Breastfeeding Birth Control
vs
Female Sterilization

A side-by-side comparison of two birth control methods — efficacy, cost, how they work, and who shouldn't use them.

Side-by-side comparison

Method
Breastfeeding Birth Control

Breastfeeding Birth Control

A natural postpartum method (lactational amenorrhea method, LAM) that relies on exclusive breastfeeding to suppress ovulation, effective for up to 6 months.
Female Sterilization

Female Sterilization

A permanent surgical procedure that blocks or removes the fallopian tubes to prevent pregnancy.
Efficacy98% typical use

Moderately effective: over 90 out of 100 people successfully prevent pregnancy per year.

99.5% typical use

Most effective: over 99 out of 100 people successfully prevent pregnancy per year.

Cost$0–$300

Insurance: Varies

$0–$6,000

Insurance: Usually

DurationUp to 6 months postpartumPermanent
ReversibilityReversiblePermanent
STI ProtectionNoNo
How it works

Exclusive breastfeeding suppresses the hormones that trigger ovulation. High prolactin from frequent nursing keeps estrogen and progesterone low, preventing the return of menstrual cycles.

Surgical disruption (clipping, banding, cauterization, or complete removal) of the fallopian tubes prevents eggs from reaching the uterus and sperm from reaching the egg.

PrescriptionOTC No prescription / OTCRequired Prescription required
Available ProductsNo branded products yet2 products
Side effectsNone reported
  • Surgical risks (bleeding, infection, organ damage)
  • Anesthesia side effects
  • Ectopic pregnancy (small but serious risk if failure occurs)
Who shouldn't use this
  • Baby over 6 months old
  • Periods have returned
  • Not exclusively or nearly exclusively breastfeeding
  • Use of supplemental formula or solid foods
  • Medical instability for general anesthesia or laparoscopy
  • Uncertainty about future fertility desires