When it comes to the birth control pill there are a few things you should probably know.
The big question has always been about whether or not you can be on the pill after breastfeeding? Will there be problems with breast feeding if you take hormones? Does breast milk loose quality or stop.
The main thing to avoid is contraceptives that contain estrogen, which can reduce your milk supply. So women who are breastfeeding need to stay clear of birth-control pills that contain estrogen and progestin, as well as the Patch (a bandage like square that delivers hormones into your bloodstream) and the Ring (which you insert into your vagina, where it releases hormones).
Instead, you could use a “mini-Pill” — a progestin-only contraceptive, such as Micronor, that won’t affect milk supply. (One caveat: It’s important to take the mini-Pill at the same time every day for optimal effectiveness.)
You can also safely use an intrauterine contraceptive (IUC) or try any barrier method, such as a diaphragm, cervical cap, sponge, condom, and Leah’s Shield (a reusable rubber insert) if you do not want to get pregnant.
If you are not sure whether or not you are done having babies then the IUC is idea. There are two types.
The first, the Mirena IUC, releases a steady stream of progestin and is the most popular birth control with female ob-gyns.
This is because it is better at preventing pregnancy than tubal ligation if it stays in place, says Dr. Meckstroth. It changes the texture of cervical mucus so that it blocks sperm from reaching the eggs. It can also prevent ovulation. It’s approved for up to five years, and once it’s removed you can get pregnant right away.
There’s also ParaGard, an IUC that’s approved for up to ten years and doesn’t use hormones. It releases copper instead, which experts think creates an environment that’s toxic to sperm. It may also keep the egg from attaching to the uterus.
Another option is the Implanon, a matchstick-size rod that’s implanted under the skin of your arm to release progestin and lasts for up to three years. One downside to using this is that It often causes breakthrough bleeding, so you’d have to be willing to put up with that.
If you want to get pregnant soon the only option you should avoid is the Depo-Provera injection. That is because it can delay fertility for up to a year.
Of course for real advice about this matter you really do need to see a doctor.