Can you take the morning-after pill when breastfeeding?

Can You Take the Morning-After Pill While Breastfeeding?
The question of whether breastfeeding mothers can safely take the morning-after pill is a significant concern for many new parents. The good news is that, in most cases, it is indeed safe to use emergency contraception while breastfeeding, but there are important distinctions to be aware of regarding the types of pills available.
Types of Morning-After Pills
There are primarily two types of morning-after pills: those containing levonorgestrel and those containing ulipristal acetate.
1. Levonorgestrel: This is the most commonly used emergency contraceptive. Research indicates that it is safe for breastfeeding mothers. Studies show that levonorgestrel does not adversely affect breast milk supply or the health of the infant. While small amounts of the hormone may pass into breast milk, it is not considered harmful to the baby. Therefore, mothers can take this pill without needing to interrupt breastfeeding.
2. Ulipristal Acetate: The situation is different for ulipristal acetate, marketed under the brand name ellaOne. Current guidelines suggest that breastfeeding mothers should avoid breastfeeding for at least a week after taking this medication. This precaution is due to insufficient research on the effects of ulipristal on breast milk and the potential impact on the infant. If a mother chooses to take ulipristal, it is recommended that she express and discard her milk for a period following the dosage to minimize any risk to the baby.
Guidelines and Recommendations
The World Health Organization (WHO) generally supports the use of levonorgestrel for breastfeeding mothers, emphasizing its safety. However, for ulipristal, the lack of comprehensive studies means that caution is advised. Mothers are encouraged to consult healthcare providers for personalized advice, especially if they are considering ulipristal as their emergency contraceptive option.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding mothers can safely take the morning-after pill containing levonorgestrel without significant concerns for their infants. However, if considering ulipristal acetate, it is crucial to follow guidelines regarding breastfeeding after taking the pill. As always, consulting with a healthcare professional can provide tailored advice and ensure the best choices for both mother and child.

How damaging is the morning-after pill?

The emergency contraceptive pill is very safe and serious side effects are rare. Common side effects include: headache. feeling sick (nausea)

Can the morning-after pill affect a baby?

Emergency contraception (EC), also known as the morning-after pill, will not harm a fetus. Still, women should not use EC when they’re pregnant. EC does not end a pregnancy — it can reduce the risk of pregnancy if started within 120 hours (five days) of unprotected intercourse.

How can I breastfeed my boyfriend but not pregnant?

Inducing lactation in people who aren’t pregnant requires medication that mimics hormones your body makes during pregnancy. Suckling from the nipple can initiate lactation, either with a breast pump or by a baby.

Is it safe to take the morning-after pill while breastfeeding?

Studies indicate that levonorgestrel does not affect the composition or amount of breastmilk, or the growth and development of the breastfed infant. 6 Levonorgestrel is the same hormone found in the “Mini Pill”, which is considered the oral contraceptive of choice for breastfeeding mothers.

What is the chance of getting pregnant while breastfeeding?

About 2 out of 100 people who use breastfeeding as birth control get pregnant in the 6 months it can be used after a baby is born. Breastfeeding won’t prevent pregnancy if you feed your baby anything other than breast milk. So if you breastfeed but also use formula, LAM isn’t a great birth control method for you.

How can I prevent unwanted pregnancy while breastfeeding?

You can start using the shot, implant, Skyla and Mirena IUDs, and some types of birth control pills (called mini-pills) right after giving birth. You may be able to get an implant or IUD in the hospital or at your postpartum checkup. Implants and IUDs are super effective, and prevent pregnancy for several years.

Can you get pregnant while breastfeeding if there is no period?

“You can’t get pregnant if you’re breastfeeding.” Maybe you’ve heard this myth before…and we should warn you, it’s just that—a myth! The truth is you can get pregnant while you’re breastfeeding, even if your menstrual cycle hasn’t returned to normal.

Can the morning after pill affect your breasts?

Levonelle or ellaOne can make you feel sick, dizzy or tired, or give you a headache, tender breasts or abdominal pain. Both pills can make your period earlier or later than usual.

Has anyone got pregnant on the morning-after pill?

About 1 or 2 in every 100 women who use ECPs will become pregnant despite taking the pills within 72 hours after having unprotected sex.

Does Plan B stop breast milk?

Considerations for Breastfeeding Parents When Taking Plan B
Specifically, LactMed indicates that progestin-only medications do not change the composition of your milk supply, do not decrease your milk supply, and do not negatively affect your baby’s health.