Contraception during lactation: considerations in advising the individual and in formulating programme guidelines

Abstract

SummaryLactating women are at reduced risk of conception, but the individual woman may not wish to accept even a reduced level of risk. The risk increases when infant feeding supplementation begins and an alternative form of contraception is then required for the lactating mother. The relationship between lactation and fertility, trends in prolonged lactation, factors affecting these trends, and contraceptive use during lactation are reviewed. Suggestions for advising individuals and formulating programme guidelines are discussed.