Can I get pregnant while breastfeeding?
If you’re here for a quick answer to this question…Yes!
But…you can use breastfeeding to help avoid pregnancy if you know these few things below. In this blog post, we will explore what lactational amenorrhea is, how it works, and what you need to know if you're considering using it as a form of contraception.
When does fertility return after having a baby?
The average return of ovulation after birth in the United States can vary depending on several factors, including breastfeeding practices, age, and previous birth control use. However, in general, ovulation can return as early as three weeks after giving birth, but it is more common for it to return between six to twelve weeks postpartum. This return to fertility can occur even while breastfeeding
What is Lactational Amenorrhea?
Lactational amenorrhea refers to the natural suppression of ovulation that occurs during breastfeeding. It is a temporary form of birth control that can be very effective, as long as certain conditions are met. During lactation, the hormone prolactin is produced, which helps to suppress ovulation. This means that the mother is less likely to ovulate and therefore less likely to become pregnant.
How does Lactational Amenorrhea work?
The effectiveness of lactational amenorrhea as a form of birth control depends on several factors.
The baby must be breastfeeding frequently and exclusively. This means that the baby is feeding only on breast milk and not receiving any other liquids or solids. The more the baby breastfeeds, the more prolactin is produced, and the more effective the contraception will be.
Lactational amenorrhea is most effective in the first six months after giving birth. After this time, the mother's fertility can return, and ovulation can occur even while breastfeeding.
Lactational amenorrhea is not a reliable form of contraception if the mother is pumping breast milk or using formula. This is because the baby's sucking at the breast stimulates the release of prolactin, which is what helps to suppress ovulation.
What are the advantages and disadvantages of Lactational Amenorrhea?
The advantages of lactational amenorrhea are that it is a natural form of contraception, and it can be very effective if used correctly. It also has no side effects, and it is free.
The disadvantages of lactational amenorrhea are that it requires exclusive breastfeeding, which can be difficult for some mothers. It is also not a long-term form of contraception, as fertility can return after six months. Additionally, it does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.
Conclusion
Lactational amenorrhea is a natural form of contraception that can be very effective if used correctly. It is a temporary form of birth control that can be used in the first six months after giving birth. However, it is important to remember that lactational amenorrhea is not a reliable form of contraception if the mother is not exclusively breastfeeding, pumping breast milk, or using formula. If you are considering using lactational amenorrhea as a form of contraception, it is important to speak with your healthcare provider to determine if it is right for you.
I am a registered nurse in the State of Florida and an International Board Certified Lactation Consultant (IBCLC). The content on this blog page is for informational and educational use only. I have taken reasonable steps to ensure that the information shared is accurate, but I cannot guarantee that it is free from errors. The information shared here does not take the place of a medical provider, nor establishes any kind of client relationship with myself as a registered nurse or a lactation consultant. I am not your IBCLC or RN unless you book a consult with me directly and we establish a patient/caregiver relationship.