Breastfeeding is considered a natural contraceptive method. When a woman breastfeeds her baby, prolactin levels are elevated. This prevents ovulation. This mechanism is known as LAM, or the lactational amenorrhea method.
However, for the LAM method to be effective, breastfeeding must be exclusive. Once the woman begins to introduce complementary feeding to her baby, the method loses effectiveness because prolactin levels decrease, and ovulation may return.
Read the full article on: What contraceptive methods can be used during breastfeeding? ( 59).
By Marta Barranquero Gómez B.Sc., M.Sc. (embryologist) and Silvia Azaña Gutiérrez B.Sc., M.Sc. (embryologist).
Last Update: 09/23/2025
