Using birth control

There are 5 methods of birth control you can use while you're breastfeeding:

• male condoms and female condoms – as soon you feel ready to have sex
• any progestogen-only method, including the progestogen-only pill, implant and injection – these can be started immediately after birth
• the combined contraceptive pill (also called the pill) can be used from 6 weeks after giving birth if breastfeeding (3 weeks after giving birth if not breastfeeding)
• intrauterine methods – your midwife or doctor can advise you about the best times to have these put in
• lactational amenorrhoea method (LAM)

For more information on contraception while breastfeeding, talk to your midwife, health visitor or family planning nurse.