This record contains information specific to oral levonorgestrel used alone for contraception. Those with an interest in a combination oral contraceptive should consult the record entitled, Contraceptives, Oral, Combined.
Although nonhormonal methods are preferred during breastfeeding, progestin-only contraceptives such as levonorgestrel are considered the hormonal contraceptives of choice during lactation. Fair quality evidence indicates that levonorgestrel does not adversely affect the composition of milk, the growth and development of the infant or the milk supply. Expert opinion holds that the risks of progestin-only contraceptive products usually are acceptable for nursing mothers at any time postpartum.[1-3] Some evidence indicates that progestin-only contraceptives may offer protection against bone mineral density loss during lactation, or at least do not exacerbate it.[4-6] A large percentage of women who planned to breastfeed discontinued oral progestin-only contraceptives by 3 months postpartum[7] and progestin-only contraceptives often result in rapid repeat pregnancy.[8] Postcoital levonorgestrel appears to have no long-term adverse effects on breastfeeding or the infant.[9-12]