Breastfeeding and Contraception: What Every New Mum Should Know

Hey there, Mumma! Is your contraception or birth control decreasing your milk supply? As an experienced mum who struggled with low milk supply, a Lactation Consultant, and a Child Health Nurse who works with many postpartum women, I’ve seen firsthand how important it is to navigate this carefully. Let’s talk about breastfeeding and contraception so that you can walk away knowing exactly how to choose a contraceptive method that will not interfere with your milk supply or have you becoming pregnant sooner than you wanted.

In this post, we’re going to talk about the potential effects of certain contraceptive options on breastfeeding so that you can choose a method that will protect the well-being of you, your baby and breastfeeding. We’ll cover everything from the safest birth control methods while breastfeeding to the potential impact of contraception on milk supply. We’ll also explore whether breastfeeding alone can prevent pregnancy. Let’s dive in!

The Importance of Postpartum Contraception

Postpartum contraception is super important. Now that you’ve welcomed your little bundle of joy into the world, it’s natural to focus on their needs, but it’s equally crucial to think about your own health and well-being. Postpartum contraception options come in all shapes and sizes, from non-hormonal choices like condoms to hormonal methods such as the pill or long-acting options like the IUD or implant. Figuring out what’s right for you depends on factors like your health, whether you’re breastfeeding, your future family plans, and what feels most comfortable for you.

Contraception can also help you with ideal birth spacing. Having a longer time between pregnancies gives your body the chance to recover fully from pregnancy and childbirth, which means you’ll have more energy and feel better overall. The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends 2-3 years between pregnancies. This also gives you the space you need to focus on breastfeeding and bonding with your little one without worrying about another pregnancy right away. This time is crucial for setting up a strong milk supply and giving your baby the best start in life. Plus, becoming pregnant while breastfeeding can decrease or stop your milk supply, so, giving yourself the time you need between pregnancies is essential for yours and baby’s health, and your breastfeeding journey!

When it comes to breastfeeding and contraception, there are a few key things you need to know.

Some contraceptive methods can affect your milk supply.

Some contraceptive methods can affect your milk production. Hormonal contraceptives containing oestrogen, such as combined oral contraceptives, can prevent milk supply from building after birth and decrease milk supply if started later on in the postpartum period. It’s crucial to be aware of these potential side effects and discuss them with your healthcare provider before starting any new contraception after the birth of your baby.

Breastfeeding can provide protection against pregnancy, but it’s not a guaranteed form of contraception.

Breastfeeding can be a really effective contraception when certain conditions are just right. This is called the Lactational Amenorrhea Method (LAM) and it’s 98% effective when you meet ALL of these conditions:

• Your periods have not returned.
• AND your baby is less than 6 months of age.
• AND you are exclusively breastfeeding (your baby is having no other foods or drinks, including formula).

If you don’t meet ALL of these conditions, there is a higher chance you can become pregnant, so you will need to use another form of contraception. Knowing this can help you make informed decisions about your family planning goals.

Support and guidance are important here.

Whether it’s getting advice from Lactation Consultants and/or your doctor, getting accurate information will help you to make the right choice for you and your family.

So, What is the Safest Birth Control While Breastfeeding?

When it comes to choosing contraception while breastfeeding, it comes down to hormones. The options that are considered safest are:

• The Lactational Amenorrhea Method (LAM)
• Barrier methods like condoms or diaphragm
• Non-hormonal contraceptives such as copper intrauterine device (IUD).
• Progestin-only hormonal options are considered safe when started after 6 weeks postpartum. Earlier placement can interfere with developing a good milk supply. These include:
  • • • The progestin only pill (minipill)
      • Hormonal IUD’s such as Mirena
      • Implants such as Implanon
      • DMPA injection (Depot medroxyprogesterone acetate, also known as Depo-Provera)

There is a high risk of interference and decrease in milk supply when using Oestrogen-containing hormonal options like “the pill”.

What about “Emergency Contraception”?

“Morning after” or “Plan B” pills that contain levonorgestrel are preferred as other emergency pills can affect milk supply in the same way. The copper IUD is another effective emergency contraceptive that is breastfeeding safe.

It’s essential to explore these options with your healthcare provider to find the best fit for you and your baby.

Navigating the realm of breastfeeding and contraception can feel overwhelming, but armed with the right information, you can make empowered decisions for yourself and your baby. Understanding the potential effects of contraceptive options on breastfeeding is crucial to ensuring your milk supply stays high enough for your baby and your family planning goals are met. Remember, support and guidance are invaluable resources on this journey—whether it’s seeking advice from lactation consultants or discussing options with your healthcare provider, don’t hesitate to reach out. By choosing a contraception method that aligns with your needs, lifestyle and breastfeeding goals, you can continue to nourish and protect your baby through breastfeeding while protecting your own health and well-being. So, Mumma, take the time to explore your options, ask questions, and trust yourself—you’ve got this!

Did you find this post helpful? I’d love to know what you took away from reading this. Pop on over to Instagram and let me know in the DMs. Can’t wait to hear from you! 😊