Can I take birth control pills while breastfeeding?

Women who are breastfeeding can take contraceptive pills, but they should do so under the guidance of a doctor and pay attention to the following issues:

1. Combined hormonal contraceptives containing both estrogen and progestin are not recommended, as they may affect the protein, trace element, and fat content of breast milk, thereby impacting milk quality. If infants consume breast milk containing hormones, it may adversely affect their growth and development—for example, male infants may experience breast development, and female infants may develop vaginal epithelial hyperplasia. If emergency contraception is required after unprotected intercourse during breastfeeding, it is recommended to avoid breastfeeding for 3 days after taking the medication.

2. Progestin-only contraceptive pills can be considered because they have relatively less impact on breast milk, and the risk of their components being transferred to the infant through breast milk is low. However, even when using progestin-only contraceptives, they must be taken under a doctor's supervision, and the infant's response and health condition should be closely monitored.

3. Contraceptive pills should not be the sole or preferred method of contraception during breastfeeding. It is recommended to use other contraceptive methods, such as condoms, which are safer and more effective, helping to prevent unintended pregnancy while minimizing the impact of medication on maternal and infant health.

If contraception is needed, please try to choose an appropriate contraceptive method.