Breastfeeding is a very healthy way to feed a baby. Breast milk is full of nutrients that help the baby to grow strong and healthy. In addition to the benefits that breastfeeding provides for a baby, breastfeeding can also benefit the mother. Women who breastfeed may experience changes in fertility rates, according to Breastfeeding.com.
LAM
LAM, which stands for lactational amenorrhea method, refers to a birth control method that women who fully breastfeed their babies and use no formula may experience. Kelly Bonyata, International Board Certified Lactation Consultant, states that exclusively breastfeeding a baby can delay fertility for up to 6 months after a baby is born.
Myths About LAM
Lactational amenorrhea method is misunderstood by many women, breastfeeding and non-breastfeeding. Bonyata states that while some women believe that any amount of breastfeeding delays fertility, the truth is that LAM is only effective if a woman breastfeeds often, if she breastfeeds without giving formula and if her menstrual period has not returned yet. Additionally, some women believe that LAM is not effective, but Bonyata states it is very effective when used correctly.
Ecological Breastfeeding
Bonyata explains on her website that ecological breastfeeding is a type of breastfeeding that is most natural and most effective for LAM. She states that ecological breastfeeding is when a mom breastfeeds a baby both day and night, whenever the baby is hungry. A mom who practices ecological breastfeeding does not use bottles or pacifiers and usually lies down to breastfeed her baby at night.
Effectiveness
The effectiveness of LAM is high provided that the woman follows the guidelines completely. Bonyata states that exclusively breastfeeding a baby is 98 percent to 99.5 percent effective at preventing a pregnancy for up to 6 months after the baby is born and if the woman's periods have not returned yet. Furthermore, she states that perfect use of the LAM method of birth control is more effective than perfect use of oral contraceptives.
Other Birth Control Methods
Some women, whether they are exclusively breastfeeding their baby or not, may want to consider using other birth control methods. The website Breastfeeding.com states that condoms are the best protection next to the LAM method, followed by methods like injectable birth control and implants, which usually do not alter a woman's breast milk supply.
