Breastfeeding and Birth Control: What You Need to Know
Breastfeeding is a natural and beautiful way to nourish your baby. It provides numerous benefits for both the mother and the baby, such as bonding, immune system support, and better digestion. However, many new mothers may have concerns about how breastfeeding affects their ability to use birth control. In this blog post, we will discuss everything you need to know about breastfeeding and birth control.
Breastfeeding and Fertility
First, let’s address the common misconception that breastfeeding can prevent pregnancy. While breastfeeding can delay the return of ovulation, it is not a reliable method of birth control. This is because ovulation can occur before a woman gets her first postpartum period. This means that a woman can become pregnant without ever having a period after giving birth.
Breastfeeding and Hormonal Birth Control
Hormonal birth control methods, such as the pill, patch, ring, or shot, contain synthetic hormones that prevent ovulation, making it difficult for sperm to fertilize an egg. These hormones can also affect the production of breast milk. Estrogen, in particular, can decrease milk supply. Therefore, it is recommended to wait at least six weeks after giving birth before starting any hormonal birth control method.
Progestin-Only Birth Control Options
If you are exclusively breastfeeding, the best birth control option for you is a progestin-only method. These methods, such as the mini-pill, hormonal IUD, and the implant, do not contain estrogen and are less likely to affect milk supply. It is also safe to use these methods while breastfeeding, even if your baby is less than six weeks old.
Barrier Methods
Breastfeeding and Birth Control: What You Need to Know
Barrier methods, such as condoms, diaphragms, and cervical caps, are also safe to use while breastfeeding. They do not contain any hormones, so they do not affect milk supply or the quality of breast milk. However, it is essential to use these methods correctly and consistently to prevent pregnancy.
Emergency Contraception
In the case of an emergency, such as a broken condom or missed birth control pill, emergency contraception can be used. The most common form of emergency contraception is the morning-after pill, which contains a high dose of hormones to prevent ovulation. While there is no evidence that this method affects breastfeeding, it is recommended to pump and discard your breast milk for 24 hours after taking the pill to avoid exposing your baby to a high dose of hormones.
Natural Family Planning
Natural family planning involves tracking your menstrual cycle and avoiding sex during your fertile window to prevent pregnancy. This method is not recommended for new mothers, as it can be challenging to track your cycle while breastfeeding. Additionally, since your fertility can return before your first postpartum period, it is not a reliable method of birth control.
Talk to Your Doctor
It is essential to talk to your doctor about your birth control options while breastfeeding. They can help you choose the best method for your specific needs and provide guidance on how to use it correctly. They can also monitor your milk supply and make any necessary adjustments if needed.
Summary:
Breastfeeding is a natural and beneficial way to feed your baby, but it is not a reliable method of birth control. While breastfeeding can delay the return of ovulation, it is still possible to get pregnant without having a period. Hormonal birth control methods can affect milk supply, so it is recommended to wait at least six weeks after giving birth before starting them. Progestin-only methods and barrier methods are safe to use while breastfeeding. Emergency contraception can also be used, but it is recommended to pump and discard breast milk for 24 hours after taking it. Natural family planning is not a reliable method for new mothers. It is essential to talk to your doctor about your birth control options while breastfeeding.