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Breastfeeding can be a healthy and connecting process between a mother and her child, but it may also serve as a kind of natural contraception. So what is its effectiveness? Is it possible that a female can become pregnant while breastfeeding? Bust the myths and here are the facts.
The Lactational Amenorrhea Method (LAM)
A woman does not get her period during breastfeeding, particularly during the initial 6 months after giving birth. This is referred to as lactational amenorrhea, and this is due to the elevated prolactin hormone levels, which inhibit ovulation.
LAM may be as effective as 98 per cent of birth control; however, it is only effective under a particular condition:
- The infant is below 6 months old
- The mother has been breastfeeding (no formula or solids)
- Periods are yet to come back
As soon as one of these states is altered, the performance decreases considerably.
So, Can You Get Pregnant While Breastfeeding?
Yes, absolutely! Many women have gotten pregnant during the breastfeeding period, and particularly after:
- The frequency of breastfeeding is being reduced
- Feeding with solids or bottle feeding
- Their menstrual cycle comes back
Ovulation can silently happen even before you have your first period, and you can conceive without knowing that you have resumed your fertility.
Why Do People Think It’s Not Possible?
The idea of breastfeeding as a way to avoid pregnancy is a result of the customary practices, particularly in the rural population. Although it does postpone fertility, it cannot be guaranteed as long as not all the stringent LAM factors are adhered to.
This hormonal balance may be upset by modern lifestyles, working moms, irregular breastfeeding routines or night weaning.
What Are the Chances?
- During the initial 6 months of exclusive breastfeeding, there is a ~2 per cent possibility
- In more than 6 months or on mixed feeding, the risk increases to 612 per cent
- Following resumption of menses: Equal pregnancy risk compared to non-lactating women
Thus, although breastfeeding can temporarily make birth control possible by decreasing fertility rates, it can not be used as a long-term birth control method.
How to Avoid an Unplanned Pregnancy While Breastfeeding
In case you do not intend to have more children soon, you can use contraception:
- Mini-pill (Progestin-only pill) is Safe for breastfeeding
- An intrauterine device (IUD) is a Long-term choice that is highly effective
- Condoms- Non-hormonal and safe
- Implants or injections- Talk to your doctor
It is best to always check with a gynaecologist or a fertility expert on the best form of birth control that fits you.
Can Breastfeeding Affect Future Fertility?
No, there is no long-term impact on fertility. When you cease or lessen breastfeeding, ovulation usually returns, and your pregnancy odds become normal.
When your cycles do not restart within a year after you have given birth, and you are not breastfeeding, then it is high time to have a medical check-up.
Planning for the Next Pregnancy?
Inter-pregnancy intervals are not only significant to the maternal health but also to the child. WHO suggests that there should be a minimum interval of 24 months between a live birth and a subsequent conception.
Breastfeeding has the potential to aid in spacing, but not necessarily. When you are prepared to get baby #2 or when you have been trying to conceive and you are not having any luck while you are breastfeeding, you need to see a fertility specialist so that they can test your hormone levels and ovulatory cycles.
Trust Mannat Fertility Centre
At Mannat Fertility Centre, we also guide women in realising their reproductive schedule and cycle even during breastfeeding. Are you interested in getting pregnant once again or preventing unwanted pregnancy? Our specialists will assist you.
