Can I Use Breastfeeding as an Effective Contraceptive

If used properly, breastfeeding can be 98 percent effective at preventing pregnancy within the first six months after the baby’s delivery.

However, it’s not as simple as it sounds. LAM requires a very precise method.

👉🏼First, you must have a baby who is less than 6 months old.
👉🏼Second, you must exclusively breastfeed your infant, with feedings at least every four to six hours apart.

If you use formula or solid foods in addition to breastfeeding, this method won’t work.
👉🏼Lastly, if you’ve had a period since childbirth, this method is no longer effective.

Research shows that only 26 percent of women practicing LAM actually met the criteria for it.

If you’re using breastfeeding as a form of birth control, talk with your doctor about a backup method if you’re trying to avoid pregnancy

Here are some backup options while breastfeeding;

✅IUD (Intrauterine device) >99% effective
✅POP(Progestin only pill) 87%-99.7%
✅Barrier Method (Condoms; Male & Female, Sponge, Cervical cap, Diaphragm)
✅Implants (Only available Long acting Reversible Contraceptive)
✅Etc

NB: Whatever you may have heard, breastfeeding alone cannot be considered a reliable birth control method.

It is adviced you contact your OBGYN for the best preferred back up option.

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