Birth Control while Breastfeeding?

Question

Does anyone know of a birth control pill that is safe during breastfeeding?

Answer 1

as far as i know the mini pill is the best
Progestin-only contraceptives are the preferred choice for breastfeeding mothers when something hormonal is desired or necessary.

Progestin-only contraceptives come in several different forms:

* the progestin-only pill (POP) also called the "mini-pill" (Micronor, Errin, Nor-QD, Ovrette, Microval, etc)
* the birth control injection (Depo Provera)
* the progesterone-releasing IUD (Mirena, Progestasert)
* the birth control implant (Norplant, Implanon).

Milk supply: For most mothers, progestin-only forms of contraception do not cause problems with milk supply if started after the 6th-8th week postpartum and if given at normal doses. However, there are many reports (most anecdotal but nevertheless worth paying attention to) that some women do experience supply problems with these pills, so if you choose this method you still need to proceed with some caution.

If you're interested in one of the longer lasting progestin-only forms of birth control (the Depo-Provera shot lasts at least 12 weeks, but effects may be seen up to a year; the Mirena/Progestasert IUD and the Norplant implant can last up to 5 years), it may be a good idea to do a trial of progestin-only pills (mini-pill) for a month or more before deciding on the longer-term form of birth control. If you find that you are among the women whose supply drops significantly due to progestin-only birth control, you can simply discontinue the pills - rather than struggling with low milk supply for several months until the shot wears off or you get the implant or IUD removed.

Do note that the Mirena/Progestasert IUD delivers its hormone directly to the lining of the uterus, which only leads to a slight increase in progesterone levels in the blood stream (much lower than that found with the progesterone-only pill). As a result, there is much less chance of side effects from the progesterone than from the Depo-Provera shot or mini-pill.

Milk composition: At higher doses than normal this type of pill can affect the content of breastmilk. At these higher doses it has been shown to decrease the protein/nitrogen and lactose content of the milk. At regular doses, this does not seem to be as likely.

it really recommends you dont take any pill on till you are at least 6 weeks postpartum
im breast feeding and my son is nearly 18 months we have been ttc for about 5 months to no avail which is unusual for us

Answer 2

I too am breastfeeding and the only type of pill you can take is a progesterone only pill and even those can decrease your milk supply. An IUD is probably your best bet. Just research all your options. With me, I couldn't have an IUD so we are taking our chances with no birth control.

Answer 3

Most doctors prefer the mini pill Micron. That's what I was prescribed but I haven't taken it because I'm afraid it will lessen my milk supply. I've heard from some moms that it has done that so I'm just staying away from it!

Answer 4

You should ask your doctor about it... but I asked a few weeks ago (I am due and plan to breast feed) and my doctor told me they do have birth control that is very low dose and I believe it is only estrogen... no progesterone... or its the other way around... im not sure.:)

but there is definitely something out there for you!

Answer 5

you can take birth control that does not contain estrogen. the "mini pill" contains only progesterone, and is safe. IUD's are safe, as well as the depo shot.

Answer 6

Yes, the "mini Pill" is a progesterone only pill and is compatible with nursing. It is not as effective, however. Your ob/gyn can prescribe it

Answer 7

I forget the name of the pill I was on but it began with a M. It is low estrogen ask you ob just to be sure!!

Answer 8

Progesterone only pills are usually presribed.

Answer 9

i wouldn't risk taking any bc while breastfeeding

Answer 10

im taking the nor-q-d tab