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Can You Get Pregnant While Breastfeeding? Yes—Here’s What You Need to Know

Clara Siegmund
Clara Siegmund

You may have heard that breastfeeding prevents pregnancy, but it’s not that simple: you can still get pregnant while breastfeeding. Many birth control methods are safe to use if you don’t want to conceive again, including one that may be able to turn nursing into temporary birth control.

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Jul 7, 2023
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Sep 27, 2025
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You may have heard that breastfeeding prevents pregnancy, but it’s not that simple: you can still get pregnant while breastfeeding. Many birth control methods are safe to use if you don’t want to conceive again, including one that may be able to turn nursing into temporary birth control.

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You may have heard that breastfeeding prevents pregnancy, but it’s not that simple: you can still get pregnant while breastfeeding. Many birth control methods are safe to use if you don’t want to conceive again, including one that may be able to turn nursing into temporary birth control.

Many people breastfeed their baby after giving birth (although it’s important to remember that some people can’t or don’t breastfeed, and that’s okay, too!).

You may have heard the rumor that you can’t get pregnant if you’re nursing, and you may be wondering: can you get pregnant while breastfeeding? Turns out, it’s a common misconception that you can’t. The simple answer is: you can get pregnant while breastfeeding.

However, just like when you’re not breastfeeding, there are lots of ways to prevent pregnancy, including forms of hormonal and barrier birth control. And, the role between pregnancy and breastfeeding isn’t quite so straightforward: when done in a very particular way, breastfeeding can act as temporary birth control for up to six months after giving birth.

If, on the other hand, you’re breastfeeding and want to conceive again, it’s entirely possible to continue breastfeeding and carry a pregnancy at the same time.

Here’s what this all means.

Why can you get pregnant while breastfeeding?

So, what exactly happens in your body when you’re breastfeeding? When you breastfeed a baby regularly, it can prevent ovulation. Ovulation is the phase of your menstrual cycle when your ovaries release an egg. You have to ovulate to be able to get pregnant. On the flipside, if you’re not ovulating, you can’t get pregnant.

That’s where the rumor that you can’t get pregnant while breastfeeding can come from. But just because breastfeeding can stop ovulation doesn’t mean it always does, and it’s absolutely possible to still become pregnant. It all depends on your body and your ovulation.

If you don’t want to conceive while breastfeeding, you need to use birth control—just like during any other time.

What types of birth control can you use while breastfeeding?

If you were hoping the answer to “can you get pregnant while breastfeeding?” was “no,” you still have options! If you don’t want to get pregnant while breastfeeding, there are many birth control options available to you, including the lactational amenorrhea method, certain hormonal methods, and barrier methods.

Lactational amenorrhea method (LAM)

Breastfeeding regularly can block ovulation. By doing so, breastfeeding can, in certain cases, act as a temporary form of birth control. This is known as the lactational amenorrhea method, or LAM. “Lactational” refers to breastfeeding, and “amenorrhea” refers to not having a period.

LAM is a family planning method of contraception. Like other family planning methods, you have to carefully follow a set of guidelines for LAM to be effective.

There are three criteria that must be met for LAM to prevent pregnancy:

  • You breastfeed regularly and exclusively
  • You don’t get your period
  • You’re less than six months postpartum

You breastfeed regularly and exclusively

Breastfeeding regularly means that you nurse your baby at least every four hours during the day and every six hours at night. If you nurse more infrequently than that, you’re more likely to begin ovulating again. If you’re ovulating, you can get pregnant.

Breastfeeding exclusively means that you don’t feed your baby solid food or formula. It also means that you don’t pump and you don’t bottle feed your baby, even if you’re bottle feeding with breastmilk. Your baby needs to nurse directly from your breast to prevent ovulation. This can make LAM a difficult option for people who have to return to work or spend long periods of time away from home.

It’s important to note that pumping, bottle feeding, and/or using formula are perfectly good ways of feeding your baby! These methods just make LAM less effective and, if LAM is your only form of birth control, they increase your chances of getting pregnant while breastfeeding.

You don’t get your period

For LAM to work effectively, you also can’t get your period. Getting your period means that you’re ovulating, and if you’re ovulating it means you can get pregnant. If you haven’t gotten your period or experienced spotting since within the first six weeks following your baby’s birth, LAM may be a viable method of birth control for you.

Keep in mind that you can start ovulating again before getting your period, which can complicate using LAM.

You’re less than six months postpartum

Finally, you have to be less than six months post-partum to use LAM, meaning your baby has to be less than six months old. Beyond six months, your chances of beginning to ovulate increase, regardless of whether you’re still nursing.

You also may introduce solid foods when your baby is over six months, which makes LAM less effective at preventing pregnancy, as well.

Other forms of birth control while breastfeeding

If you’re using LAM as contraception and don’t want to conceive, consider having a back-up form of birth control ready for as soon as your period begins again, you introduce formula or solid foods into your baby’s diet, or your baby reaches six months—whichever comes first.

Aside from LAM, there are lots of other forms of birth control that are safe to use while breastfeeding. Options include:

  • Barrier methods like condoms or diaphragms
  • Certain hormonal methods like the shot, the implant, Skyla and Mirena intrauterine devices (IUDs), and mini-pills (progestin-only pills)

You can start using these birth control methods right after your baby is born. It’s a good idea, however, to talk to your doctor about what your body can handle, and when.

Avoid birth control methods with estrogen—including the pill, the patch, or the ring—for three weeks after giving birth.

What are the chances of getting pregnant while breastfeeding?

While the answer to “can you get pregnant while breastfeeding?” is a simple “yes,” what are the actual chances of conceiving? When used perfectly in accordance with these guidelines, research suggests that lactational amenorrhea method has a 98% success rate. In reality, however, this number is likely lower among breastfeeding people who actually use LAM, given its strictness.

Keep in mind that LAM is only a temporary form of birth control, and can’t be used after your baby is six months old. Additionally, LAM is no longer effective if you’re ovulating. If your menstrual cycle is irregular, it can be difficult to know when you’ve started ovulating again, and many people experience irregular cycles postpartum. This can complicate using LAM as birth control, and underlines the importance of having a back-up method.

What if you want to get pregnant while breastfeeding?

It’s of course entirely possible to get pregnant while breastfeeding.

The chances that you’ll conceive increase with time. Remember, even when correctly using LAM as a form of birth control, it only works for six months post-birth. If you don’t have a history of infertility, you’ll likely start ovulating and be able to conceive again sometime after this six-month mark.

In order to be able to get pregnant, you need to be ovulating. To help restart ovulation, you can try incorporating things that make LAM less effective, like:

  • Reducing the regularity of your skin-to-skin breastfeeding sessions
  • Pumping and bottle feeding more frequently
  • Introducing solid foods (when it’s safe to do so)

>>MORE: Signs of Ovulation After Giving Birth

Experts recommend waiting at least six months between pregnancies, and caution against getting pregnant fewer than eighteen months after your previous delivery. Consider talking with your doctor before trying to conceive again to make sure it’s safe.

It’s also possible to continue to breastfeed while you’re pregnant. If this is the case for you, you may want to consult with your primary healthcare provider and your obstetrician (OB) to make sure you, your baby, and your pregnancy are all getting the nutrients you need and staying healthy.

Takeaway

Can you get pregnant while breastfeeding? Yes, it’s entirely possible to conceive during this time. Arming yourself with this knowledge can help you take the necessary steps to prevent pregnancy or achieve it when it’s safe to conceive again.

If you want to avoid getting pregnant while breastfeeding, there are options available to you. By carefully following LAM to a tee, you may be able to use breastfeeding to help prevent ovulation, which turns nursing into a form of temporary birth control. There are also other methods of birth control that are safe to use while breastfeeding, including several hormonal options.

If you are trying to conceive again, you don’t have to stop breastfeeding—you can carry a pregnancy and continue nursing at the same time. Consider consulting with your doctor beforehand to make sure getting pregnant again is safe for you.

About the author

Clara Siegmund
Clara Siegmund is a writer, editor, and translator (French to English) from Brooklyn, New York. She has a BA in English and French Studies from Wesleyan University and an MA in Translation from the Sorbonne. She is passionate about literature, reproductive justice, and using language to make information accessible.‍

Sources

‍

https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Can I take progesterone if I'm breastfeeding?
Yes, progesterone is generally safe while breastfeeding and doesn't significantly affect milk supply. However, always discuss with your healthcare provider before starting any hormone supplementation while nursing.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Is it safe to take progesterone throughout pregnancy?
Yes, when prescribed by your healthcare provider. Progesterone supplementation in early pregnancy is safe and can reduce miscarriage risk in women with low progesterone or a history of pregnancy loss. Most providers continue supplementation through the first trimester (weeks 10-12) when the placenta takes over.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Can progesterone supplementation cause weight gain?
Progesterone can cause temporary water retention and bloating, which may show up as a few pounds on the scale, but it doesn't cause true fat weight gain. Most women don't experience significant weight changes from progesterone supplementation.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Can I switch from pills to suppositories or vice versa?
Yes, but only under your doctor's guidance. The dosing and timing may need adjustment when switching between forms since they're absorbed differently. Never switch on your own, especially if you're pregnant or undergoing fertility treatment.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Will progesterone supplementation delay my period?
Yes, progesterone keeps the uterine lining intact, so if you're not pregnant and continue taking progesterone, your period will be delayed. Once you stop taking it, your period should start within 2-10 days. If you are pregnant, progesterone helps maintain the pregnancy and you won't get a period.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
Should I take progesterone pills orally or vaginally?
For fertility and pregnancy support, vaginal progesterone is usually preferred because it delivers higher concentrations directly to the uterus. For perimenopause or general hormone balance, oral progesterone often works well and is more convenient. Your doctor will recommend the best route based on your specific needs.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
When should I start taking progesterone after ovulation?
Typically, progesterone supplementation for luteal phase support starts 2-3 days after ovulation (confirmed by LH surge or temperature rise). Your doctor will give you specific timing based on your protocol. Some women start immediately after a positive ovulation test.
https://www.oova.life/blog/progesterone-supplementation-guide
What's better: progesterone cream or pills?
Pills (oral micronized progesterone) are generally more effective and reliable than creams because absorption from creams is inconsistent. For medical conditions like fertility issues, low progesterone, or HRT, prescription pills or suppositories are strongly recommended over over-the-counter creams.
https://www.oova.life/blog/low-vs-high-progesterone-symptoms
How can I tell if I have low or high progesterone?
The only definitive way to know is through hormone testing via blood tests or at-home urine tests that measure progesterone metabolites. However, symptom patterns can provide clues: anxiety and irregular periods suggest low progesterone, while bloating and extreme fatigue suggest high progesterone.
https://www.oova.life/blog/low-vs-high-progesterone-symptoms
When during my cycle should I test progesterone levels?
Test progesterone levels during the luteal phase, typically 7 days after ovulation or around day 21 of a 28-day cycle. This is when progesterone should be at its peak, making it easier to identify if levels are too low or too high.
https://www.oova.life/blog/low-vs-high-progesterone-symptoms
What are the main differences between low and high progesterone symptoms?
Low progesterone typically causes irregular or heavy periods, anxiety, hot flashes, and sleep issues. High progesterone causes bloating, fatigue, intense breast tenderness, and depression-like mood changes. Low progesterone symptoms persist throughout your cycle, while high progesterone symptoms are most intense during the luteal phase.
https://www.oova.life/blog/low-vs-high-progesterone-symptoms
Can you have symptoms of both low and high progesterone?
Some symptoms like breast tenderness and mood changes can occur with both low and high progesterone, making it confusing. However, the timing, intensity, and accompanying symptoms differ. Hormone testing is the best way to determine which imbalance you're experiencing.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Can stress affect 10 DPO symptoms?
Yes, stress can worsen or mimic 10 DPO symptoms. Stress increases cortisol, which can cause cramping, fatigue, and mood changes similar to both PMS and early pregnancy. During the two-week wait, try stress-reduction techniques like gentle exercise, meditation, or spending time with loved ones.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Is it better to test at 10 DPO or wait?
It's better to wait until 12–14 DPO for more accurate results. Testing at 10 DPO often leads to false negatives because hCG levels may still be too low. If you absolutely can't wait, use a sensitive early detection test with first morning urine, and be prepared to retest in 2–3 days if negative.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
What does implantation bleeding look like at 10 DPO?
Implantation bleeding at 10 DPO is typically light pink or brown, much lighter than a period, and lasts 1–2 days. It's often just spotting when you wipe or a few drops on a panty liner. However, only 15–20% of pregnant women experience implantation bleeding—most don't have any bleeding at all.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Why am I cramping at 10 DPO?
Cramping at 10 DPO can be caused by elevated progesterone (whether you're pregnant or not), implantation (if you're pregnant), or premenstrual cramping. Unfortunately, cramping alone can't tell you if you're pregnant since progesterone causes similar symptoms in both scenarios.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
What are the chances of a BFP at 10 DPO?
If you're pregnant, you have about a 50–60% chance of getting a positive test at 10 DPO. This means there's a 40–50% chance of a false negative even if you conceived. Chances improve significantly by 12–14 DPO.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
What DPO is most accurate for pregnancy testing?
14 DPO (the day of your missed period) is the most accurate time to test, with 99% accuracy. 12 DPO offers 80–90% accuracy. 10 DPO has only 50–60% accuracy. For best results, wait as long as you can—ideally until 12–14 DPO.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Is 10 DPO too early to test?
10 DPO is considered early for pregnancy testing. While some women get positives at 10 DPO, accuracy is only 50–60% if you're pregnant. For best results, wait until 12 DPO (80–90% accuracy) or 14 DPO/missed period (99% accuracy).
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Can you have implantation at 10 DPO?
Yes, implantation can still occur at 10 DPO, though 84% of women have already implanted by this point. Late implantation at 10–12 DPO is normal. If implantation happens at 10 DPO, you won't get a positive pregnancy test for another 2–3 days.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
What does a negative test at 10 DPO mean?
A negative test at 10 DPO does not mean you're not pregnant. It's very common to get negatives at 10 DPO even if you conceived. Your hCG levels may still be too low, or implantation may have occurred later. Wait until 12–14 DPO to retest for more accurate results.
https://www.oova.life/blog/10-dpo
Can you get a positive pregnancy test at 10 DPO?
Yes, but only about 50–60% of pregnant women will get a positive at 10 DPO. The other 40–50% have hCG levels that are still too low to detect. If you test negative at 10 DPO, wait 2–3 days and test again.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
Can high progesterone cause weight gain?
Yes, elevated progesterone can cause temporary weight gain through water retention and bloating. This is a normal part of the luteal phase and early pregnancy.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
Does stress affect estrogen levels?
Yes, chronic stress elevates cortisol, which can suppress estrogen production and disrupt hormonal balance. Stress reduction through meditation, yoga, adequate sleep, and self-care practices helps maintain optimal estrogen levels.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
When should I consider medical treatment for low estrogen?
Consider medical intervention if natural methods don't improve symptoms after 3 months, if symptoms severely impact quality of life, if you're experiencing early menopause (before 40), or if you have fertility concerns. Hormone replacement therapy may be appropriate in these cases.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
What are the signs that my estrogen is increasing?
Signs of rising estrogen include more regular menstrual cycles, reduced hot flashes, improved vaginal lubrication, better mood stability, increased energy, and improved skin elasticity. You may also notice reduced symptoms that originally indicated low estrogen.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
Can exercise increase estrogen levels?
Yes, moderate exercise stimulates estrogen release and helps maintain hormonal balance. Aim for 150 minutes of moderate cardio weekly plus strength training twice per week. However, excessive exercise can actually lower estrogen, so balance is key.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
How long does it take to increase estrogen naturally?
With consistent dietary and lifestyle changes, you may notice improvements in symptoms within 4-8 weeks. However, significant hormonal changes typically take 2-3 months. Tracking your cycle and symptoms can help you monitor progress.
https://www.oova.life/blog/how-to-increase-estrogen
What foods increase estrogen levels naturally?
Foods high in phytoestrogens can help increase estrogen naturally. The best options include flax seeds (high in lignans), soy products (tofu, tempeh, edamame), lentils, chickpeas, whole grains (oats, quinoa, brown rice), and garlic. These plant compounds mimic estrogen's effects in the body.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
What helps relieve hot flashes quickly?
Cool environments, layered clothing, herbal teas, and medical treatments like gabapentin or HRT may help—depending on severity. Lifestyle changes like reducing caffeine and alcohol can also provide relief.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
Are there tests to confirm perimenopause?
Yes. Tests measuring estradiol, LH, and FSH levels can indicate hormonal shifts—but diagnosis is often symptom-based since hormone levels fluctuate widely during perimenopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
How do I know it's perimenopause and not something else?
A doctor may recommend hormone testing (like LH, E3G, and PdG) and track symptom timing. Diagnosis is often based on symptoms combined with age and menstrual pattern changes.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
What's the earliest age perimenopause can start?
Some women begin experiencing symptoms as early as their mid-30s, though perimenopause typically starts between ages 38-45.
https://www.oova.life/blog/perimenopause
Does perimenopause affect mental clarity?
Yes. Brain fog and difficulty concentrating are common during hormone fluctuations in perimenopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
What happens after the last sign of perimenopause?
After your final period, you enter postmenopause. You'll need 12 consecutive months without a period to confirm menopause. Many symptoms gradually improve, though some like vaginal dryness may persist without treatment.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
When do perimenopause symptoms finally stop?
Some symptoms like brain fog improve after menopause, while others like hot flashes may continue for up to 10 years post-menopause. Vaginal symptoms often persist or worsen without treatment. Each person's timeline is different.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
Is high progesterone a sign of pregnancy?
Yes, high progesterone is one of the earliest indicators of pregnancy. Progesterone levels rise significantly after conception to support the developing embryo and reach their peak during the third trimester.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
Can you still get pregnant in late perimenopause?
Yes, you can still get pregnant during perimenopause as long as you're having periods, even if they're infrequent. Continue using birth control until you've gone 12 consecutive months without a period and have officially reached menopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
Do symptoms get worse before perimenopause ends?
Yes, most perimenopause symptoms intensify in the final 1-2 years before menopause. Hot flashes peak around your final period, vaginal symptoms worsen, and mood changes increase. However, brain fog typically improves in late perimenopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
How long does late perimenopause last?
Late perimenopause typically lasts 1-3 years before your final period. However, the exact duration varies significantly from person to person. You've reached menopause after 12 consecutive months without a period.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
What are the symptoms of high progesterone?
High progesterone symptoms include fatigue, bloating, breast tenderness, weight gain, anxiety, depression, headaches, and food cravings. During pregnancy, you may also experience increased nipple sensitivity and muscle aches.
https://www.oova.life/blog/TBD-10-symptoms-and-how-to-get-relief
What are the first signs that perimenopause is ending?
The earliest signs include longer gaps between periods (60+ days), intensifying hot flashes that peak around your final period, and worsening vaginal dryness. These symptoms typically increase in late perimenopause before you reach official menopause.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
When should I be concerned about high progesterone?
Consult a healthcare provider if you experience high progesterone symptoms outside your luteal phase when not pregnant, or if symptoms include severe pelvic pain, abnormal vaginal bleeding, or rapid weight gain while on hormone therapy.
https://www.oova.life/blog/high-progesterone-symptoms
How do you test progesterone levels?
Progesterone can be measured through blood tests at your doctor's office or at-home urine tests that measure PdG (a progesterone metabolite). Testing is typically done during the luteal phase, about 7 days after ovulation.

About the Oova Blog:
‍Our content is developed with a commitment to high editorial standards and reliability. We prioritize referencing reputable sources and sharing where our insights come from. The Oova Blog is intended for informational purposes only and is never a substitute for professional medical advice. Always consult a healthcare provider before making any health decisions.

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