9. Breastfeeding

a) When totally breastfeeding, the first 56 days after the baby's birth are infertile.

Total (exclusive, full) breastfeeding is defined as:

• ALL of the infant’s nutritional sustenance (except for the occasional sips of water) is received from the breast
• ALL suckling needs are received from the breast – no soothers/pacifiers are used
• Feedings are no greater than 6 hours apart.

The earliest ovulation recorded in a total breastfeeding situation has been at 73 days after the baby's birth (10 weeks); and thus considering the first 56 days (8 weeks) infertile allows for deviations from that record. Total breastfeeding is defined as: the baby's only gratification is received from the mother's breast, with the occasional sip of water.

 b) When partial breastfeeding, start to observe for mucus once the lochia (post partum bleeding has ended or at 3 weeks postpartum whichever is sooner.

Partial Breastfeeding is defined as:

• The baby takes in food or formula other than the mother’s milk
• The baby uses a pacifier/soother
• The weaning process has begun

Breastfeeding has a suppressive effect on the return of fertility postpartum. However, the less time a baby spends at the breast, the less nourishment they receive from the breast, and the less time they are in physical contact with the mother the more reduced is the suppressive effect of breastfeeding on fertility. Every woman’s body is more or less sensitive to the suppressive effects of breastfeeding on fertility.