Mestranol + Chlormadinone

Birth control pill that contains the combination of an estrogen (Mestranol) and a progestin (Cholrmadinone) for oral use.

MESTRANOL:

• A latest up date no published data on excretion in breast milk, found were found. However, it is known that its metabolite Ethinylestradiol is excreted into milk in no or small amount.
• There is evidence (albeit inconsistent) that estrogen-containing pills may decrease milk production, especially during the first few weeks postpartum with a daily dose above 30 micrograms of ethinyl estradiol. It may reduce the protein content of the milk.
• No problems have been observed in infants whose mothers were treated, except one isolated case of transient gynecomastia. ^{(Curtis 1964)}

CHLORMADINONE is a synthetic progestin that is similar to progesterone.

At the date of the last update we did not find any published data on its excretion in breast milk.

No changes in prolactin levels or alterations in milk production or composition have been observed in women treated with chlormadinone, except for a slight decrease in the amount of proteins.

Detailed information on chlormadinone, including references, can be found below under “Chlormadinone”

American Academy of Paediatrics: COCs are usually compatible with breastfeeding. ^{(AAP 2001)}

For a detailed discussion with references:

• on why non-hormonal methods are the first choice during the first 4–6 weeks postpartum, followed by IUDs and progestin implants,
• on the potential problems associated with the use of combined estrogen-progestin contraceptives,
• the possible decrease in milk production with estrogen use,
• and why progestin-only contraceptives are preferable during breastfeeding,

see below: “(Combined Estrogen + Progestin Contraceptives, COCs)”

See below the information of these related products:

• (Combined oestrogen-progestogen contraceptives, COCs) (Fairly safe. Mild or unlikely adverse effects. Compatible under certain circumstances. Follow-up recommended. Read Commentary.)
• Chlormadinone Acetate (Fairly safe. Mild or unlikely adverse effects. Compatible under certain circumstances. Follow-up recommended. Read Commentary.)
• Ethinylestradiol (Fairly safe. Mild or unlikely adverse effects. Compatible under certain circumstances. Follow-up recommended. Read Commentary.)