milk is fed - it is not 100% effective and after 6 months another contraceptive needs to be added if no other baby is desired soon. These can be anything from the following - IUCD / oral pills / condoms / inj DMPA - suitable to your lifestyle and budget.