The failure rate of the Lactational Amenorrhoea Method (LAM) is less than 2 per 100 woman-years when all three criteria are met. Which combination of criteria confers this level of protection?

• A Full breastfeeding + amenorrhoea + infant age <9 months
• B Breastfeeding of any frequency + amenorrhoea + postpartum period <12 months
• C Exclusive breastfeeding + amenorrhoea + mother aged <30 years
• D Full/nearly full breastfeeding + amenorrhoea + infant age <6 months ✓

Explanation

LAM criteria (Bellagio Consensus) are: (1) exclusive or nearly exclusive breastfeeding on demand day and night with no supplements, (2) amenorrhoea (no menstrual period since delivery), and (3) infant younger than 6 months. When all three criteria are simultaneously satisfied, the typical-use failure rate is <2 per 100 woman-years, equivalent to combined OCP efficacy. Once any criterion is no longer met — supplemental feeds begin, menstruation returns, or infant reaches 6 months — the woman is advised to start an additional contraceptive method.

Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

Written and medically reviewed by the StethoPrep medical team.