BIRTH CONTROL: BREAST-FEEDING—LACTATIONAL AMENORRHEA METHOD
Posted on 2009 under Men's Health-Erectile Dysfunction | No CommentBreast-feeding prevents ovulation and causes temporary infertility. The stimulation of the nipples encourages the production of prolactin, a hormone necessary for the production of breast milk. It also inhibits the secretion of gonadotropin, a hormone necessary for ovulation. Without the release of an egg, pregnancy cannot take place. If you choose breast-feeding, you will breast-feed your baby on demand.
Breast-feeding as birth control is called the lactational amenorrhea method (LAM). LAM can be effective for up to six months after delivery only if a woman:
• has not had a period since she delivered her baby
• suckles her baby at least six times a day on both breasts
• suckles her baby “on demand” at least every four hours during the day
• provides nighttime breast-feeding at least every six hours—does not let her baby sleep through the night
• does not substitute other foods for a breast-milk meal
• does not rely on the method after six months Supplemental feedings become essential for the good health of the baby after six months. The reduction in breast-feeding stimulates the return of ovulation.
Effectiveness of LAM
Out of 100 women who use LAM, two to six will become pregnant with perfect use in the first six months. Up to 40 will become pregnant with typical use in the first six months.
Some women who rely on LAM incorrectly believe that they will not ovulate until after their first period. It is important to remember that ovulation occurs before menstruation. If a woman relying on LAM has a period, even a very light one, she should consult her health care provider immediately and use another method of birth control.
LAM does not offer protection against sexually transmitted infections.
Advantages of LAM
Breast-feeding has many health advantages for the baby.
• Breast-feeding provides the best nutrition.
• Breast-feeding decreases the likelihood of infection from germs in water, other milk, or formula.
• Breast-feeding increases body contact and enhances comfort for the child and bonding between mother and child.
There are also advantages for mothers.
• LAM is effective in the first six months after delivery.
• LAM is inexpensive.
• LAM works immediately.
• LAM reduces bleeding after delivery.
• LAM requires no supplies or medical supervision. Women may initially benefit from consulting with a lactation expert, and they should be assisted as soon as possible if problems arise so that lactation is not disrupted.
• LAM does not affect the natural hormonal balance of women.
• LAM may offer protection against breast cancer in later years.
Disadvantages of LAM
• There are very high failure rates for women who don’t use LAM correctly and consistently.
• LAM can be relied on for only six months.
• LAM does not protect against sexually transmitted infections.
• Breast-feeding on demand may be difficult within many lifestyles.
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