Can the mini pill affect breast milk supply?

Understanding the Mini Pill and Its Impact on Breast Milk Supply
The mini pill, or progestin-only pill, is a popular contraceptive option for breastfeeding mothers. As new mothers navigate the complexities of postpartum life, including the need for effective birth control, concerns about the potential effects of hormonal contraceptives on breast milk supply often arise.
Progestin-Only Pill and Breastfeeding
Research indicates that the mini pill is generally safe for breastfeeding mothers. Unlike combined hormonal contraceptives that contain both estrogen and progestin, the mini pill contains only progestin. This distinction is crucial because estrogen has been linked to a decrease in milk supply. Studies have shown that progestin-only methods, including the mini pill, do not adversely affect milk production, neonatal growth, or infant development.
A comprehensive review highlighted that progestogen-only contraceptives are widely accepted and have been shown to have no significant impact on breastfeeding performance. In fact, the World Health Organization conducted a large international study that confirmed the safety of progesterone-based contraceptives for breastfeeding mothers, indicating that they do not hinder breastfeeding or infant growth.
Concerns and Considerations
While the mini pill is considered safe, some anecdotal reports suggest that a small number of women may experience a decrease in milk supply when using progestin-only contraceptives. However, these instances appear to be exceptions rather than the rule. The majority of research supports the conclusion that only minimal amounts of progestin pass into breast milk, and there are no adverse effects on the baby’s weight gain or overall health.
For mothers who are particularly concerned about maintaining their milk supply, it is advisable to monitor any changes after starting the mini pill. Consulting with a healthcare provider can also provide personalized guidance and reassurance.
Conclusion
In summary, the mini pill is a viable contraceptive option for breastfeeding mothers, with substantial evidence supporting its safety and lack of impact on breast milk supply. As always, individual experiences may vary, and mothers should feel empowered to discuss their concerns with healthcare professionals to find the best approach for their unique situations.

Do progesterone pills affect milk supply?

A small cohort of women reported a significant decrease in milk production after taking the progesterone only pill. When most of these women stopped taking the pill, their milk supply returned.

Can the mini pill make my baby fussy?

Any hormonal birth control may cause fussiness in the baby (not reported in the literature but often anecdotally by mothers). This may be due to the hormones causing a minimal decrease in the protein/nitrogen/lactose content of the milk.

What causes drastic drop in milk supply?

A decrease in milk supply can be caused by a variety of different factors. A very common (and solvable) problem is not pumping or feeding enough. Because milk production works on a supply and demand basis, not pumping on a frequent schedule will signal to your body that it does not need to produce milk.

How does the mini pill affect breastfeeding?

The minipill is safe to start any time during breastfeeding. It does not affect the amount of milk produced. You can begin using the minipill right away after giving birth, even if you’re not breastfeeding.

Does progesterone suppress lactation?

The local effects of estrogen and progesterone in the breast prevent the secretion of milk during pregnancy. With their withdrawal during the postpartum period, the stimulating effect of the anterior pituitary hormone prolactin dominates and milk secretion is initated as well as maintained.

Can birth control make your milk supply drop?

Beginning birth control pills too soon can decrease your milk supply. Wait at least 6 weeks before taking birth control pills and then use only the mini-pill (Progestin). If you still notice a decrease in your milk supply, talk to your doctor about other birth control options.

What are the side effects of mini pills?

Some side effects can include:

• acne.
• a change in your bleeding pattern (your periods may become less regular or may stop, this isn’t harmful)
• breast tenderness and breast enlargement.
• an increased or decreased sex drive.
• mood changes.
• headache and migraine.
• nausea or vomiting.

What are the main side effects of the mini pill?

Some side effects can include:

• acne.
• a change in your bleeding pattern (your periods may become less regular or may stop, this isn’t harmful)
• breast tenderness and breast enlargement.
• an increased or decreased sex drive.
• mood changes.
• headache and migraine.
• nausea or vomiting.

What are the side effects of the mini pill for breasts?

Side effects of the progestogen only pill

• irregular vaginal bleeding.
• headaches.
• sore or tender breasts.
• changes to your skin.
• mood changes.

Does Plan B decrease milk supply?

Studies indicate that levonorgestrel does not affect the composition or amount of breastmilk, or the growth and development of the breastfed infant.