Final answer:
Hormonal contraception methods that a breastfeeding mother can safely use include birth control pills containing estrogen and progesterone or progesterone-only pills, as well as intrauterine devices. Barrier methods, such as condoms, are also safe for breastfeeding mothers.
Step-by-step explanation:
Hormonal methods involve the administration of hormones to prevent ovulation. Hormones can be administered in various ways, such as in an injection, through a skin patch, or, most commonly, in birth control pills. There are two types of birth control pills: those that contain estrogen and progesterone, and those that contain only progesterone. Both types are equally effective, but they have different potential side effects.
An intrauterine device (IUD) is a small T-shaped plastic structure containing copper or a hormone that is inserted into the uterus by a physician and left in place for months or even years. It is highly effective even with typical use, but it does have some risks, such as increased menstrual bleeding and, rarely, perforation of the uterus.
Barrier methods, such as male condoms or female condoms, do not involve the use of hormones and are also safe for breastfeeding mothers.