After childbirth, many women prioritise family planning and seek reliable birth control options. While breastfeeding provides numerous health benefits for both mother and baby, it does not guarantee contraception. This article explores the best contraception options for breastfeeding mothers, helping them make an informed decision about family planning while supporting both maternal and infant health.

Does Breastfeeding Affect Fertility?

Breastfeeding can delay the return of menstruation due to the hormone prolactin, which stimulates milk production and inhibits ovulation. This natural fertility suppression is called lactational amenorrhea (LAM).

• LAM’s Effectiveness:
  • It’s only effective in the first six months of a baby’s life or until menstruation returns.
  • Exclusive breastfeeding (no formula or solids) and frequent breastfeeding are required (every 4-6 hours during the day and at least once at night) to enhance effectiveness.
  • Once breastfeeding becomes less frequent or supplementary feeds are introduced, ovulation can resume, and pregnancy is possible.

Birth Control Options for Breastfeeding Mothers

Fortunately, there are several safe and effective birth control options available for breastfeeding mothers. Here are five reliable methods:

1. Intrauterine Device (IUD)

The IUD is one of the most effective forms of contraception, with efficacy rates exceeding 99%. There are two types of IUDs that are safe for breastfeeding:

• Copper IUD:
  • No hormones—made of polyethylene wrapped in copper wire.
  • Highly effective, lasts up to 12 years.
  • Does not affect breast milk production directly.
  • May cause heavier menstrual bleeding and uterine cramps in some women, especially in the first few months after insertion.
• Progestin-Only IUD:
  • Releases a small amount of progestin to prevent pregnancy.
  • Some women report slightly decreased milk production, but the amount of progestin released is minimal and stays localized in the uterus.
  • Lasts up to 3 to 5 years, depending on the specific type.
• Key Benefits:
  • Long-term protection with minimal maintenance.
  • Ideal for mothers who want hassle-free contraception while adjusting to new parenthood.

2. Contraceptive Implant

The contraceptive implant is a small, flexible rod inserted under the skin of the upper arm. It releases progestin to prevent pregnancy.

• Efficacy: More than 99% effective.
• Duration: Provides long-term protection for up to 3 years.
• Safety: Safe for breastfeeding mothers and does not negatively affect milk production.
• Benefits:
  • Requires no daily attention.
  • Ideal for mothers who prefer not to take daily pills or visit the doctor frequently for injections.

3. Contraceptive Injection

The progestin-only contraceptive shot is administered every three months.

• Efficacy: More than 99% effective with correct use.
• Safety: Safe for breastfeeding mothers.
• Side Effects: Some women may experience weight gain, along with other possible effects like headaches or mood changes.
• Benefits:
  • Convenient for mothers who prefer not to remember daily pills.

4. Progestin-Only Pills (Mini-Pill)

The mini-pill is a progestin-only oral contraceptive that is safe for breastfeeding mothers.

• Efficacy: Approximately 99% effective with perfect use, but this can drop with typical use if the pill is taken inconsistently.
• Milk Supply: The mini-pill does not affect milk supply in most women, which is one reason it is recommended over combined hormonal pills (which contain both oestrogen and progestin).
• Consistency is Key: The mini-pill must be taken at the same time every day to be effective, which can be challenging for new mothers.

5. Non-Hormonal Methods

Several non-hormonal contraceptive options are also safe for breastfeeding mothers, including:

• Copper IUD (already mentioned above)
• Condoms:
  • Barrier method with no hormonal effects.
  • Requires active participation during intercourse.
• Diaphragm or Cervical Cap:
  • Used with spermicides to block sperm entry.
  • Requires use every time during intercourse.
• Benefits:
  • Suitable for those who prefer non-hormonal methods of contraception.
  • Immediately safe postpartum.

A survey of physicians’ recommendations published in the Journal of Clinical Medicine shows that combined hormonal contraception such as the pill, patch, and vaginal ring, are generally not recommended for breastfeeding mothers, particularly in the early postpartum period. These methods contain oestrogen, which can reduce milk supply and increase the risk of blood clots, especially in the weeks following childbirth.

Conclusion

While breastfeeding offers some degree of natural fertility suppression, it is not a reliable method of contraception. It’s important to choose a birth control method that suits your health needs, lifestyle, and family planning goals.

Before making any decision, consult with your healthcare provider to ensure you choose the best option for your postpartum health and future fertility plans.

References

1. Cleveland Clinic. (2024). Yes, you can get pregnant while breastfeeding. Cleveland Clinic. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/can-you-get-pregnant-while-breastfeeding/
2. J Morse. (2016). Birth Control for Breastfeeding Moms. Bedsider. https://www.bedsider.org/features/256-birth-control-for-breastfeeding-moms
3. National Library of Medicine. (2023). Combined hormonal contraception during breastfeeding—A survey of physician’s recommendations. PubMed Central. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC10671995/
4. Parenthood.org. (2025). What’s the best birth control option while breastfeeding. Planned Parenthood. https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/birth-control/breastfeeding/whats-best-birth-control-option-while-breastfeeding
5. Planned Parenthood Federation of America, Inc. (2025). Breastfeeding. Planned Parenthood. https://www.plannedparenthood.org/learn/birth-control/breastfeeding
6. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG). (2023). Barrier methods of birth control: Spermicide, condom, sponge, diaphragm, and cervical cap. ACOG. https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/barrier-methods-of-birth-control-spermicide-condom-sponge-diaphragm-and-cervical-cap#:~:text=Condoms%20cost%20less%20than%20other,supply%20if%20you%20are%20breastfeeding