Lactational Amenorrhea Method (LAM)

You can breastfeed or chestfeed as a form of birth control until the baby is six months old. This is called the Lactational Amenorrhea Method or LAM (pronounced "lahm").

If LAM is done correctly, 2 out of 100 people will get pregnant. After the baby is six months old, the chance of pregnancy goes up.

You can also use a birth control method at the time of sex. We call this a Method Boost because it prevents pregnancy better than LAM alone. Method Boost options include outer condom (penile), inner condom (vaginal), pull out, spermicides, the vaginal gel (Phexxi), the cervical cap and the diaphragm.

When you breastfeed or chestfeed, the brain makes a hormone called prolactin. High levels of prolactin stop an egg from being released (ovulate).

LAM only works if you only feed your baby milk from your breast/chest and your baby is less than 6 months old. For LAM to work well, the baby should not be fed with a bottle.

Even if you are feeding the baby as instructed above, LAM will not work once you get your natural period back.

While using LAM as birth control, you will not have a period. If you get your natural period back, LAM is no longer effective.

LAM is a natural form of birth control. LAM can help you bond with your baby. Your natural milk helps your baby's growth and immune system.

LAM can help you lose weight that was gained during pregnancy.

Being a new parent is not easy. LAM can add another challenge such as less sleep and sore breasts/chest. Others may not make enough milk. If you need help, please reach out to your health care provider or local lactation expert.

LAM is very safe. There is a small risk of infection of the breast/chest.

No. However, correct use of condoms can prevent HIV and STIs.

In general, LAM is cheaper than buying formula. There are costs that come from supplies, like a pump and milk bags.