You’ve just had your baby, you’re breastfeeding and you wonder: is there is any chance I could get pregnant? The possibility exists. Most sources say that breastfeeding is approximately 98% effective as a contraceptive. This method of contraception, Lactational Amenorrhea Method (LAM), is most effective for women who are breastfeeding “full time”, in other words 9 out of 10 daily feedings. The belief is that breastfeeding triggers a hormone that stops ovulation from occurring. If you plan to breastfeed full time for six months to a year you may remain period free the entire time.
That said, every women’s body is different and if you are lucky enough to have a baby that sleeps through the night, ovulation may resume more quickly for you. And here’s the tricky part: you may even release an egg before you begin bleeding again. The simple answer is the following: if you are not breastfeeding full time and are sure you don’t want to get pregnant, it’s always safest to use a barrier method (condoms and diaphragms) as back-up.
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Thought your readers might get some good education on inserting IUDs during nursing and the dangers, from this post:
http://www.wombattheinnsane.com/2007/11/truth-about-iud.html
Thanks for sharing your story Kadi. I have heard about several strange experiences with IUD’s and I’m glad you are speaking out about yours. Much appreciated.
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