Lactational amenorrhea is the absence of menstruation during a period of intense lactation following parturition. This condition is characterized by the suppression of ovulation due to the high levels of prolactin hormone that is produced during breastfeeding. It is a natural form of contraception that occurs in lactating women and can last for up to 6 months after delivery.

Explanation:

During lactation, the high levels of prolactin hormone that is produced due to the stimulation of the nipples during breastfeeding, suppresses the production of follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH) and luteinizing hormone (LH) that are responsible for ovulation. This results in the absence of menstruation and the prevention of pregnancy during the period of intense lactation.

Factors affecting lactational amenorrhea:

The duration of lactational amenorrhea depends on various factors such as:

1. Frequency and duration of breastfeeding: The more frequent and longer the breastfeeding, the higher the levels of prolactin hormone, and hence longer the period of lactational amenorrhea.

2. Introduction of solid foods: The introduction of solid foods to the baby's diet reduces the frequency and duration of breastfeeding, thereby decreasing the levels of prolactin hormone, and increasing the chances of ovulation.

3. Baby's age: As the baby grows older, the frequency and duration of breastfeeding decrease, resulting in a decrease in the levels of prolactin hormone, and hence an increase in the chances of ovulation.

Advantages of lactational amenorrhea:

1. Natural form of contraception: Lactational amenorrhea is a natural form of contraception that does not require the use of contraceptives.

2. Benefits of breastfeeding: Lactation provides various benefits to both the mother and the baby, such as the transfer of immunity, prevention of infections, and bonding.

3. Cost-effective: Lactational amenorrhea is a cost-effective method of contraception as it does not require the use of contraceptives.

Limitations of lactational amenorrhea:

1. Not reliable: Lactational amenorrhea is not a reliable method of contraception as it depends on various factors such as frequency and duration of breastfeeding, introduction of solid foods, and baby's age.

2. Short duration: The period of lactational amenorrhea lasts only up to 6 months postpartum, after which other methods of contraception need to be used.

3. Not suitable for all: Lactational amenorrhea is not suitable for all women, especially those who have irregular menstrual cycles or who have medical conditions that affect lactation.

Lactational amenorrhea - it inhibits the secretion of fsh in turns estrogen is not at its proper concentration ,therefor endometrium remains arrested[stop]