Lactation and contraception.

Abstract

The contraceptive effect of breastfeeding has been quantified in population-based surveys, and decreases in breastfeeding would require increase in contraceptive practice in order to keep total fertility in check. A consensus was recently achieved on the use of lactational amenorrhea for family planning. Lactational amenorrhea during nearly-full breastfeeding for the first six months postpartum can be considered an appropriate complement to contemporary family planning methods. It is especially useful when compliance and continuation with other contraceptive methods are poor. Physicians have often undervalued the contraceptive effectiveness of lactational amenorrhea, yet obstetricians and gynecologists are ideally placed to promote both breastfeeding and family planning. They have unique opportunities to influence both hospital practices and societal perceptions regarding breastfeeding.