mini pill vs combination pill

paramedicmommy

Just a quick question for you ladies. I breastfeed my son and was wondering why doctors put breastfeeding moms on the mini pill vs the combination hormone pill. I know that the estrogen can reduce your supply, but is that the only reason? Are there other reasons why they prescribe the mini pill? TIA!

hannibal+ed

Nope, to my understanding that is the only reason.

paramedicmommy

Do you think I could build that supply back up? I ask because I'm terrified of the mini pill and accidentally getting pregnant. (Want more just not quite yet, KWIM) I looked into an IUD but my insurance files that under a surgical procedure and it costs more than we can afford right now.

hannibal+ed

I wouldn't risk it.  The mini pill is within 2% of the combination pill for pregnancy protection, much higher than some of the alternatives.  If I could have taken it, I would have.  I've met more people who've gotten pregnant with IUD's than with the mini pill.

carrotcake06

The way my dr explained it to me was that the mini pill must be taken at the same time every day w only an hr leeway.  The combo pill gives you about a 12 hour window. 

He also said that the mini pill is only about 70% effective, but that most of the 30% is user error (not taking within the hour).

So, if you're vigilant about it & use back-up when you forget, I don't see it as any less effective.  My dr rec'd an IUD simply because I wouldn't have to think about it every day & w a new baby there were def some days I didn't know my ass from my elbow, if you know what i mean.

adriennevla

Are you on a pill containing estrogen right now? If you are, you're probably going to have supply problems until you're no longer on it, at the very least. It really will all but dry you up.