Considering postpartum contraception is crucial to ensure an appropriate interval between pregnancies and provide mothers with autonomy. However, breastfeeding mothers need to choose suitable methods to avoid affecting the baby and milk production. Among these methods, contraceptive pills for breastfeeding are a popular choice.
Safe Contraceptive Pills for Breastfeeding
- Progestin-Only Pills (POPs) – contraceptive pills for breastfeeding: These are the top-recommended contraceptives for postpartum women, especially during exclusive breastfeeding. POPs do not contain estrogen, which can reduce milk supply, but only use progestin, a hormone that prevents ovulation, thickens cervical mucus, and alters the uterine lining to prevent pregnancy. Common POPs include Embevin and Cerazette.
- Combined Oral Contraceptives (COCs): These pills contain both estrogen and progestin and are usually prescribed after the baby is weaned. However, in some cases, women can use COCs immediately postpartum if they do not significantly affect milk supply.
- Emergency Contraceptive Pills: Postpartum contraception is necessary in cases of unprotected intercourse or accidents. Some emergency contraceptives containing levonorgestrel are considered safe while breastfeeding. Postinor is one such option.
Postpartum contraception is necessary in cases of unprotected intercourse or accidents
Choosing the Right Contraceptive Pill for Breastfeeding Mothers
Selecting contraceptive pills for breastfeeding requires consultation with a doctor to consider important factors such as:
- Timing Postpartum: POPs can be started as early as six weeks postpartum.
- Breastfeeding Intensity: POPs are entirely safe for exclusive breastfeeding mothers. COCs can be used but require monitoring for their impact on milk supply.
- Mother’s Health: Certain health conditions may contraindicate specific contraceptives.
- Contraceptive Efficacy: Both POPs, COCs, and emergency contraceptives are highly effective when used correctly.
Both POPs, COCs, and emergency contraceptives are highly effective when used correctly
Guidelines for Safe Use of Contraceptive Pills While Breastfeeding
- Dosage and Administration – contraceptive pills for breastfeeding: Follow the specific instructions provided by your doctor. Daily contraceptive pills should be taken at the same time each day.
- Timing: Your doctor will advise you on the appropriate time to start taking the pills based on the type of contraceptive.
- Monitoring Side Effects – contraceptive pills for breastfeeding: Watch for symptoms such as headaches, nausea, and breast tenderness, and inform your doctor if you experience any unusual signs.
Benefits and Alternative Contraceptive Methods
Benefits of Contraceptive Pills While Breastfeeding:
- Safe and do not affect the quality and supply of milk
- High contraceptive efficacy
- Help regulate menstrual cycles and reduce prolonged bleeding in some women
Alternative Methods: Condoms and withdrawal are also used but generally have lower contraceptive success rates compared to pills.
Common Questions About Contraceptive Pills for Breastfeeding
How long after childbirth can I start taking contraceptive pills?
- Progestin-only pills (POPs) can be started around 6 weeks postpartum.
- Combined oral contraceptives (COCs) are usually considered after the baby reduces breastfeeding or is weaned.
- The specific timing depends on the mother’s health, so it is always important to consult a doctor.
Can emergency contraceptive pills be used while breastfeeding?
- Some emergency contraceptive pills containing levonorgestrel are considered safe while breastfeeding. Examples include Postinor.
- It is advisable to take the pill as soon as possible after unprotected intercourse.
- Although safe, emergency contraceptive pills should not be used frequently but only in necessary situations.
Do contraceptive pills affect milk supply while breastfeeding?
- POPs do not significantly affect the quantity or quality of breast milk.
- COCs can reduce milk supply in some women and need to be closely monitored when used.
- Studies have not recorded any harmful effects on the baby when the mother uses safe contraceptive pills.
Which contraceptive pills should be chosen for breastfeeding?
- The top priority is progestin-only pills (POPs).
- Specific choices (e.g., Embevin, Cerazette) should be based on a doctor’s advice after considering the mother’s health, postpartum period, and personal preferences.
- Emergency contraceptive pills should only be used in genuinely necessary cases.
Where can contraceptive pills for breastfeeding be purchased, and how much do they cost?
- Contraceptive pills are widely available at pharmacies nationwide.
- Prices can vary depending on the type of pill and the brand.
- It is advisable to consult a doctor for recommendations on the appropriate type of pill before purchasing, to avoid self-medication.
Always consult a doctor for advice on the suitable type of pill before purchasing, to avoid self-medication
Scientific Evidence about “
Impact of Progestin-Only Pills (POPs) on Milk Supply:
- WHO Study (2015): Analysis of data from 15 studies shows that POPs do not affect milk supply.
- Sivin et al. (2013): A study comparing milk supply in women using POPs and those not using them found no significant difference.
Safety of Emergency Contraceptives While Breastfeeding:
- WHO Guidelines on Postpartum Contraception (2018): Emergency contraceptives containing levonorgestrel are safe for breastfeeding women.
- Glasier et al. (2010): No serious side effects were recorded in breastfed babies when mothers used emergency contraceptives.
This article provides information on “contraceptive pills for breastfeeding” and related knowledge. Hopefully, it will be helpful to you.
References:
Which Forms of Birth Control Are Safe to Use While Breastfeeding? – Healthlinehealthline·1
Which Birth Control Can I Take While Breastfeeding? – Verywell Healthverywellhealth·3
Kiểm Duyệt Nội Dung
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