Can You Get Pregnant While Breastfeeding? the Risks

Q: Can You Get Pregnant While Breastfeeding? the Risks

Hello, the questioner： After giving birth, exclusive breastfeeding should be accompanied by contraceptive measures starting four months postpartum. <br>The timing of menstruation for breastfeeding women can vary significantly; some may not menstruate for a year, while others may

Regarding the question of whether it is possible to become pregnant during breastfeeding?

Hello Dr.
Chang, I would like to ask you a question amidst your busy schedule.
I gave birth to my son naturally in May of last year, and I have been exclusively breastfeeding him until now, which has been over 8 months.
During this time, my menstrual period has not returned.
Yesterday, my husband and I had intercourse, and afterward, he discovered that the condom had broken.
I have researched a lot online, and there are many claims circulating about "being able to get pregnant while breastfeeding," "the chances of getting pregnant while breastfeeding are very low," or "the chances of getting pregnant while breastfeeding are about 5%-10%," which has left me confused about what is accurate.
Therefore, I would like to ask Dr.
Chang to clarify for me: what is my actual chance of becoming pregnant, high or low? If I want to take a pregnancy test, when would be the best time to test for accuracy? Thank you very much!

Xiao Ai, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2012/01/23

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, the questioner: After giving birth, exclusive breastfeeding should be accompanied by contraceptive measures starting four months postpartum.
The timing of menstruation for breastfeeding women can vary significantly; some may not menstruate for a year, while others may become pregnant again even while still breastfeeding and before their menstruation resumes.
Therefore, do not assume that breastfeeding will prevent menstruation or pregnancy before menstruation occurs.
Ovulation can begin before menstruation, and breastfeeding women may not have any warning signs for the return of their menstrual cycle.
Even with exclusive breastfeeding, the possibility of pregnancy increases after a certain period, and the likelihood varies from person to person.
In your case, you might consider using an intrauterine device (IUD) for contraception (as hormonal contraceptives may affect milk production and condoms have a higher failure rate).
Additionally, it can be used for emergency contraception, and it is advisable to also conduct a urine pregnancy test for better assurance.
Thank you! Wishing you safety and health.
Dr.
Zhang

Reply Date: 2012/01/23

More Info

Breastfeeding and its relationship with fertility is a topic that often raises questions among new mothers. The concern about the possibility of getting pregnant while breastfeeding is valid, especially for those who are not actively seeking to conceive.
To address your question, yes, it is indeed possible to get pregnant while breastfeeding, although the likelihood can vary significantly based on several factors. During the initial months postpartum, many women experience a natural form of contraception known as lactational amenorrhea. This is due to the hormonal changes that occur during breastfeeding, particularly the increased levels of prolactin, which can suppress ovulation. However, this is not a foolproof method of contraception.

Research indicates that the chances of becoming pregnant while exclusively breastfeeding (meaning the baby is receiving only breast milk and no supplementary feeding) are relatively low, especially in the first six months postpartum. The effectiveness of this method can be as high as 98% if certain conditions are met: the mother must be exclusively breastfeeding, her menstrual cycle has not yet resumed, and the baby is under six months old. However, as time goes on and breastfeeding frequency decreases, the risk of ovulation increases, and thus the chances of conceiving also rise.

In your case, since you mentioned that you have been breastfeeding for over eight months and have not yet had your menstrual period, it is possible that you are still experiencing some level of lactational amenorrhea. However, the risk of ovulation cannot be entirely ruled out, especially if your breastfeeding routine has changed or if you have started introducing solid foods to your baby. The fact that the condom broke during intercourse adds to the uncertainty, as sperm can survive in the female reproductive tract for several days.

If you are concerned about the possibility of pregnancy, it is advisable to take a home pregnancy test. These tests are most accurate when taken after a missed period. Since you have not had a menstrual cycle since giving birth, you may want to wait at least two weeks after the incident to take the test for the most reliable result. If the test is positive, it is essential to consult with your healthcare provider to discuss your options and any necessary prenatal care.

In summary, while breastfeeding can reduce the likelihood of pregnancy, it does not eliminate the risk entirely. If you are not ready for another pregnancy, it may be wise to consider additional contraceptive methods, even while breastfeeding. Options such as progestin-only pills (often referred to as the "mini-pill"), IUDs, or other non-hormonal methods can be effective and safe during this period. Always consult with your healthcare provider to find the best approach for your individual circumstances.
In conclusion, while breastfeeding can provide some level of natural contraception, it is not a guarantee against pregnancy. Being informed about your body and the changes it undergoes during this time is crucial for making the best decisions for your family.

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