How long after Plan B can I breastfeed?

Understanding Plan B and Breastfeeding
When it comes to the intersection of emergency contraception and breastfeeding, many new mothers have questions about safety and timing. Specifically, one common concern is how long after taking Plan B (levonorgestrel) it is safe to breastfeed.
Safety of Plan B While Breastfeeding
Experts agree that it is safe to take Plan B while breastfeeding. The medication works primarily by preventing ovulation and does not have a significant impact on breast milk production or the health of the nursing infant. This reassurance is crucial for mothers who may find themselves in need of emergency contraception shortly after childbirth.
Timing of Breastfeeding After Taking Plan B
While there is no strict waiting period required after taking Plan B before breastfeeding, some healthcare professionals recommend waiting at least two hours after taking the pill before nursing. This recommendation is based on the idea that it allows time for the medication to be absorbed into the mother’s system, potentially minimizing any trace amounts that could enter breast milk.
However, it is important to note that the amount of Plan B that might transfer into breast milk is considered negligible and unlikely to affect the baby. The consensus among health professionals is that the benefits of breastfeeding outweigh any potential risks associated with the small amounts of the medication that could be present in breast milk.
Conclusion
In summary, mothers can feel confident that taking Plan B while breastfeeding is safe. If you choose to wait a couple of hours before nursing, that can provide additional peace of mind, but it is not strictly necessary. Always consult with a healthcare provider for personalized advice, especially when navigating the complexities of postpartum health and infant care.

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.

How long does it take for Plan B to leave the system?

Plan B stays in your system for about 5–6 days, depending on the type. Although there isn’t a limit on taking it multiple times, extra doses won’t make it more effective, and they can cause some unpleasant side effects.

What are the chances of having a baby after taking Plan B?

Effectiveness. Emergency contraception pills reduce the risk of pregnancy by approximately 75%. In other words, out of 100 women who have unprotected intercourse mid-cycle, approximately 8 would become pregnant. With use of emergency contraception pills, only 2 of the 100 would become pregnant.

What to avoid after taking Plan B?

There are certain medications and herbal supplements that you should avoid after taking Plan B, as they may lower the efficacy of the drug. These include: Barbiturates (including primidone) Bosentan.

How long does the morning-after pill last in your system?

The morning-after pill, a go-to for unexpected contraception hiccups, typically remains active in your system for a few days, gradually dissipating within 24 to 48 hours post-consumption. It offers a temporary solution for unplanned situations, such as unprotected sex or contraceptive failure.

Which morning-after pill is safe to take while breastfeeding?

Preferred choice. Levonorgestrel can be used for emergency contraception during breastfeeding from day 21 after birth. A copper IUD is an alternative choice.

Can you breastfeed after taking a Plan B?

After a single 1.5mg dose, the total amount of drug passing into the breastmilk over the next 3 days is only about 0.1% of the mother’s dose. 5 Experts agree that this small amount of hormone is not significant and women are encouraged to continue breastfeeding without interruption.

How long does it take for a Plan B pill to digest?

It takes about 1.7 hours for the levonorgestrel in Plan B to reach peak levels in your blood. 4 After this, it will delay ovulation for a few days. Plan B is most effective within 72 hours of unprotected sex.

What should I avoid after taking Plan B?

There are certain medications and herbal supplements that you should avoid after taking Plan B, as they may lower the efficacy of the drug. These include: Barbiturates (including primidone) Bosentan.

Is it harder to get pregnant after taking Plan B?

It can decrease your chance of getting pregnant immediately after unprotected sex, but does not affect long-term fertility and will not prevent you from becoming pregnant in the future. Here is what you need to know about how Plan B works and why it doesn’t affect fertility.