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Birth Control: BreastFeeding
Dear Anai,
We have a 3 month old and are concerned about getting pregnant. Does breast feeding stop ovulation?
Thank you,
Fiona from Clearwater, Florida USA
Dear Fiona,
LAM (Lactation Amenorrhoea Method) suppresses ovulation due to breast feeding your infant. It changes the body's hormones, to trick the reproductive system to think you are still pregnant. The result being you do not release an egg for fertilization. It has a success rate of 98% if there are no menses during the first five to six months or as long as you are breast feeding your baby.
The other benefits of breast feeding are as follows:
- Increased immunity to your baby
- Better nutrition
- You decrease postpartum bleeding
- Breast feeding increases the contractions to your uterus, helping it
get back into shape
- Increases your metabolism
- Bonding with your new baby
You may notice some vaginal dryness during this time. Use a gentle lubricant. In addition, your nipples may become red, swollen, or develop dry skin. In the event that this occurs, see your doctor for special creams to help ease these symptoms.
© Copyright 2000 Anai Rhoads.
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