Contraceptives are always the best option for those returning to sexual activity soon after the baby is born. When the postpartum confinement ends and sex returns to the “puerperant” woman’s life, all possible precautions should be taken to avoid surprises and also the dreaded back-to-back pregnancy. Breastfeeding is the most important stage for both mother and baby1. In addition to providing unparalleled strength for the baby, it also aids the woman’s recovery after delivery. But do you know which contraceptive is suitable for breastfeeding women?
Ideal medication
First of all, we must remember that any medication, including postpartum contraceptives, should only be used under medical guidance. But to give you an idea of what to expect at this stage, we’ll list the contraceptives most appropriate during breastfeeding.
Contraception during breastfeeding is generally indicated with a formulation containing only one hormone. Most of these are based on synthetic progesterone. This natural hormone in a woman’s body prevents pregnancy and is ideal to help maintain breast milk production for as long as the woman wishes to breastfeed. It is safe and easily accessible. However, the way it is taken varies and should be determined by the physician overseeing the woman2.
Best-known and most widely used contraceptives:
Cerazette: Continuous-use, non-stop pill based on synthetic progesterone. The active ingredient in this pill is the progestogen desogestrel alone.
Micronor: Contains norethisterone, also derived from progesterone, with 35 pills per pack. The recommendation is for continuous use. Micronor is suitable for those who have recently given birth and are returning to contraception, as it is a low-dose hormonal pill.
Minipil: Also containing progesterone, Minipil is relatively new on the market but is gaining more users due to its effectiveness and low cost. It is also recommended for women who have just given birth and those who are breastfeeding.
Depo Provera: Do not confuse with Provera! This is an injectable medication also based on progesterone like Provera, but with a longer-lasting effect. Depo Provera lasts about three months in the body. Its advantages often outweigh the disadvantages, but it should be a shared decision with your doctor to weigh “cost” versus benefits. As with any injectable medication, Depo Provera cannot be stopped mid-treatment if something goes wrong. You must wait the recommended time before resuming another formulation or contraceptive method.
The pros and cons of contraceptives while breastfeeding
Like any other contraceptive, contraceptives for breastfeeding women in pill or injectable form can bring side effects3. Some of these effects include drowsiness, breast enlargement and tenderness, weight gain, and also breakthrough bleeding. In fact, breakthrough bleeding is the most common side effect of any pill based on progesterone.
Side effects
Too much or too little can cause these brown spotting for a few days. If it persists, you should consult your doctor to adjust the dosage or switch the brand of your breastfeeding contraceptive. This adjustment usually has an effect if breakthrough bleeding is persistent. Other symptoms vary and can only be felt differently from one body to another.
Leg pain, a feeling of heaviness, and abdominal bloating are also common. How the body processes and tolerates progesterone, as well as the dosage needed, varies, since each body requires a minimum amount of medication to work. For those breastfeeding, progesterone is usually used in very low doses, just enough to inhibit ovulation.
IMPORTANT: It is not advisable to use the same contraceptive as a friend, acquaintance, or family member who is breastfeeding. It may not suit you due to the progesterone dosage and due to variations in hormone processing even during manufacturing.
Obstetrician’s recommendation
You should seek your obstetrician—who assisted you during your delivery—when resuming your sexual life, and ask for the most suitable medication for your body. After that, take the contraceptive for at least 28 days, even while breastfeeding, before having unprotected sex and letting your guard down.
Your body needs time to adjust to contraceptive medication, so ideally wait or take precautions for the first few days with the new medication. Some women adapt very well to this type of contraception while breastfeeding. However, others may experience side effects like headaches, swelling, cramps, and other problems. In general, this type of medication is well tolerated by the body.
It’s also worth speaking with your doctor about other forms of contraception, such as the IUD (hormonal or not) or even an implant. Remember that those breastfeeding have a lower chance of getting pregnant quickly, especially in the first and second months after delivery. But it can still happen! Contraception will bring more peace of mind to your new sex life. Enjoy it safely and with peace of mind!
See also: Injectable Contraceptives – More Benefits or Disadvantages?
