Which birth control is best for breastfeeding moms?

Understanding Birth Control Options for Breastfeeding Moms
For new mothers navigating the complexities of postpartum life, the question of effective birth control while breastfeeding is paramount. With the myriad of options available, it’s essential to understand which methods are safe and effective during this critical period.
Safety of Birth Control While Breastfeeding
The good news for breastfeeding mothers is that many forms of birth control are safe to use without adversely affecting milk supply or the health of the baby. According to health experts, non-hormonal birth control methods can be used safely during breastfeeding, providing a reliable option for those who prefer to avoid hormones altogether.
Hormonal Birth Control: Progestin-Only Options
When it comes to hormonal methods, progestin-only contraceptives are generally recommended for breastfeeding mothers. These include options like the mini-pill, birth control shots, and hormonal IUDs. Research indicates that most mothers do not experience issues with milk supply when these methods are initiated after the first 6 to 8 weeks postpartum. This timing is crucial, as it allows the mother’s milk supply to stabilize before introducing hormones.
Combined Hormonal Contraceptives
While progestin-only methods are preferred, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) does not outright prohibit the use of combined hormonal contraceptives, which contain both estrogen and progestin. However, healthcare providers often advise against using these methods in the first six weeks after delivery due to potential risks, including a slight increase in blood clots.
Barrier Methods and Natural Family Planning
For those who prefer toThe Best Birth Control Options for Breastfeeding Moms
As a breastfeeding mom, it’s important to choose a birth control method that is safe for both you and your baby. According to the available research, the best birth control options for breastfeeding moms are:
Progestin-Only Methods:
– Progestin-Only Pills (Mini-Pills): These contain only the hormone progestin and are considered safe for breastfeeding moms.
– Hormonal IUD (Mirena, Skyla, Kyleena, Liletta): These IUDs release a low, steady dose of progestin and are a good option for breastfeeding women.
– Contraceptive Implant (Nexplanon): This small rod inserted under the skin releases progestin and is safe to use while breastfeeding.
– Contraceptive Injection (Depo-Provera): This shot contains only progestin and can be used safely by breastfeeding moms.
Non-Hormonal Methods:
– Copper IUD (ParaGard): This IUD contains no hormones and is a safe, effective option for breastfeeding women.
– Condoms: Using condoms is a non-hormonal, barrier method that poses no risk to breastfeeding.
– Fertility Awareness Methods: Tracking your cycle to avoid sex during fertile times can be an effective natural birth control option.
Breastfeeding as Birth Control:
– The Lactational Amenorrhea Method (LAM) can be an effective natural birth control option, but requires strict adherence to frequent, on-demand breastfeeding.
Overall, progestin-only and non-hormonal birth control methods are considered the safest options for breastfeeding moms. It’s important to discuss the best choice with your healthcare provider.

What is 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.

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).

Does the mini-pill cause weight gain?

A 2014 review looked at 49 different studies of combined pills and found no evidence that the contraceptive pill causes significant weight gain. A review of 16 studies of the minipill also did not suggest it was a cause of weight gain.

What birth control doesn’t affect your milk supply?

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. You may be able to get an implant or IUD in the hospital or at your postpartum checkup.

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).

How can I prevent pregnancy while breastfeeding naturally?

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.

What birth control can you use while breastfeeding?

Implants, Injections, and Patches
These hormone-based birth control methods last longer than a daily pill, and some won’t reduce your milk supply.

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.

Which birth control has the least side effects?

Below are few birth control methods with least side effects:

• Sterilization: This provides up to 99.5% effectiveness in preventing pregnancy.
• Contraceptive patch: This provides up to 92% effectiveness in preventing pregnancy.
• Emergency contraception: This provides up to 89% effectiveness in preventing pregnancy.

What is the best pill for breastfeeding moms?

The Progesterone only pill (mini-pill POP)
The POP is generally started a minimum of 3 weeks after delivery but ideally no less than 6 weeks to avoid interfering with milk production.