AVOID ALL HORMONAL CONTRACEPTIVES, INCLUDING PROGESTERONE-ONLY PRODUCTS, IF:

Your baby is premature and/or ill; Your baby is younger than six weeks; You gave birth to multiples; You have had breast surgery; Your milk supply was low with previous children. DIAGNOSED WITH GESTATIONAL DIABETES DURING PREGNANCY? The mini-pill might increase your risk of developing type 2 diabetes. Be sure to discuss your contraceptive options with your healthcare provider.

LAST CHOICE: OESTROGEN-BASED CONTRACEPTIVES

When it comes to combined contraceptives – those containing oestrogen in addition to progesterone – the potential risks usually outweigh the benefits. Oestrogen can have a devastating effect on milk supply, especially when taken in high dosages and/ or shortly after birth. Studies dating back to the 1980s demonstrate that the combination pill can decrease breastmilk production by 20% to 40%. Although newer contraceptives contain lower doses, lactation experts recommend avoiding oestrogen completely for at least six months, and preferably for the duration of breastfeeding.

EMERGENCY CONTRACEPTION

Can you take the morning-after pill? Yes. Should you pump and dump afterwards? No need. Despite the high dosage, hormone levels in the breastmilk will remain acceptable. Your milk supply may drop temporarily, but frequent feeding will restore it soon enough. Once again, a progesterone-only product is best.

IS SURGICAL STERILISATION POSSIBLE?

Post-operative pain might make nursing uncomfortable, but otherwise the procedure has no impact on breastfeeding.