Lactational amenorrhoea method of contraception
The lactational amenorrhoea method of contraception is the informed use of breastfeeding for contraception. It is up to 98% effective if all the following criteria are met:
- amenorrhoea persists postpartum
- it is less than 6 months after delivery
- the baby is fully breastfed and there are no long intervals between feeds (eg no more than 4 hours during the day or 6 hours at night).
An additional method of contraception is recommended if the lactational amenorrhoea method is used because ovulation may occur before menstruation restarts, and the time between night feeds can extend unpredictably.
Advantages and disadvantages of the lactational amenorrhoea method of contraception are listed in Advantages and disadvantages of the lactational amenorrhoea method of contraception. Also consider other factors affecting choice of contraceptive method.
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Advantages |
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no associated cost avoids adverse effects of hormones, devices or surgery used for contraception compatible with some cultural or religious beliefs about conception |
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Disadvantages |
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only effective in the first 6 months postpartum high risk of contraceptive failure because stringent requirements must be met to suppress ovulation |