When you are breastfeeding, the question of contraception can feel like just another thing you have to deal with during a time of many changes. Perhaps your period hasn't returned, maybe you don't feel like or have the energy for sex yet, or perhaps you want to avoid another pregnancy right now. Regardless, it's completely natural. Breastfeeding can affect fertility, but it is not in itself a reliable contraceptive solution for everyone.
Can you get pregnant while breastfeeding?
Yes, you can get pregnant while breastfeeding. Ovulation can begin before you get your first period after childbirth. Therefore, it can be difficult to use the absence of menstruation as a sign that you are not fertile.
For some, frequent breastfeeding delays ovulation for a period. This is called the LAM method, which stands for Lactational Amenorrhea Method. The method can only be considered contraception when all conditions are met simultaneously:
- Your baby is under six months old.
- You have not yet had menstruation or bleeding that could be menstruation.
- You are fully or almost fully breastfeeding, both day and night, without long breaks between feedings.
As soon as one of the conditions is no longer met, you should choose another form of contraception if you want to avoid pregnancy. This also applies if breastfeeding becomes less frequent, the child receives other food or milk, or you start having longer breaks at night.
What contraception can be used during breastfeeding?
There are several options for contraception during breastfeeding. The right choice depends, among other things, on your birth, your health, how certainly you want to avoid pregnancy, and whether you prefer a method you have to remember every day, or a solution that takes care of itself over a longer period.
Feel free to talk to your doctor, midwife, or health visitor about your wishes. They can help you find a solution that suits your body and daily life.
- Condom: Can be used when you are ready for intercourse, and is the only form of contraception that also protects against sexually transmitted diseases.
- Minipills: Contain progestogen and are an option for many who breastfeed. They must be taken regularly to work as effectively as possible.
- Hormonal IUD or copper IUD: Are long-acting solutions inserted by a doctor. Hormonal IUD can be used during breastfeeding, and a copper IUD is hormone-free.
- Contraceptive implant: A long-acting hormonal method inserted under the skin of the upper arm by a healthcare professional.
Birth control pills, contraceptive rings, and contraceptive patches contain both estrogen and progestogen. When they are relevant after childbirth depends, among other things, on breastfeeding and your personal risk of blood clots. Therefore, this type of contraception must always be assessed in consultation with your doctor.
When should you start contraception after childbirth?
You don't have to wait for your period to return before deciding on contraception. Fertility can return unpredictably, and it can happen before you notice any signs of a new cycle.
For some, it brings peace of mind to discuss contraception already during pregnancy check-ups or shortly after childbirth. Others need time to first settle into breastfeeding and their new daily life. Both are perfectly fine. The most important thing is that you have a plan before you have sex again without wanting to get pregnant.
How to choose contraception while breastfeeding
There is no one-size-fits-all solution. Instead, try to consider what would feel simple and safe for you in a daily life where much already demands your attention.
- Consider how important it is for you to avoid pregnancy right now.
- Think about whether you want to remember a daily pill, or prefer a long-acting solution.
- Tell your doctor about your birth, any illnesses, medications, and previous experiences with contraception.
- Remember that condoms can be a good supplement, especially if you also need protection against sexually transmitted diseases.
It's also perfectly fine to change your mind. A contraceptive method should work for your life, not the other way around. If you experience discomfort, irregular bleeding, or are unsure about the protection, contact your doctor or another healthcare professional.
Frequently asked questions
Is breastfeeding safe contraception?
Breastfeeding can only be used as contraception according to the LAM method when your baby is under six months old, you have not had your period, and you are fully or almost fully breastfeeding without long breaks. Otherwise, you should use other contraception.
Can I get pregnant before my period returns?
Yes. Ovulation can occur before the first period after childbirth. Therefore, you can get pregnant even if you have not yet had your period.
Can I take minipills while breastfeeding?
Minipills are an option for many breastfeeding women, but it is important to take them as directed. Talk to your doctor about which type suits you and when you can start.
Which contraception also protects against sexually transmitted diseases?
Condoms are the form of contraception that can both prevent pregnancy and protect against sexually transmitted diseases. They can be used alone or with another method.
Dear, you don't have to have all the answers at once. A calm conversation with a professional can make it easier to choose the contraception that gives you peace of mind and space to be present in the time you are in.