Is Breastfeeding a Form of Natural Contraception?

On the issue of breastfeeding and fertility, many people tend to believe one of two extremes: that breastfeeding is not a reliable form of birth control under any circumstances, or that a woman who is breastfeeding doesn't have to worry at all about pregnancy.

The truth is, you can be infertile while breastfeeding, but it depends on many circumstances. The Lactational Amenorrhea Method (LAM) is a method of natural birth control that depends on the fact that, as long as her periods haven't returned yet during the first 6 months postpartum, a breastfeeding mother has a very low chance of being fertile and therefore getting of pregnant. According to Kellymom.com, the effectiveness of LAM with perfect use is 0.5 pregnancies per 100 women, and, with typical use, 2 pregnancies per 100 women. This is more effective than using a condom or using a diaphragm.

It is important to mention first off that if you don't understand the rules of using breastfeeding as a form of contraception, or absolutely do NOT want to risk getting pregnant soon after giving birth, it is best to use a physical form of contraception. That being said, breastfeeding can act as a natural form of contraception for the first 6 months after birth, as long as several rules are followed. It is important to know and understand all of these conditions before considering depending on breastfeeding to prevent pregnancy.

3 Criteria for Using LAM

It has been less than 6 months since you gave birth

This method can only be used during your baby's first 6 months. After that point, fertility goes up.

Your periods have not returned

If at any point during the first 6 months you get your period, you should stop relying on breastfeeding and use a backup method of birth control. Your period could have been an anovulatory one, meaning no egg was released, but in that case consider it a "warning period" and know that the following month ovulation may occur.

Your baby is fully breastfed, during the day and night

In order for ovulation to be suppressed, your baby should be exclusively breastfed (some say the method can still be used if you are almost exclusively breastfeeding. However, for LAM to be most effective, it is much better to be breastfeeding exclusively.). You should also be giving your baby both daytime and nighttime feedings. Feedings should be occurring at least every 4 hours during the day and at least every 6 hours at night.

Additional Helpful Habits

There are several other habits to keep if you want to increase the effectiveness of the lactational amenorrhea method. One of these is to make sure your baby is getting all his or her sucking needs from you. This means no bottles or pacifiers. You should also breastfeed on demand rather than on a set schedule. If you supplement with formula, you should use another method of birth control.

References

BabyCenter: Lactational Amenorrhea Method (LAM)

FHI: Lactational Amenorrhea FAQ

Kelly Mom: Breastfeeding and Fertility