Written By: Bhavyajyoti Chilukoti | Published : April 22, 2016 6:29 PM IST
Hi, I am a 30-years-old female. I delivered a baby boy four months back. Can I start taking oral contraceptive pills (OCPs) while I am breastfeeding? Will it have any effect on my or my baby's health? Please help. I am very worried.
Dr Geetika Gangwani, Business Manager, Fortis Mamma Mia, Lactation Consultant at IBCLC, Member of Medela s LC Club says, According to research, when you start taking oral contraceptives during breastfeeding your milk production goes down. And this is the reason why lactating mothers are recommended to avoid taking oral contraceptive pills (OCPs) while breastfeeding. Moreover, breastfeeding acts as a natural contraceptive in some cases. A woman who is breastfeeding and has a child below 6 months of age and her periods have still not resumed, there is no need for contraception.
However, if you are still planning to take oral contraceptives, it is advised to consult your gynaecologist, who might prescribe OCPs which are compatible during breastfeeding. As these medications are loaded with hormones, there are high chances of hormonal imbalance as you breastfeed, which might lead to reduced breast milk supply. Hence, consulting a doctor before opting might help you to ensure that your breast milk production and supply isn t reduced. Here are few tips to keep in the mind, if you are planning to take oral contraceptive pills while breastfeeding.
Although there are no research studies stating the impact of oral contraceptives on the mother's health while breastfeeding, but it might hinder breastmilk supply. So consult your doctor, advises Dr Geetika. Also, read about 10 things you should NEVER do while breastfeeding.
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