Is breastfeeding a form of birth control?
The first method of birth control that will be discussed is Lactational Amenorrhea Method ( LAM). It is a temporary family planning method for six months. The LAM is effective when a woman does not have her period, the baby is exclusively breastfed and is less than 6 months old.The LAM is 98.8 to 99.1% effective while breastfeeding for the first 6 months. Therefore, using exclusive breastfeeding as a birth control method can be effective for six months after giving birth. However, it is only a temporary birth control method.Exclusively breastfeed means no other substitutes can be used such as formula. Additionally, the baby has to eat at least every four hours during the day and every six hours at night. The second choice of birth control methods after LAM should be nonhormonal. One kind of birth control method is a nonhormonal method, a condom. Condoms also offer some protection against STDS, Sexually Transmitted Diseases. Diaphragms have no effect on breastfeeding and can be used. However, they need to be refitted after the baby is born around your six weeks to check up. Cervical Cap and Vaginal Sponges are another Permanent methods include a vasectomy for men and a tubal ligation for women. These methods are usually irreversible.They pose no risk to breastfeeding.used. However, because it is difficult during breastfeeding to interpret signs of fertility, a doctor will need to work with you and help you figure out when you may need extended periods of abstinence. In other words, it involves abstaining from sexual intercourse during a woman's fertile period each month. The fourth method contains estrogen, such as the standard combined oral contraceptive pills.These methods often decrease the milk supply. If a mother chooses this method, the baby should be monitored to make sure he is getting enough milk and is gaining weight properly.