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What birth control does not affect milk supply?

Understanding Birth Control Options That Do Not Affect Milk Supply
For breastfeeding mothers, the choice of birth control can be a delicate balance between preventing pregnancy and maintaining a healthy milk supply. Many women are understandably concerned about how different contraceptive methods might impact their ability to breastfeed effectively. Fortunately, there are several options available that are considered safe and do not adversely affect milk production.
Non-Hormonal Methods
Non-hormonal contraceptives are generally the safest choice for breastfeeding mothers. These methods do not introduce hormones into the body, which means they won’t interfere with milk supply. Examples include:
– Barrier Methods: Condoms (both male and female) are effective and safe for nursing mothers. They prevent pregnancy without hormonal side effects and also protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
– Copper IUD: The copper intrauterine device (IUD) is another excellent option. It is hormone-free and has been shown to have no negative impact on milk supply, making it a reliable choice for breastfeeding women.
Hormonal Methods
While many hormonal contraceptives are available, caution is advised when selecting these options during breastfeeding.
– Progestin-Only Methods: These include the mini-pill and certain types of IUDs that release progestin. They are generally considered safer for breastfeeding mothers compared to combination pills that contain estrogen. However, some women have reported a slight decrease in milk supply when using progestin-only methods, although significant studies have not consistently confirmed this.

– Combination Pills: These contain both estrogen and progestin and are typically not recommended until at least six weeks postpartum. Estrogen has been linked to a reduction in milk supply, which is why healthcare providers often advise against these for breastfeeding mothers.
Consulting Healthcare Providers
It’s crucial for breastfeeding mothers to consult with their healthcare providers when considering birth control options. Each woman’s body responds differently to contraceptives, and a healthcare professional can help navigate the choices based on individual health needs and breastfeeding goals.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding mothers have several effective birth control options that do not compromise milk supply. Non-hormonal methods like barrier methods and the copper IUD are excellent choices, while progestin-only methods can be considered with caution. By working closely with healthcare providers, mothers can find the best solution that aligns with their family planning needs while ensuring a successful breastfeeding experience.

What birth control pill is best while breastfeeding?

The Progesterone only pill (mini-pill POP)
The progesterone only contraceptive pill (mini-pill) is generally recommended during breastfeeding. It needs to be taken at the same time every day continuously – a delay of more than 3 hours may mean contraceptive protection is lost.

Does nuvaring affect milk supply?

If breastfeeding is going well after six weeks postpartum, it’s okay for you to use the ring. If you’re not producing as much milk as you’d like, or if your baby is having any trouble nursing, though, the ring may not be a good choice for you, because it may reduce the amount of milk you produce by a bit.

Why you shouldn’t take birth control while breastfeeding?

If you are breastfeeding, then any contraception containing oestrogen (such as the vaginal ring and the combined pill) is not recommended unless your baby is at least six weeks old and at least half bottle fed, because it may reduce your supply of breastmilk.

What is the best birth control for postpartum?

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 contraceptive method that does not interfere with breastfeeding?

Yes, if you’re breastfeeding, you can safely use hormonal methods. They won’t hurt you or your baby. 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.

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.

What birth control doesn’t affect your milk supply?

Implants. You can prevent pregnancy for up to 3 years with a special stick that’s the size of a match. Your doctor implants it just under your skin in your upper arm. This form of birth control only has the hormone progestin, so it doesn’t affect your milk supply.

What nutrients does NuvaRing deplete?

It has been shown that the key nutrient depletions concern folic acid, vitamins B2, B6, B12, vitamin C and E and the minerals magnesium, selenium and zinc. Most research has focused on the levels of these vitamins and minerals in the blood of women who take OCs compared to women who do not.

How to increase milk supply on birth control?

Many moms notice their milk supply decreases with any hormonal birth control. To overcome that, breastfeed more often and pump after feeding for the first few weeks on the mini-pill. If your breastmilk supply continues to drop, call a lactation consultant for advice on increasing your supply again.

Natasha Lunn

Tash is an IBCLC and Business Coach helping fellow IBCLCs create fun, profitable businesses that are more than just an expensive hobby. Before becoming an IBCLC and starting her private practice - The Boobala, Tash graduated as an Osteopath in 2008 and has been in Private Practice in South West Sydney. She was also a volunteer Breastfeeding Counsellor and Community Educator with the Australian Breastfeeding Association for 6 years. Through her business, Your Lactation Biz, Tash coaches and creates products to help new and seasoned IBCLCs build businesses that suit their personality and lifestyle.

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