Does breastfeeding extend fertility?

The Complex Relationship Between Breastfeeding and Fertility
Breastfeeding is often celebrated for its numerous health benefits for both mother and child, but its impact on fertility is a nuanced topic that can lead to confusion among new parents. While breastfeeding can delay the return of fertility after childbirth, it does not completely prevent the possibility of becoming pregnant.
Breastfeeding and Ovulation
During the early months of breastfeeding, many women experience a natural form of infertility known as lactational amenorrhea. This phenomenon occurs because breastfeeding affects hormonal levels in the body, particularly by suppressing the release of gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GnRH) from the hypothalamus. This suppression leads to a decrease in luteinizing hormone (LH) and, consequently, ovulation is delayed. The duration of this amenorrhea can vary significantly among women, influenced by factors such as the frequency of breastfeeding, maternal age, and individual hormonal responses.
Can You Get Pregnant While Breastfeeding?
Despite the natural contraceptive effect of breastfeeding, it is indeed possible to conceive while nursing. Many women may find this surprising, as the assumption is often that breastfeeding provides complete protection against pregnancy. However, as noted by health experts, if a mother is not exclusively breastfeeding or if the intervals between feedings are extended, her fertility may return sooner than expected. This means that while breastfeeding can extend the time before a woman ovulates again, it does not guarantee that ovulation will not occur.
The Lactational Amenorrhea Method (LAM)
For those looking to use breastfeeding as a form of birth control, the Lactational Amenorrhea Method (LAM) can be effective under specific conditions. LAM is most reliable when a mother is exclusively breastfeeding (no supplemental feeding), has not yet resumed menstruation, and is within the first six months postpartum. Under these circumstances, the likelihood of ovulation is significantly reduced, making it a viable temporary contraceptive method.
Frustrations and Considerations
For some women, the delay in the return of fertility can be a source of frustration, especially for those hoping to expand their families soon after the birth of their first child. While breastfeeding can serve as a natural contraceptive, it can also complicate family planning. Women who have undergone fertility treatments may also wonder about the implications of breastfeeding on their ability to conceive again, and the answer often depends on the specific treatments and medications involved.
In conclusion, while breastfeeding can extend the period of infertility after childbirth, it is not an infallible method of birth control. Women should be aware of their individual circumstances and consult healthcare providers to navigate their fertility options effectively. Understanding the interplay between breastfeeding and fertility can empower new parents to make informed decisions about family planning during this transformative time.

Does breastfeeding slow egg loss?

Exclusive breastfeeding delays the return of ovulation after childbirth and may slow egg loss. The researchers speculate that this may in turn affect AMH levels and delay menopause. Study participants who gave birth three or more times appeared to have slightly higher AMH levels than those who had never given birth.

What are the odds 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.

Can you restore fertility while breastfeeding?

Bringing fertility back sooner
To bring back your fertility sooner, try changing your breastfeeding pattern. There is no general rule around breastfeeding frequency that leads to the return of fertility. Abrupt changes in breastfeeding generally brings back fertility quicker.

What is the average return of fertility while breastfeeding?

If you practice ecological breastfeeding: Chance of pregnancy is practically zero during the first three months, less than 2% between 3 and 6 months, and about 6% after 6 months (assuming mom’s menstrual periods have not yet returned). The average time for the return of menstrual periods is 14.6 months.

Are you extra fertile after having a baby?

You may have heard that people are “super fertile” after giving birth, but there’s no scientific evidence indicating that fertility increases post childbirth.

Does breastfeeding help egg quality?

But because ovulation is temporarily halted during pregnancy or slowed down during breastfeeding, this may pause the monthly loss of eggs. In theory, this could preserve egg reserves, and stave off menopause for longer, says Langton.

Are mothers more fertile after having baby?

You may have heard that people are “super fertile” after giving birth, but there’s no scientific evidence indicating that fertility increases post childbirth.

Is it harder to get pregnant again while breastfeeding?

While it’s true that breastfeeding can delay the return of your fertility postpartum, it’s not impossible to get pregnant. The time it takes for a woman’s period to return after giving birth can vary widely. Once you start menstruating, it is usually a sign that your fertility has returned or will return soon.

Does breastfeeding make you more fertile?

How does breastfeeding affect fertility? Women who aren’t breastfeeding may ovulate (release an egg) as early as 5 to 6 weeks after the birth. However, if you’re breastfeeding, your hormones don’t return to pre-pregnancy levels until much later, and this delays ovulation and the return of periods.

Are you more fertile after having a baby?

You may have heard that people are “super fertile” after giving birth, but there’s no scientific evidence indicating that fertility increases post childbirth.