Breastfeeding Birth Control
vs
Vasectomy

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.
Vasectomy

Vasectomy

A permanent outpatient procedure that blocks the vas deferens so sperm cannot enter the semen.
Efficacy98% typical use

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

99.85% typical use

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

Cost$0–$300

Insurance: Varies

$0–$3,500

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.

A clinician cuts, seals, or blocks the vas deferens so sperm cannot mix with semen during ejaculation. The body absorbs the sperm, and the semen remains normal in appearance and volume.

PrescriptionOTC No prescription / OTCOTC Procedure (in-person)
Available ProductsNo branded products yetNo branded products yet
Side effectsNone reported
  • Mild pain or swelling for a few days
  • Bruising or bleeding at the site
  • Sperm granuloma (small lump, usually harmless)
  • Chronic post-vasectomy pain syndrome (rare, 1-2%)
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
  • Uncertainty about future fertility desires
  • Active local or systemic infection
  • Bleeding disorder