Getting pregnant while breastfeeding is a common question among new moms. The answer is yes, you can get pregnant while breastfeeding, but it’s less likely than when you’re not breastfeeding.
Breastfeeding can provide some level of natural contraception, but it’s not foolproof. Breastfeeding isn’t a guaranteed method of birth control.
However, a natural form of birth control, known as the lactational amenorrhea method (LAM), comes with specific guidelines and conditions to be effective. Even then, it’s not entirely risk-free, and pregnancies can and do happen.
Here’s what you need to know about breastfeeding as a form of birth control.
What Are the Chances of Getting Pregnant While Breastfeeding?
LAM is about 98% effective if you follow certain guidelines. However, if you don’t follow these guidelines, your chances of getting pregnant increase.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends these guidelines for maximum protection with the LAM method:
- Amenorrhea — your period hasn’t resumed after delivering your baby.
- You’re fully or nearly fully breastfeeding — supplementing your baby’s diet with formula can reduce the effectiveness of this method.
- You recently delivered — It’s been less than 6 months since you gave birth.
Note that LAM is no longer effective if any of these conditions change, such as your baby starting to eat solid foods or your period returning. You should consider another form of birth control.
How Does the LAM Method Work?
When you breastfeed, your body produces high levels of the hormone prolactin, which helps produce breast milk. This high level of prolactin also suppresses the release of hormones that trigger ovulation (the release of an egg from the ovaries). Without ovulation, pregnancy cannot occur.
Can You Get Pregnant While Breastfeeding if You Haven’t Had Your Period Yet?
Yes, you can get pregnant even if you haven’t had your period yet. This is because ovulation can occur before your period returns. So, getting pregnant before you even get your first postpartum period is possible.
During breastfeeding, your body produces high levels of the hormone prolactin, which helps produce breast milk and suppresses ovulation. However, this suppression isn’t absolute. The body can still release an egg, and if this happens before your period comes back, there’s a chance you can conceive without ever having a menstrual cycle.
Some women may not get their period for several months or even over a year, while others may find their menstrual cycle returns sooner. The timing varies greatly among individuals and can be influenced by factors such as how frequently you breastfeed, whether you supplement with formula and your overall health.
Because ovulation can occur without warning, it’s possible to get pregnant during this time if you’re not using another form of contraception.
How Do I Know if I Am Ovulating While Breastfeeding?
Understanding your body’s signals can help you identify when you might be ovulating, even while breastfeeding. Here are some key signs to look out for.
- Changes in cervical mucus — It may become clear and stretchy, similar to egg whites.
- Increased basal body temperature — A slight rise in your morning temperature can indicate ovulation.
- Ovulation pain — Some women experience mild pelvic pain or discomfort around the time of ovulation.
What Forms of Birth Control Can I Use if I’m Breastfeeding?
If you’re breastfeeding, you have several safe and effective birth control options to choose from.
Here are some of the most common methods.
Hormonal methods
These hormonal birth control methods are safe and effective for breastfeeding parents.
- Progestin-only pills (mini-pills) — These are safe to use while breastfeeding and don’t contain estrogen, which can affect milk supply.
- Birth control implants — A small rod is inserted under the skin of your arm, releasing progestin to prevent pregnancy.
- Hormonal IUDs — These intrauterine devices release progestin and are highly effective. They can be inserted right after childbirth.
- Depo-Provera shot — This is an injection of progestin that provides birth control for three months.
Non-hormonal methods
These non-hormonal birth control methods can help prevent pregnancy and are safe for breastfeeding parents.
- Condoms — Both male and female condoms are safe to use while breastfeeding and also protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
- Copper IUD — This IUD doesn’t contain hormones and can be used while breastfeeding. It’s highly effective and lasts up to 10 years.
- Diaphragm or cervical cap — These barrier methods can be used after your postpartum checkup.
- Sterilization — Procedures like tubal ligation are permanent options for those who are confident they don’t want more children.
It’s important to consult your health care provider to choose the best method for you, considering your health, lifestyle, and breastfeeding status.
When Should I Stop Breastfeeding if I Want to Get Pregnant?
If you want to get pregnant, you don’t necessarily need to stop breastfeeding. However, if you’re trying to conceive, consider reducing the frequency of breastfeeding or introducing solid foods to your baby. This can help your body return to its regular ovulation cycle.
Remember that the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) recommends waiting at least 18 months between pregnancies to give your uterus time to heal, making your next pregnancy safer both for your baby and you.
Is it Safe to Breastfeed if I Get Pregnant?
Yes, you can breastfeed while pregnant. It’s generally safe for both you and your baby. However, you might experience some discomfort or cramping while nursing due to the increased production of oxytocin, the hormone that causes contractions.
What Should I Know About Choosing LAM as Birth Control?
Breastfeeding can reduce the chances of getting pregnant, but it’s not a foolproof method.
Ovulation can occur before your period returns, so it’s possible to get pregnant even without a period. Pay attention to signs of ovulation, like changes in your cervical mucus and basal body temperature.
You don’t need to stop breastfeeding to get pregnant, but reducing breastfeeding frequency might help increase your chances of conception.
Breastfeeding while pregnant is generally safe, but you might experience some discomfort.
If you’re not ready for another pregnancy, it’s a good idea to discuss birth control options with your health care provider. They can offer personalized advice about the best birth control method for you.
Editor's Note: This article was originally published on , and was last reviewed on .