Lactational Amenorrhea Method (LAM) and Fertility Awareness Methods (FAM) are popular natural family planning techniques used for birth control. While these methods can be effective when used correctly, there are potential risks associated with relying solely on LAM for birth control.
What is Lactational Amenorrhea Method (LAM)?
LAM is a natural method of birth control that relies on the infertility resulting from breastfeeding. When used correctly, LAM can be an effective form of contraception during the first six months after childbirth, as long as certain criteria are met.
Understanding the Potential Risks of Relying Solely on LAM for Birth Control
While LAM can be an effective method of birth control for some women, there are potential risks and limitations to consider:
- Effectiveness: LAM is most effective when specific breastfeeding criteria are met, including exclusive breastfeeding, frequent breastfeeding day and night, and no return of menstrual periods. Failure to meet these criteria can significantly reduce the effectiveness of LAM as a birth control method.
- Duration: The effectiveness of LAM is limited to the first six months postpartum. After this time, the risk of pregnancy increases, and additional contraceptive methods may be necessary to prevent unintended pregnancy.
- Delayed Return of Fertility: It is important to understand that the return of fertility can vary for each woman. Some women may experience a return of fertility before the six-month mark, making it essential to consider alternative birth control methods to prevent unwanted pregnancy.
- Unpredictability: LAM is reliant on the absence of menstrual periods, which can be unpredictable in some women. Without a reliable indicator of fertility, the risk of unintended pregnancy increases.
Compatibility with Fertility Awareness Methods (FAM)
Fertility Awareness Methods (FAM) involve tracking various signs of fertility to identify fertile and infertile days in a woman’s menstrual cycle. While FAM and LAM share similarities in natural family planning, FAM provides additional methods such as temperature charting, cervical mucus monitoring, and calendar tracking to identify fertile and infertile days.
When used in combination, LAM and FAM can provide a more comprehensive approach to natural birth control. FAM can be particularly useful as a follow-up method to LAM, especially as the effectiveness of LAM decreases after the first six months postpartum.
Considerations and Alternatives
When considering LAM or FAM as a method of birth control, it is important to consult with a healthcare provider to understand the potential risks and effectiveness. Additionally, exploring alternative contraceptive methods such as barrier methods, hormonal contraceptives, intrauterine devices (IUDs), and sterilization can provide more reliable and consistent options for preventing unintended pregnancy.
Conclusion
While LAM and FAM can be effective natural birth control methods, it is crucial to understand the potential risks associated with relying solely on LAM for birth control. By considering the limitations of LAM and exploring complementary methods such as FAM and other contraceptives, individuals can make informed decisions about their reproductive health and family planning.