Levonorgestrel Tablet while Breastfeeding

What is Levonorgestrel Tablet used for?

Is Levonorgestrel Tablet usage safe while breastfeeding? If a lactating mother is using it can there be any effect on growth or development of infant?

Levonorgestrel while Breastfeeding

CAS Number: 797-63-7

Progestin containing contraceptive drug that is used as a single dose for oral, subcutaneous implant, intrauterine device (IUD), or emergency contraception administration.Also marketed in association with ethinylestradiol Levonorgestrel is a progestin, and active metabolite isomer of norgestrel, both derived from nortestosterone. It is excreted in breast milk in clinically non-significant amount, and, no problems have been observed in infants whose mothers were treated. The plasma levels of these infants were very low. Levonorgestrel and progestogens are generally considered contraceptive drugs of choice during lactation since they neither alter the quantity and composition of milk nor cause side effects on both growth of infants and the duration of breastfeeding.Published study results have shown protection against breast bone mass loss with the use of progestin-only contraceptives. For the first 6 weeks postpartum, non-hormonal methods are of choise. There is a debate on the role of progestin-related drugs in decreasing milk production when used before lactation has been fully established. The American Academy of Pediatrics states that this medication is usually compatible with breastfeeding.WHO List of Essential Medicines 2002: rates it as compatible with breastfeeding after the 6th postnatal week.

Levonorgestrel while Breastfeeding

CAS Number: 797-63-7

This record contains information specific to oral levonorgestrel used alone. 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][2][3][4] Some evidence indicates that progestin-only contraceptives may offer protection against bone mineral density loss during lactation, or at least do not exacerbate it.[5][6][7] After use of levonorgestrel as a postcoital contraceptive, nursing can resume 3 to 4 hours after the dose (or after each dose if the two-dose method is used). Postcoital levonorgestrel appears to have no long-term adverse effects on breastfeeding or the infant.[8][9][10][11]

I am nursing mother and I have already used Levonorgestrel Tablet, what should I do?

I am nursing mother and my doctor has suggested me to use Levonorgestrel Tablet, is it safe?

If I am using Levonorgestrel Tablet, will my baby need extra monitoring?

Who can I talk to if I have questions about usage of Levonorgestrel Tablet in breastfeeding?