Page Content
- What is the safest birth control while breastfeeding?
- Does the progesterone pill cause weight gain?
- What contraceptive pill can you take while breastfeeding?
- Which drug is usually avoided with breastfeeding?
- What is the best birth control for breastfeeding moms?
- What are the chances of getting pregnant while breastfeeding?
- Will NuvaRing dry up my milk?
- Can you finish inside with NuvaRing?
- What are the best pills to take while breastfeeding?
- Will birth control affect my breast milk supply?
Understanding Birth Control Options While Breastfeeding
Navigating the world of postpartum birth control can be particularly challenging for new mothers, especially those who are breastfeeding. While breastfeeding itself can naturally reduce the chances of conception, it does not eliminate the possibility entirely. Therefore, understanding which birth control methods are safe and effective during this period is crucial for many women.
Non-Hormonal Birth Control Methods
For breastfeeding mothers, non-hormonal birth control methods are often recommended as they do not interfere with milk supply. Barrier methods, such as male and female condoms, are safe options. These methods not only prevent pregnancy but also protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Additionally, other non-hormonal options include diaphragms and cervical caps, which can be used effectively without introducing hormones into the body.
Hormonal Birth Control Options
While some hormonal contraceptives can be used during breastfeeding, caution is advised. Low-dose hormonal methods, such as the progestin-only pill (often referred to as the “mini-pill”), are considered safe for breastfeeding mothers. These pills do not significantly affect milk production and can be a convenient option for those looking to prevent pregnancy.
Another popular choice is the intrauterine device (IUD). Both hormonal IUDs, like Mirena, and non-hormonal options, such as ParaGard, are highly effective and can be inserted shortly after childbirth or during a follow-up visit around six weeks postpartum. The hormonal IUD releases a small amount of hormone locally, which is unlikely to affect breastfeeding.
Timing and Consultation
It is generally recommended that mothers wait until about six weeks postpartum to start using contraceptives. This timing allows for the establishment of a stable milk supply. However, it is essential for mothers to consult with their healthcare providers to discuss the best options tailored to their individual health needs and breastfeeding goals.
Conclusion
In summary, breastfeeding mothers have a variety of safe birth control options available to them. Non-hormonal methods, such as condoms and IUDs, are effective and do not interfere with milk supply. Hormonal options, particularly low-dose methods, can also be considered with proper guidance. Ultimately, the choice of birth control should be made in consultation with healthcare professionals to ensure both the mother’s and baby’s health are prioritized.
What is the safest birth control while breastfeeding?
Option #2: Mini-pill
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.
Does the progesterone pill cause weight gain?
Side effects of the progestogen-only pill
Your periods may be lighter, more frequent or may stop altogether. You may get some bleeding (spotting) between periods. Some people may get acne, mood swings, weight gain or changes to sex drive (libido).
What contraceptive pill can you take while breastfeeding?
There are 4 methods of birth control you can use while you’re breastfeeding:
- male condoms and female condoms – as soon you feel ready to have sex.
- any progestogen-only method, including the progestogen-only pill, implant and injection – these can be started immediately after birth.
Which drug is usually avoided with breastfeeding?
Table. Examples of drugs contraindicated in breastfeeding.
| Drug | Comment |
|---|---|
| Iodine | High doses (>150 micrograms daily) lead to risk of infant hypothyroidism |
| Lithium | Breastfeeding only feasible with rigorous monitoring |
| Radiopharmaceuticals | Contact obstetric information service |
| Retinoids (oral) | Potential for serious adverse effects |
What is the best birth control for breastfeeding moms?
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 are the chances 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.
Will NuvaRing dry up my milk?
Hormonal birth control methods that contain estrogen, like NuvaRing, may decrease the amount of milk you make.
Can you finish inside with NuvaRing?
Do I have to take the ring out during sex? Nope. In fact, it’s best to leave the ring in your vagina as much as possible. NuvaRing and Annovera are made to be worn all the time, including during sex.
What are the best pills to take while 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.
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.
