Is the birth control pill safe while breastfeeding?

The Safety of Birth Control Pills While Breastfeeding
The question of whether the birth control pill is safe during breastfeeding is a nuanced one, influenced by the type of contraceptive used and the timing of its introduction postpartum.
Hormonal Considerations
For new mothers, the primary concern with hormonal birth control is the potential impact on milk supply. Estrogen-containing contraceptives, such as combination birth control pills, are generally advised against during the early weeks of breastfeeding. Specifically, it is recommended that these methods be avoided for at least the first three weeks after giving birth. This precaution is due to the possibility that estrogen can affect milk production negatively during this critical period when establishing a breastfeeding routine is essential.
Once the initial weeks have passed and the mother’s milk supply is well established—typically around four to six weeks postpartum—many healthcare providers may consider the introduction of hormonal methods, including combination pills. However, it is crucial for mothers to consult with their healthcare providers to determine the best timing and method for their individual circumstances.
Progestin-Only Options
On the other hand, progestin-only pills (often referred to as the “mini-pill”) are considered safe for breastfeeding mothers and can be started shortly after childbirth. These pills do not contain estrogen and are less likely to interfere with milk supply . The progestin-only pill can be a suitable option for mothers who wish to avoid the risks associated with estrogen while still effectively managing their reproductive health.
Non-Hormonal Alternatives
For those who prefer to avoid hormonal contraceptives altogether, non-hormonal methods are also available and can be used safely while breastfeeding. These include barrier methods such as condoms, diaphragms, and copper intrauterine devices (IUDs), which do not affect milk supply and can be initiated at various points postpartum.
Conclusion
In summary, while breastfeeding mothers have several contraceptive options, the safety of the birth control pill largely depends on the type of pill and the timing of its use. Progestin-only pills are generally safe and can be introduced soon after birth, while estrogen-containing methods should be delayed until the milk supply is established. As always, it is advisable for mothers to discuss their options with healthcare professionals to ensure the best choices for their health and their baby’s well-being.

What is the safest birth control while breastfeeding?

It’s thought that estrogen may be at the root of this. If you’d like to use an oral contraceptive, the mini-pill is an option. This pill contains progestin only, so it’s considered to be safer for breastfeeding mothers.

Will birth control affect my breast milk supply?

Contraceptives which contain estrogen have been linked to reduced milk supply and early cessation of breastfeeding even when started after milk supply is well established and baby is older. Not all mothers who take contraceptives containing estrogen experience lower milk supply, but many do.

What is the best birth control after having a baby?

We typically recommend three types of birth control options for women who want to avoid pregnancy after childbirth: the Depo Provera shots, which last about three months; long-acting reversible contraceptive (LARC) devices, which are effective up to 10 years; and tubal ligation, which is considered permanent.

What pills are safe for breastfeeding?

What medications are safe to take while breastfeeding?

• Acetaminophen (Tylenol, others)
• Ibuprofen (Advil, Motrin IB, others)
• Naproxen sodium (Aleve, Anaprox DS, others) — short-term use only.

When to start birth control postpartum?

Contraception choices 3 weeks after the birth
If you’re not breastfeeding and a healthcare professional has checked you have no risk factors for a blood clot, you can start to use these methods 3 weeks after the birth: combined pill. vaginal ring. contraceptive patch.

Which drug is usually avoided with breastfeeding?

Table. Examples of drugs contraindicated in breastfeeding.

Drug	Comment
Antineoplastics	Leukopenia, bone marrow suppression
Gold salts	Rash, nephritis, haematological abnormalities
Iodine	High doses (>150 micrograms daily) lead to risk of infant hypothyroidism
Lithium	Breastfeeding only feasible with rigorous monitoring

What are the odds of getting pregnant while breastfeeding?

If you follow the rules laid out in the LAM method — exclusive breastfeeding of an infant younger than 6 months old before your period comes back — you have less than a 5 percent chance of getting pregnant.

What negatively affects breast milk supply?

However, supplementing with formula for multiple feedings every day (such as while the baby is at daycare) or releasing breast milk only when the baby wants to nurse tells your body that it doesn’t need to produce as much milk. Consequently, your supply will begin to decrease.

How often should you breastfeed while on birth control?

When you exclusively breastfeed — meaning you nurse at least every 4 hours during the day and every 6 hours at night, and feed your baby only breast milk — your body naturally stops ovulating. You can’t get pregnant if you don’t ovulate. No ovulation means you won’t have your period, either.

Why is the contraceptive pill not recommended for breastfeeding mothers?

If you are breastfeeding you cannot take the usual ‘Pill’, also called the Combined Oral Contraceptive Pill (COCP), because the hormones in the COCP will decrease (dry up) your breast milk. (After 6 weeks you may start the COCP).