Many new parents have questions about birth control and breastfeeding. Discussing the difference between non-hormonal and hormonal methods with your partner and health care provider is important!
Non-hormonal methods of contraception
These methods are compatible with breastfeeding but remember, no method is 100% effective against pregnancy regardless of whether you are breastfeeding or not.
- Barrier methods (condom, diaphragm, cervical cap, sponge)
- Non-hormonal IUD (coil)
- Spermicides
- Natural Family Planning (Fertility Awareness)
- Lactational Amenorrhea Method (LAM) (see below)
Lactational Amenorrhea Method (LAM)
The return to fertility is individual for each breastfeeding parent. There is a possibility of getting pregnant while breastfeeding. Exclusive breastfeeding can be used as a reliable form of contraception in the first six months after birth, if all three of the following conditions are true for you:
- Your baby is less than six months old.
- Your periods have not returned (no spotting).
- Your baby is breastfeeding exclusively on cue day and night, without regularly using a pacifier, or receiving any other food or drink including water.
If these conditions apply, your chances of becoming pregnant are less than 2%, which is the same effectiveness as condoms. However, each person is different and no method of contraception is 100% effective.
Hormonal methods of contraception
These methods may reduce your milk supply especially in the early months after birth.
- Contraceptive pill, including progestin only and combinations of estrogen and progestin
- Contraceptive implants, injections and patches
- Hormonal IUD (coil)
- Vaginal ring
If a hormonal contraceptive is your preference, the World Health Organization recommends using a progestin only method and waiting until your baby is at least six weeks old to allow time for your milk supply to be well-established.
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References:
Mohrbacher, Nancy. (2020). Breastfeeding Answers: A Guide for Helping Families, Second Edition. Nancy Mohrbacher Solutions, Inc.
MyHealth.Alberta.ca (2018, November 2). Sexual and Reproductive Health: Lactation Amenorrhea Method (LAM). Government of Alberta.
MyHealth.Alberta.ca. (2021, June 16). Learning About Natural Family Planning. Government of Alberta.
Updated 2022