LAM; Lactational Amenorrhea Method
This method of birth control can be used by mothers who have just given birth. It is only effective for the first six months after the infant is born.
It is an old wives’ tale that women cannot get pregnant when they are breastfeeding. However, if a woman breastfeeds continuously, she can decrease her chances of getting pregnant. This method is 98% effective.
Who can use LAM
- women who are about to, or who have recently given birth
- women who have not had a period since the birth of their child
- women who have the time and energy to suckle their babies frequently
How to use LAM
This method relies on the fact that the infant needs to be suckled at least six times a day, on both breasts. The infant needs to be suckled when they are hungry, and at least every four hours a day during the day.
Mothers using LAM cannot let their babies sleep through the night; for this method to be effective the baby needs to be breastfeed at least every six hours at night.
This method means that the baby is fed only breast milk. After six months, even if the baby is still suckling frequently, this method becomes ineffective, and you must find another method of birth control.
LAM works by altering the hormones in a woman’s body to prevent ovulation.
LAM does not provide protection from sexually transmitted diseases or infections.
