Expert: Bob Kambic - 3/12/2007

Question
I've been breastfeeding for nearly 14 months (hadn't planned on breastfeeding that long, but the pediatrician recommends it for various reasons that i agree with) but i suffer from severe midcycle ovulation pain and again when my period arrives. Prior to my pregnancy i was on Tricyclen which seemed to elevate that problem and my recurring acne problem dissappeared. My ob/gyn gave me a prescription for Tricyclen-lo but to use once i'm done breastfeeding but she didnt' tell me why? Is it just a supply issue or does it pass thru the breastmilk. I'd like to go back on it but not at the cost of discontinuing breastfeeding if at all possible but my doctor never gave me a reason. Any info you could provide would be helpful.

Mary Jane

Answer
From American Society of Health System Pharmacists,"Small amounts of the hormonal agents in estrogen-progestin contraceptives are distributed into milk and adverse effects such as juandice and breast enlargement have been reported in nursing infants of women receiving cyclic regimens ... When possible, the use of cyclic estrogen-progestin contraceptives should be deferred until the infant has been weaned."

On a personal note, breastfeeding is healthy and satisfying for the mother and infant. More women should follow your example and breastfeed. You may also want to look at this site http://www.lalecheleague.org/