BIRTH CONTROL METHOD WITH L.A.M
Lactation Amenorrhea Method (LAM) is a form of birth control that relies on
natural ovulation suppression. Here's how it works: As an infant breastfeeds,
prolactin is released. Prolactin inhibits the release of follicle stimulating
hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH). These hormones are responsible for
ovulation (the development and release of eggs).
Used correctly, the risk of pregnancy with LAM is low, according to Dr. David
Barrere, an OB/GYN in Cincinnati, Ohio and Northern Kentucky. Dr. Barrere says
that the duration of ovulation suppression varies and can be influenced by several
factors.
"LAM can be utilized provided that the baby is less than 6 months old,
Mother has exclusively breastfed Baby (no supplements have been used) and she
has not resumed her menstrual period," Dr. Barrere says. "If these
guidelines are met, then the risk of pregnancy is 1 to 2 percent. Another form
of contraception should be used if these three conditions cannot be met."
La Leche League adds that mothers should be nursing or pumping at least every
four hours during the day and six hours at night to make LAM the most effective.
Kerry Seure of Cleveland, Ohio, relies heavily on LAM. "I used LAM after
all three of my children were born," she says. "I have very predictable
cycles, I nurse on demand – including at night in the family bed –
and I never so much as spot until my babies reached 18 months to 2 years old.
I feel very confident that this is the way nature intended the cycle of birth
to end. As long as I don't interrupt what nature perfected, I know I will be
free to concentrate on one baby at a time."
Some women do get pregnant while nursing, and it can seem like it comes out
of nowhere. Because menstruation can return just a few months after giving birth
or may be suppressed for a year or longer, you may not have any idea when your
period will come back. Therefore, it can be difficult to determine when your
first fertile cycle will be until after you have ovulated. (by Michele St.
Martin - BABY.TopResource.NET Reference)
Related Resources : Do
Your Natural Family Planning
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