There are a few medical conditions that may disqualify you from using LAM as a contraceptive. Having these conditions means that you will be advised to either stop breastfeeding or breastfeed in a manner that may limit the effectiveness of LAM.
LAM is completely discouraged if
– the infant has a metabolic disorder that may affect its regular feeding patterns. Children suffering from galactosemia will usually have their breast milk replaced with food that can aid their treatment (6).
– you are using any mood-altering drugs that may affect breastfeeding.
– you are using any medication that is not compatible with breastfeeding, for example, anticoagulants.
Based on clinical assessment, LAM may be recommended with caution if
– you have AIDS or have been confirmed HIV positive. HIV can be transmitted from mother to baby. Based on the severity, if you are HIV positive, you will be advised on the associated risk of breastfeeding and whether it might be necessary to opt for alternative sources of nutrients for your infant. If you are HIV positive and on antiretroviral treatment (ART), you may use LAM.
– you have active tuberculosis (TB). While TB cannot be transmitted through breastfeeding, the intimate contact between a mother and infant during breastfeeding exposes the child to a high risk of getting infected.
