title: Premature introduction of progestin-only contraceptive methods during lactation.
abstract: Experts on contraceptive technology concur that progestin-only methods can be used safely during lactation. However, very few studies exist of the effects on lactation of the introduction of progestin-only methods prior to the sixth postpartum week. Since progesterone withdrawal is the likely stimulus that initiates lactogenesis, it appears necessary for natural progesterone levels to decline to baseline before a progestin-only contraceptive is initiated. Therefore, the use of such contraceptive methods should be delayed for at least 3 days after the birth. Non-hormonal methods remain the first choice category of contraceptive methods for breastfeeding women, since there is no possibility that they will interfere with lactation. Progestin-only methods comprise a viable and often desirable next choice category, although the timing of their commencement must be determined with care in order to support lactation.
authors.affiliation: Department of Perinatal Medicine, Royal Women's Hospital, Carlton, Victoria, Australia.
authors.forename: K I
authors.initials: KI
authors.lastname: Kennedy
authors.forename: R V
authors.initials: RV
authors.lastname: Short
authors.forename: M R
authors.initials: MR
authors.lastname: Tully
mesh_terms: D000818:Animals; D003267:Contraception / Q000379:methods*; D003271:Contraceptive Agents, Female / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects; D005260:Female; D006801:Humans; D007774:Lactation / Q000187:drug effects* / Q000502:physiology; D017258:Medroxyprogesterone Acetate / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects; D045167:Progesterone Congeners / Q000008:administration & dosage* / Q000009:adverse effects; D051381:Rats; D013997:Time Factors
chemical_list: D003271:Contraceptive Agents, Female; D045167:Progesterone Congeners; D017258:Medroxyprogesterone Acetate