Birth Control While Breastfeeding?

I took the mini pill with my first (for 10 mos) and again for the first 6 weeks after my second until I got the Mirena done.

I was looking for something a little more permanent and less "day to day" this time around so I chose an IUC. I would research it and ask your friends who have them what they think - everyone has a different experience. I haven't had any issues with mine. It is a little uncomfortable to be put in - so take some advil before you go.

Good Luck

I took the mini pill with my first which messed up my milk supply. So with my second I was looking for something more permanent, so I got the Mirena IUD, and I LOVE IT!!! No pill to take everyday and no interruption in my supply. I got it 8 weeks after my daughter was born and she is now 4 1/2 months. I had no side effects, just a little cramping for 2-3 days, not bad though.

Good Luck!

I have heard that getting a IUD is GREAT if you don't want to mess around with the pill. I know that one kind doesnt use any chemicals and one has a very small amount? Just one of the many options :)

My OB put me on the mini-pill, which is progesterone. It is safe for breastfeeding, but is not a reliable form of BC if you are not lactating. If you stop breastfeeding you will need to use a different type of birth control pill.

your dr is the best person to ask for what is safe often the perscription ones might help dry up your milk

Talk to your OB/GYN about Loestrin 24. That's what I was on and it worked, but has low doses of estrogen.

Your OBGYN can perscribe a birth control pill that is safe to take while breast feeding.

*K

My midwife has been willing to do either a low dose pill or an IUD when I was breastfeeding. I have heard great things about Mirena, and my midwife and I are planning to get that in place after this baby.

Hi C.~
Good for you with your home birth! I also delivered a beautiful baby girl at home in our hot tub with my partner, in April! It was the best experience of my life!
As far as birth control pills, I chose a POP pill - progestrin only pill. It's called Micronor. I have been on it for 4 months now and have really enjoyed it. Be careful though. They warn that a stronger pill will be necessary when you stop breast feeding.
All the best!
Warmly~
T.

I used the mini pill. It worked fine for me. But I have heard from others it decreased your supply. You could also check in this book called Medication & Mothers Milk. It's a good resorce.

Good luck!

An IUD or the mini-pill.

My response is going to be different than all the others...Please read no judgement or sarcasm into this. I'm just wondering at the irony of your home water birth compared to seeking unnatural forms of birth control. Just as you trusted your body to bring forth your baby in its proper time, you should also trust it to know when to become pregnant again. If you are nursing on demand, the likelihood of pregnancy is very small. Some may disagree with me, but I firmly believe that the power of life and death is in God's hands. He gives us choices and free will, though. We can leave our bodies totally open to his plan, both in the creation of babies and the birthing of them, or we can take it all into our own hands. I have found an amazing amount of peace in trusting him and praying through each decision that my husband and I make together. We weren't comfortable with using any type of man-made chemical in my body, but we also weren't ready to get pregnant right away after my daughter was born. We used condoms until we were ready. We talked and prayed and talked and prayed, and that was what gave us peace.

I see a lot of recommendations for the "mini-pill", but you can also use condoms. I know it may seem like a hinderance, but it's less of an issue than another baby before you're ready. I couldn't use any chemicals in my body and wound up using an IUD (paragard, i believe). Worked for 4 years. Just be sure to follow the instructions carefully. I liked that form of contraception and it worked for me, but I lapsed on checking the string after a few years and wound up having to go through an ectopic preg. due to a dislodgement. Whatever you use, be sure to follow the instructions closely.

I will caution you about the mini-pill.. my girlfriend got pregnant 2x's while on the mini-pill- even though the doctor said that the first time was a "unusual"

My midwives suggested an IUD for me, and I've been pleased.

I had a water birth too, after my water broke sitting down to Turkey dinner!

I am in the same boat. I have been prescribed a low dose Projesterone birth control pill, called YAZ. I think there are several breast-feeding safe birth control pills. My problem is that it costs $65 a month and my insurance doesn't pay for it....but if I were a male, they would pay for that Bob Dole medicine to get a boner...what is it called? Anyhow, that ARGHS me to no end. :)