Hormonal Contraceptives and Breastfeeding: A Review of Literature

ABSTRACT

@#<p>The use of hormonal contraceptives in a breastfeeding patient has been questioned by breastfeeding advocates. Their fear was that hormonal contraceptives will affect the milk production of the patient. This review of literature showed that progestins do not affect breastmilk supply whether it is the progestin only pill (POP), depot medroxyprogesterone acetate, levonorgestrel-containing intrauterine system (LNG-IUS) or the etonogestrel implant (ENG). The timing of administration of the progesterone derivative contraceptive method also does not affect milk production, whether immediately postpartum (within 48 hrs after delivery) or delayed (4 - 6 weeks postpartum). With this in mind, clinicians may safely advise these to breastfeeding patients to prevent unplanned pregnancies.</p>