Choosing to use birth control while nursing is a deeply personal choice and depends on your belief system and family goals among other factors. In this blog, we are going to discuss the different options available that should not affect milk supply.
Natural Family Planning
- Lactational Amenorrhea Method (LAM) – Exclusive breastfeeding can delay the return of ovulation. However, its effectiveness depends on strict adherence to breastfeeding practices and the following criteria must be met:
- Your period has not returned
- Fully breastfeeding with no more than 4 to 6 hours between breastfeeds
- Your baby is less than 6 months old
Non-Hormonal Options
- Condoms – One of the most accessible and non-invasive options, condoms don’t interfere with breastfeeding and pose no risk to the baby. They provide protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) as well.
- Copper IUD (ParaGard) – Non-hormonal, the copper IUD is another option for breastfeeding mothers. It doesn’t affect milk supply and provides long-term contraception.
Hormonal Options
- Progestin IUD (Mirena): This long-acting reversible contraceptive is inserted into the uterus and releases a small amount of progestin. It is a highly effective option with minimal impact on breastfeeding.
- Depo-Provera (Injectable Progestin): An injection every three months offers effective contraception without affecting breastfeeding. However, some women may experience irregular bleeding.
- Progestin-Only Pills (Mini Pills): Unlike combination birth control pills, which contain both estrogen and progestin, mini pills only contain progestin. They are considered safe for breastfeeding mothers as they have minimal impact on milk supply. Note, it is extremely important to take progestin-only pills at the same time every day for them to be effective.
Choosing a birth control method while breastfeeding requires careful consideration. By staying informed and seeking guidance from healthcare professionals, mothers can make empowered decisions that prioritize both their reproductive health and the well-being of their breastfeeding infants.
It is an honor to support you on this journey. Please do not hesitate to call us with questions about the information we are providing. Our consultations are always free.