Breastfeeding Birth Control
vs
Fertility Awareness
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 ControlA natural postpartum method (lactational amenorrhea method, LAM) that relies on exclusive breastfeeding to suppress ovulation, effective for up to 6 months. |  Fertility AwarenessTracking body signs like temperature and cervical mucus to identify fertile days and avoid unprotected sex then. |
|---|---|---|
| Efficacy | 98% typical use Moderately effective: over 90 out of 100 people successfully prevent pregnancy per year. | Least effective see details Least effective: under 90 out of 100 people successfully prevent pregnancy per year. |
| Cost | $0–$300 Insurance: Varies | $0–$100 /monthly Insurance: Varies |
| Duration | Up to 6 months postpartum | Ongoing daily tracking |
| Reversibility | Reversible | Reversible |
| STI Protection | No | No |
| 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. | Track basal body temperature, cervical mucus, and cycle length to identify the fertile window. Avoid unprotected sex or use backup contraception on fertile days. |
| Prescription | OTC No prescription / OTC | OTC No prescription / OTC |
| Available Products | No branded products yet | 4 products |
| Who shouldn't use this |
|
|