Contraception

Lactational amenorrhea

Alsolactational amenorrhoea methodbreastfeeding as contraceptionLAMlactational amenorrhoeabreastfeeding contraception

Not yet reviewed by a clinician. This health entry was written from the public-health sources listed below and is general information only. It is not medical advice.

Definition

Lactational amenorrhea is the natural pause in ovulation and periods that can happen with frequent, exclusive breastfeeding after birth, and it can be used as temporary contraception.

At a glance

  • It is the natural pause in ovulation and periods that can occur with exclusive breastfeeding.
  • It is only reliable while the baby is under six months old.
  • The baby must be fed only or almost only breast milk, day and night.
  • Periods must not have returned.
  • Once any condition changes, another method is needed.

In detail

It is only reliable when three conditions are all met: the baby is under six months old, the baby is fed only or almost only breast milk, day and night, and periods have not returned. In those conditions it is around 98% effective.

Once any condition changes, such as longer gaps between feeds, the introduction of other foods or the return of bleeding, another method is needed. Many progestogen-only methods and non-hormonal options are compatible with breastfeeding.

In a sentence

  • The midwife explained that lactational amenorrhea only works if all three conditions are met.
  • We relied on lactational amenorrhea for a few months, then I got the implant.

Where the word comes from

"Amenorrhea" comes from Greek roots meaning "without monthly flow"; "lactational" refers to breastfeeding. The method is often abbreviated to LAM. British spelling is "amenorrhoea".

Common questions

Can breastfeeding prevent pregnancy?

It can, but only when all three conditions are met: the baby is under six months, fed only or almost only breast milk day and night, and periods have not returned. In those conditions it is around 98% effective.

What contraception can be used while breastfeeding?

Many progestogen-only methods and non-hormonal options are compatible with breastfeeding. A midwife, clinician or sexual health service can help choose one.

Related terms

Sources

  1. Planned ParenthoodBreastfeeding as Birth Control
  2. WHOFamily planning/contraception methods