Expert breast feeding cannot prevent pregnancy
I think there may be some misinformation here!
Breastfeeding, when done correctly and consistently, can actually help prevent pregnancy in several ways:
- Hormonal suppression: Breastfeeding suppresses the production of prolactin, a hormone that stimulates ovulation. This can delay the return of menstruation and ovulation, making it more difficult to get pregnant.
- Prostaglandins: Breast milk contains prostaglandins, which can help prevent ovulation by stimulating the uterus and reducing the likelihood of ovulation.
- Luteal phase: Breastfeeding can also affect the luteal phase of the menstrual cycle, which is the phase after ovulation when the body prepares for a potential pregnancy. Breastfeeding can shorten the luteal phase, making it less likely for a pregnancy to occur.
- Frequency and duration: The frequency and duration of breastfeeding can also impact fertility. The more frequently and longer a mother breastfeeds, the more likely it is to delay the return of menstruation and ovulation.
However, it's important to note that breastfeeding alone is not a foolproof method of preventing pregnancy. Other factors, such as the frequency and duration of breastfeeding, the mother's overall health, and the presence of other hormonal influences, can also impact fertility.
Additionally, breastfeeding does not provide 100% protection against pregnancy. Women who are breastfeeding can still get pregnant, especially if they:
- Wean their babies too early
- Have irregular or frequent breastfeeding schedules
- Experience hormonal changes or other health issues that affect fertility
- Engage in sexual activity without using effective contraception
It's always important for women who are breastfeeding and trying to avoid pregnancy to use additional forms of contraception, such as condoms, hormonal birth control, or intrauterine devices (IUDs), to ensure effective protection against unintended pregnancy.