It is possible to get pregnant while breastfeeding, so it is recommended to return the contraceptive pill 15 days after giving birth. Not using any contraceptive method in breastfeeding is not very safe, since there are data that about 2 to 15% of women become pregnant this way.
Supposedly, during exclusive breastfeeding, which happens on demand, that is, whenever a baby wishes, ovulation is "impeded" by the stimulation of milk sucking. But for the method to really work, the baby's suckling stimulus needs to be done intensely and very often. This means that breastfeeding should be done day and night, that is, without controlling schedules, which is not always possible and the effectiveness of breastfeeding as contraceptive method is compromised and is advised against.
Find out what contraceptive methods you can choose after giving birth.
Other Common Questions of Breastfeeding
Does Breastfeeding During Pregnancy Hurt?
No. It is possible to continue breastfeeding an older child while you are pregnant again, without any contraindications. However it is not indicated that the woman can breastfeed another child that is not her own child.
Does breastfeeding slow down milk?
No. There is no evidence that if a woman becomes pregnant while breastfeeding an older child her milk decreases, however, if she becomes more tired or emotionally worn out, this can lead to a decrease in breast milk, especially if she does not ingest liquids or get enough rest.
Does breastfeeding increase breast milk?
No. The mere fact that the woman is pregnant again will not increase milk production, but if the woman eats more water and rests enough there may be an increase in production. Thus, if the woman feels more sleepy, which is common in early pregnancy, and able to rest, an increase in breast milk may be noticed, but not necessarily because she is pregnant again.
Is it possible to get pregnant by breastfeeding and taking birth control at the same time?
Yes. Since the woman has not taken the contraceptive correctly there is a risk of getting pregnant while breastfeeding. Just forget to take the pill at the right time to reduce its effectiveness, and as the pills for breastfeeding (Cerazette, Nactali) has a shorter tolerance time of only 3 hours, it is common for forgetfulness to take the pill in the time may lead to a new pregnancy. Other situations that decrease the efficacy of the pill here.
Does breastfeeding hurt the baby that is forming?
No. During breastfeeding, oxytocin is released into the woman's bloodstream, the same hormone, which causes uterine contractions that give birth. However, when the woman breastfeeds the oxytocin released into the blood, it can not act on the uterus, so it does not contract and is not harmful to the new baby that is forming.
Is it possible to breastfeed 2 babies of different ages?
Yes. There is no absolute contraindication for the mother not to breastfeed her 2 children at the same time, but this can be very tiring for the mother. Thus, it is recommended to wean the older baby if he or she has already completed 2 years. Check out some tips that can help end the breastfeeding without trauma or jealousy.
