Oh, that is such a weighted question for most new Mums. There are a number of factors to take into consideration. It’s about your preference for either hormonal or non-hormonal methods, your partners and what has worked for you previously.
For the first 3 weeks after giving birth, it’s recommended not to use a method that has the hormone estrogen, like the pill, patch, or ring. It is said that after 3 weeks, you may start any of these methods. Ask your health practitioner on your first checkup or prior to giving birth.
Perhaps you feel more inclined to use non-hormonal methods and would prefer to stay with less invasive methods. Non-hormonal birth control options include condoms, internal condoms, diaphragm and cervical cap.
If you have used a diaphragm or cervical cap in the past, wait until your first postpartum checkup to begin using that method again. Most doctors will recommend that you don’t put anything in your vagina until your first checkup, somewhere between 3-6 weeks. You may also need a new size. Many doctors also recommended to abstain from sex until after 6 weeks of giving birth.
So what if you are over the condoms and other non-hormonal methods. Is there anything else?
Well, yes. There is the Lactational Amenorrhea Method (LAM), which offer 98% protection from pregnancy for fully-breastfeeding Mums with no periods whose babies are younger than 6 months.
TIPS:
LAM only works if:
- You are fully breastfeeding during the day and night. The baby is only receiving your milk.
- You have not started your periods. (Bleeding during the first 2 months is not a period. After 2 months, bleeding or spotting that lasts at least 2 days is classed as a period).
- The baby is younger than 6 months.
Fully breastfeeding means:
- No regular use of formula, water, juice or baby food.
- Baby does not go longer than 6 hours without breastfeeding.
What if I miss a breastfeed?
- Mums who are sometimes away from their baby for up to 6 hours can replace one breastfeeding with pumping or hand expression.
- Mums who are often separated from their babies should not use LAM.
Yours in health and happiness
Sandy B Simmons
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Read more here...
https://theraftoflife.com/resources/blog/postpartum-contraception-lam
If you need more information, contact a Natural Fertility Educator or Family Planning clinic.