Breastfeeding can be a form of contraception in itself. 

This is usually called the lactational amenorrhea method (LAM). 

This method is only effective if a woman breastfeeds exclusively or almost exclusively and continues to be amenorrheic (without a monthly menstrual period).

Breastfeeding prevents pregnancy by inhibiting ovulation and in cases where ovulation and fertilization do occur, by inhibiting implantation of a fertilized egg. 

It is most effective during the first six months (98-99%). 

Breastfeeding has many health benefits for both the mother and the child and many women find it pleasurable. It is often less expensive and time-consuming than preparing bottles and feedings. 

Breastfeeding can have various effects on sexual pleasure. It can reduce the fear of pregnancy, increasing pleasure. 

Increased breast size may be arousing and breast sensations during breastfeeding may be erotic. 

However, low levels of oestrogen can diminish vaginal lubrication and sometimes result in loss of desire. 

Sexual activity during breastfeeding is also taboo in some cultures. 

The main disadvantage of breastfeeding as a method of contraception is that the return to menses and fertility is unpredictable. 

It is also not advised for women with blood borne infections that could be passed to the newborn (such as HIV) and women on drugs that can adversely affect their babies.

Even if a woman is breastfeeding, she should consider other contraceptive options, either as a back-up method to breastfeeding after giving birth or as a replacement method as breastfeeding loses its effectiveness as a contraceptive. 

Many contraceptive methods are suitable to postpartum women: 

• A return to abstinence is a safe and effective option to avoid another pregnancy after giving birth.
• Fertility awareness methods are not generally recommended during breastfeeding because signs and symptoms used to predict fertility are highly variable during this period. 
• Condoms (both male and female) can be used immediately.  
• Diaphragms can be used four to six weeks after giving birth (though they may need refitting). 
• Progestogen-only methods (including pills, injections and implants) can be used immediately after delivery if the mother chooses not to breastfeed. They can also be used by lactating women, but it is recommended to wait six weeks postpartum. 
• Combined hormonal methods (including combined pills, injections, patches and vaginal rings) can be used in low doses by women who are not breastfeeding three weeks postpartum. Women who are breastfeeding should not use them until six months after delivery or until the infant is weaned (whichever is earlier). 
• IUDs and IUSs may be inserted within first 20 minutes after delivery. If not inserted immediately, it is recommended to wait four to six weeks after giving birth. 
• Tubal (female) sterilisation can be done in the first week postpartum, but the optimal time for the procedure is within 48 hours of delivery. After the seventh day postpartum, the procedure should be postponed until four to six weeks postpartum. 

(Male sterilisation can be done at any time.)

• Emergency contraception can be used by postpartum women, including women who are breastfeeding.