What Birth Control Methods Can Be Used While Breastfeeding?

There are a variety of birth control methods available to women today, even while breastfeeding. The safest options are hormone-free. A women should always consult a doctor before determining the best birth control method while nursing.

Breastfeeding as Birth Control

A number of sources, including the World Health Organization agree that during the first few months of breastfeeding, a woman's body naturally prevents her from becoming pregnant--called the lactational amenhorrea method. And if the woman has not begun menstruating again and is exclusively breastfeeding her child (no formula supplements), she is said to be 98 percent protected from pregnancy. However, there plenty of women have become pregnant while breastfeeding, and the method is not entirely effective.

Temporary Birth Control

Condoms, diaphragms and spermicides are all safe to use while nursing. These methods are recommended over hormone methods, such as birth control pills, as they don't interfere with the mother's milk.

Permanent Birth Control

A male vasectomy or female tubal ligation provides permanent birth control for a women not wanting more children. Tubal ligation can be done immediately after having a child and won't interfere with breastfeeding. In most cases, the woman can resume sexual activity in a week or so, but consult a doctor before making any decision regarding your health.

Progestin-Only Hormonal Birth Control

It is generally not recommended to use any hormone birth control methods while breastfeeding because the hormones can be transferred to the child through the mother's milk and the mother can also experience reduced milk production. However, some progestin-only (estrogen-free) birth control methods can be used after the first six weeks of breastfeeding. Ask a doctor before beginning any progestin-only birth control like Depo-Provera, Norplant or the mini-pill.

Estrogen Birth Control

Traditional estrogen birth control pills generally are not recommended for nursing mothers. Estrogen hormones make their way into breast milk and can be harmful for developing infants. They also can cause a decrease in milk output.