A lactating mother at 5 months postpartum is counseled about Lactational Amenorrhea Method (LAM) contraception. Her menstrual periods have returned. What is the correct advice?

• A LAM remains fully protective as long as she is exclusively breastfeeding and the infant is under 6 months
• B LAM protection ends once menstruation resumes, and additional contraception is required ✓
• C LAM protection depends only on the frequency of night feeds, not on bleeding patterns
• D LAM may be continued until 12 months postpartum regardless of menstruation

Explanation

LAM is effective only when all three conditions hold: the mother is amenorrheic, the infant is under 6 months old, and feeding is exclusive with frequent feeds day and night. Return of menses means ovulation has resumed, so the method fails and supplemental contraception becomes necessary. Options A and C each drop one required criterion, which is exactly the kind of partial knowledge the item tests.

Reference: DC Dutta's Textbook of Obstetrics, 9th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.