Question

Which one of the following hormonal contraceptives CANNOT be used during lactation?

• A. Mini-pill
• B. Norplant
• C. DMPA
• D. Combined oral contraceptives

Hint:

Estrogen reduces milk supply; progestin-only methods do not.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
Breastfeeding mothers need a contraceptive that will not cut down their milk supply.

Step 2: Key Formula or Approach:
Split the options by hormone type: progestin-only methods spare the milk supply, while any method with estrogen reduces it.

Step 3: Detailed Explanation:
The mini-pill, Norplant, and DMPA all deliver progestin alone, and none of them cuts down milk volume, so a nursing mother can use any of these three safely.
Combined oral contraceptives, on the other hand, add estrogen to the mix, and estrogen is known to suppress milk production, making this method unsuitable for a breastfeeding mother.

Step 4: Final Answer:
Combined oral contraceptives are the answer, option (D).