After delivery, it is recommended that you start a contraceptive method, such as a progesterone pill, a condom, or an IUD, to prevent unwanted pregnancy and allow the body to fully recover from the previous pregnancy, especially in the first 6 months.
Breastfeeding itself is a natural contraceptive method, but only when the baby is exclusively breastfeeding and several times a day, since the sucking of the baby and milk production increase the amount progesterone, which is a hormone that prevents ovulation. However, this is not a very effective method, since many women end up getting pregnant in this period.
Thus, the most recommended contraceptive methods for breastfeeding women are:
1. Oral or injectable contraceptive
The contraceptive that can be used during this period is what only contains progesterone, both injectable and tablet, also called minipill. This method should be started 15 days after delivery, and remain until the baby starts to breastfeed only 1 or 2 times a day, which is around 9 months to 1 year of age, and then be switched to conventional contraceptive of 2 hormones.
The mini-pill is a method that can fail, so it is ideal to combine another method, such as the condom, to ensure safety. Ask other questions about the use of contraceptives in breastfeeding.
2. Subcutaneous Implant
The progesterone implant is a small stick inserted under the skin, which gradually releases the amount of daily hormone needed to inhibit ovulation. Because it contains only progesterone in its composition, it can safely be used by breastfeeding women.
Its application is done with local anesthesia, in a procedure of few minutes, in the region of the arm, where it can remain for up to 3 years, but can be removed any time the woman wishes.
3. IUD
The IUD is a very effective and practical method of contraception, since there is no need to remember when to use it. The hormone IUD can also be used because it releases only small doses of progesterone in the uterus.
It is inserted in the gynecologist's office, about 6 weeks after delivery, and can last up to 10 years in the case of the copper IUD and 5 to 7 years in the case of the hormonal IUD, but can be withdrawn at any time desired by the woman.
4. Condom
The use of condoms, male or female, is a good alternative for women who do not want to use hormones, which, in addition to preventing pregnancy, also protects the woman against diseases.
It is a safe and effective method, but it is important to evaluate the validity of the condom and that it is a brand approved by INMETRO, which is the body that supervises the quality of the product. See the other mistakes that can be made when using the male condom.
5. Diaphragm or vaginal ring
It is a small flexible ring, made of latex or silicone, which can be placed by the woman before intimate contact, preventing sperm from reaching the uterus. This method does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases, and to prevent pregnancy, can only be withdrawn between 8 to 24 hours after intercourse.
Natural contraceptive methods
Contraceptive methods known as natural, such as coitus interruptus, tabletop method or temperature control should not be used as they are very ineffective and can lead to an unwanted pregnancy. If in doubt, it is possible to talk with the gynecologist to tailor the best method to the needs of each woman, thus avoiding an unwanted pregnancy.
