Breastfeeding and contraception

[BerthaYoung]

Not that it’s an immediate issue (...) but how do EBF mums manage contraception? I’ve seen the combined pill isn’t really recommended as it can affect milk supply, and mini pill is thought to be better, but that even that can have a negative impact. I really value BF for various reasons and don’t want to risk compromising it. But then neither do I fancy using condoms. Oh, for the carefree days of TTC and pregnancy! Luckily a 9 week old baby is a pretty effective barrier method

I went straight back on to the mini pill at first opportunity, think it was 6 or 8 weeks. No issues with milk supply, but bf qas fully established for me by then so maybe that helped.

I was told repeatedly that if you EBF a baby under 6 months and don’t get your period back it’s a form of contraception. Not the ‘best’ but still pretty effective.

I’m 5 months pregnant with a 10 month old DS luckily DH and I wanted another (would probably have sorted more reliable contraception otherwise) but just incase anyone else hears that...don’t trust it!

I have the mirena coil. I don’t even have to think about it, which is nice.

I had the copper coil (which was a nightmare but effective), but on the mini pill now, which is also fine, though I’m no longer bf as was a few years ago.

Definitely don’t chance not using anything. I have a good friend who did years of IVF to have her first and then got pregnant naturally when her baby was 3 months old simply because she trusted bf to act as an effective contraceptive! Obviously she was still as she was 45 with years of fertility struggles behind her and never thought she would have a second. But it can happen clearly!

@Lazypuppy Good to know it didn’t affect BF at all. I think this might be my preferred option... But I’ve previously been told it can take a while for fertility to return after using it, and we do plan a second (just not ^^quite as soon as @Pumpertrumper!) and I’ll be late thirties by then so don’t want to risk it. Though @mindutopia’s friend’s story is a good one!

Am a bit daunted by the coil @Terracottasaur, partly for the commitment (it’s supposed to be in for at least 3 years isn’t it?) and partly out of feeling protective of my cervix. Despite having given birth vaginally Doesn’t the oestrogen have any effect on BF?

I have the implant. No issues at all 😊