Breastfeeding and birth control: The best methods for milk supply

If you’re a breastfeeding mom who is nursing your baby, you want to avoid anything that might hurt that precious milk supply.  But if you’re not ready for a baby to have a younger brother or sister in nine months, you need a birth control plan. So what are the best contraception options for breastfeeding that won’t decrease milk production?

While it’s true that breastfeeding can delay the return of fertility—especially in the first few months postpartum—it’s not a guarantee. That’s why many new parents choose a backup birth control method to help prevent pregnancy and protect their milk supply.

Breastfeeding as birth control

You may have heard that you can’t get pregnant while breastfeeding, but relying on nursing alone to prevent pregnancy probably isn’t an air-tight plan. Although breastfeeding as birth control can be highly effective, it only works under very specific conditions—this method is known as the Lactational Amenorrhea Method (LAM).

According to Planned Parenthood®, LAM can be effective when the key criteria are met:

• You’re less than 6 months postpartum
• You’re exclusively breastfeeding—nursing at least every 4 hours during the day and every 6 hours at night, with no formula, solid food, or long stretches between feeds
• Your period hasn’t returned (bleeding after 56 days postpartum counts as a period)

When these conditions are met, breastfeeding naturally suppresses ovulation, reducing your chance of getting pregnant. But this protection is temporary. As soon as you begin nursing less often or your period comes back, LAM is no longer effective, and you’ll need another pregnancy prevention strategy.

Many people who are breastfeeding choose to use a backup method of birth control to avoid the stress of timing ovulation or managing an unplanned pregnancy. The good news? There are safe, effective options that won’t interfere with your milk supply—and Nurx can help you find the one that fits your needs.

Birth control pills while breastfeeding

When it comes to taking birth control while breastfeeding, the pill is still an option, but it’s important to choose the right kind. Some types of birth control pills are more breastfeeding-friendly than others, especially in the early weeks postpartum. The key difference comes down to whether the pill contains estrogen, which can affect milk supply, or just progestin, which generally does not. 

Progestin‑only pills (minipill) and breastfeeding

Hormonal birth control containing only progestin—commonly called the minipill—is often the first choice for breastfeeding parents. It’s considered safe for nursing infants and is not known to interfere with milk production. In fact, it’s frequently recommended immediately postpartum because it doesn’t carry the same clotting risks associated with estrogen-containing methods.

Progestin-only pills work by thickening cervical mucus and thinning the uterine lining, and sometimes by preventing ovulation. While they’re safe for lactating people, the key to their effectiveness is taking them at the same time every day. Missing a dose or taking it late by just a few hours can increase your risk of pregnancy.

Combined birth control pills, ring, and patch

Birth control methods that contain estrogen and progestin—like the pill, patch, and ring—are not recommended during the early postpartum period, especially for people who are breastfeeding. Estrogen can reduce milk supply, and these methods also increase the risk of venous thromboembolism (VTE), particularly in the first 6 weeks after childbirth.

For people who prefer a combined hormonal method, most healthcare providers recommend waiting until at least 6 weeks postpartum, and only if breastfeeding is well-established and milk supply is stable. Even then, ongoing monitoring is helpful to ensure the method isn’t interfering with lactation.

If you’re interested in switching to a combined method later on, talk with your provider about your health history and your breastfeeding goals. You may decide to start with a progestin-only option and transition later, or continue with a method that supports both effective contraception and your feeding preferences.

LARC methods (contraception shots, implants, and IUDs) while breastfeeding 

If you want a birth control method that doesn’t require daily attention, long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) can be a great option while breastfeeding. These methods—like the birth control shot, implant, and IUD—are highly effective, safe for your milk supply, and can give you peace of mind during a busy season of life.

For many new parents, remembering a daily pill isn’t realistic. LARC methods offer a lower-maintenance alternative without compromising effectiveness.

Here are some more details about LARC options:

Depo‑Provera® shot

The Depo-Provera® shot is a progestin-only method that can be given immediately after birth, making it a convenient option for new parents who want protection from the start. It’s injected every 12 weeks and doesn’t affect milk supply.

Some people report side effects like changes in weight, mood, or bleeding patterns, but many find the convenience outweighs those risks. If you prefer a method you don’t have to think about often—and are okay with shots—it’s worth considering.

Contraceptive implant

The birth control implant is another progestin-only method and is also safe to use immediately postpartum. It’s placed under the skin of your upper arm. 

The implant doesn’t interfere with breastfeeding or reduce milk supply, and most people don’t feel it once it’s inserted. It’s a great fit if you want a long-term option that’s low-maintenance and reversible.

IUD

Intrauterine devices (IUDs) come in two types: copper and hormonal. Both are safe to use while breastfeeding and don’t negatively affect milk supply.

• Copper IUD (e.g., Paragard®): Hormone-free and lasts up to 10 years. It can be inserted immediately postpartum or at your 6-week checkup.
• Hormonal IUDs (e.g., Mirena®, Skyla®): Release a small amount of progestin locally in the uterus and can last 3–8 years, depending on the brand. Also safe for immediate or delayed insertion.

If you’re looking for long-term birth control that you can essentially “set and forget,” an IUD—whether hormonal or copper—offers flexibility and strong protection without compromising your ability to breastfeed.

Other longer-term birth control methods, such as the birth control patch (which you change once a week) and the ring (which you replace once a month), aren’t great choices for breastfeeding women because they contain estrogen in addition to progestin. Like other combination methods, you may consider eventually switching to one of these methods.

Barrier, non-hormonal, and other options while breastfeeding

If you prefer to avoid hormones altogether while breastfeeding—or just want a non-daily, non-invasive method—there are several safe and effective birth control options to consider.

Barrier methods like condoms, diaphragms, and cervical caps are safe to use at any point postpartum and won’t affect your milk supply. They work by physically blocking sperm from reaching the egg and can be used on their own or in combination with spermicide for added protection. Condoms also offer the added benefit of reducing the risk of sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

The copper IUD (Paragard®) is a long-term, non-hormonal option that’s highly effective and doesn’t interfere with breastfeeding. It can be inserted immediately after birth or at your postpartum checkup, and it provides up to 10 years of pregnancy prevention.

Emergency contraception is also safe to use while breastfeeding. Levonorgestrel-based pills (like Plan B One-Step®) are considered compatible with nursing and don’t affect your milk supply. If you’re concerned about recent unprotected sex or birth control failure, talk to a provider right away to explore your options.

These choices allow for reliable pregnancy prevention while protecting your breastfeeding goals.

How to choose the right method for you 

Choosing a birth control method while breastfeeding is a personal decision—and the best option for you will depend on a few key factors: when you want to have another baby (if at all), how your body is recovering, your health history, and how important it is to protect your milk supply.

Consider your timeline and fertility goals

If you’re planning to grow your family again soon, short-term methods like the mini-pill might make sense. For those looking to avoid pregnancy for a year or longer, long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) like the IUD or implant can offer worry-free protection without daily effort.

Protect your milk supply

Progestin-only and non-hormonal methods are generally the best choices for breastfeeding parents, especially in the first few weeks postpartum. These options—including the mini-pill, the shot, the implant, and the copper IUD—won’t interfere with milk production when used appropriately.

Talk with your partner

It can help to loop your partner into the conversation. Whether it’s planning for future pregnancies or sharing responsibility for birth control (like using condoms), making a decision together can lighten the load during a demanding season of life.

Get personalized guidance

Still unsure? Nurx makes it easy to explore your options. Complete an online health assessment and connect with licensed providers who can recommend safe, effective methods that support both your health and your breastfeeding goals.

Finding your balance between breastfeeding and birth control

Breastfeeding and birth control can absolutely go hand in hand—you don’t have to choose between protecting your milk supply and preventing another pregnancy. The key is finding a method that fits your body, your goals, and your lifestyle. Whether you’re leaning toward something short-term, exploring long-acting options, or just beginning to think about what comes next, you deserve guidance that respects both your health and your choices.

At Nurx, we’re here to make that easier. Our licensed providers understand the postpartum experience and will work with you to recommend safe, effective birth control options that support your breastfeeding journey.

Ready to explore your options? Complete an online health assessment at Nurx to get expert, personalized care delivered to your doorstep.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ): 

What is the best birth control while breastfeeding?

Progestin-only methods like the minipill, implant, and hormonal IUD are generally the best options while breastfeeding because they don’t affect your milk supply. Non-hormonal options like the copper IUD or barrier methods are also safe anytime.

Can birth control decrease milk supply?

Estrogen-containing methods like the combined pill, patch, or ring can sometimes reduce milk supply, especially if started before breastfeeding is well established. Progestin-only methods typically do not affect milk production.

When can I start the pill/ring/patch after giving birth?

Combined hormonal methods are usually recommended to start at least 6 weeks postpartum if your milk supply is well-established and you have no risk factors for blood clots. Progestin-only pills can be started immediately after birth. If you are not breastfeeding, you can start taking combined hormonal birth control at three weeks postpartum.

What is the best birth control for postpartum?

The best postpartum birth control depends on your personal health, breastfeeding goals, and lifestyle. Progestin-only pills, implants, IUDs, and shots are safe and effective options. Talking to a healthcare provider can help you find the right fit for your needs.

The information provided is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You should not rely upon this content for medical advice. If you have any questions or concerns, please talk to a medical professional.

Services not offered in every state. Medications prescribed only if clinically appropriate, based on completion of  required consultation. Individual results may vary.

Depo‑Provera® is not available through Nurx. Learn more about Depo‑Provera® including risks and side effects here. All product names, manufacturer or distributor names, logos, trademarks, and registered marks (“Product Marks”) are the property of their owners and are for identification purposes only. Product Marks do not imply any affiliation, endorsement, connection, or sponsorship by their owner(s) with Nurx. 

Paragard® is not available through Nurx. Learn more about Paragard® including risks and side effects here. All product names, manufacturer or distributor names, logos, trademarks, and registered marks (“Product Marks”) are the property of their owners and are for identification purposes only. Product Marks do not imply any affiliation, endorsement, connection, or sponsorship by their owner(s) with Nurx. 

Mirena® is not available through Nurx. Learn more about Mirena® including risks and side effects here. All product names, manufacturer or distributor names, logos, trademarks, and registered marks (“Product Marks”) are the property of their owners and are for identification purposes only. Product Marks do not imply any affiliation, endorsement, connection, or sponsorship by their owner(s) with Nurx.

Skyla® is not available through Nurx. Learn more about Skyla® including risks and side effects here. All product names, manufacturer or distributor names, logos, trademarks, and registered marks (“Product Marks”) are the property of their owners and are for identification purposes only. Product Marks do not imply any affiliation, endorsement, connection, or sponsorship by their owner(s) with Nurx.

Levonorgestrel/ethinyl estradiol, Rx only, is an oral contraceptive used to prevent pregnancy. This drug may cause side effects, including headaches, irregular and/or heavy uterine bleeding, dysmenorrhea, nausea and/or vomiting and back pain. If you would like to learn more, please see the full prescription information here. You are encouraged to report negative side effects of prescription drugs to the FDA. Visit MedWatch: HTTPS://WWW.FDA.GOV/SAFETY/MEDWATCH /default.htm or call 1-800-FDA-1088.