Birth Control and Breastfeeding

iVillage Member
Registered: 04-12-2003
Birth Control and Breastfeeding
3
Mon, 02-26-2007 - 11:13pm

I know that birth control methods containing any type of estrogen will significantly lower your milk supply, and I am (over)due for my postpartum checkup, mostly because I would really like to decide on some birth control while I am there, and the only ones I know of that aren't estrogen based are ones that I wouldn't have the correct amount of effectiveness with (mini pill because I will never remember to take them at the exact same time) or that I do not like based on several friends having severe issues with them ( Depo Provera has wreaked havoc on the bodies of at least four friends of mine). Does anyone have suggestions for another form of BC that won't affect my milk supply for nursing? Does anyone know anything about Mirena (an IUD type of BC)and its effects?

Thanks,

Amber

iVillage Member
Registered: 03-19-2003
Mon, 02-26-2007 - 11:46pm

Mirena is a very popular choice for a lot of women (who are good IUD candidates) these days.

Judie Cl for Birth Control 
iVillage Member
Registered: 12-30-2003
Mon, 02-26-2007 - 11:56pm

Hi Amber, welcome!


      Jill

    

iVillage Member
Registered: 05-18-2006
Tue, 02-27-2007 - 9:19am

I had Mirena put in at my 6 week post partum check up. Some doctors won't do it til 12 weeks because there is a slight risk of uterine rupture. I'm not breast feeding but so far I don't mind the IUD. I can't feel it or the strings (neither can my hubby). It did bring my period on about a week after having it put in. It was uncomfortable to have placed then I had cramping and spotting for about 2 days. That stopped then I had my period which lasted a little longer then normal but it was my first PP period and those are always weird. I have had some spotting off and on since but only enough for a panty liner.

I haven't felt any different since I had mine in a month ago. I feel normal, no breast tenderness or headaches or anything else. I never really had a problem on the pill either though. The IUD is expensive you can call your insurance company to find out what percentage they cover. It's cheaper then the pill if you keep it for at least 2 years and you can have it up to 5. We chose it because the only thing more effective is sterilization. My hubby is on some medication that can cause birth defects so we wanted a pretty fool proof method.

-Mel