When to consider birth control after giving birth? Many new parents begin to think about their future family shortly after giving birth to their latest child. They begin to make plans. Do they want more children and how soon? Some new parents don’t give it a thought and simply say, the more the merrier. During this postpartum time, new parents might be wise to think ahead.
If You Can’t Be Good, Be Careful
Many mothers have said this in jest to their older teen or young 20 something, but it does apply to new parents. Did you know you can get pregnant very soon after giving birth? 
Ovulation can occur within just a few weeks of child birth if you aren’t breastfeeding. If you are breastfeeding, ovulation can be delayed, but it normally returns by 6 months. Once ovulation occurs, you can get pregnant and since ovulation occurs 2 weeks before your period starts, you can actually get pregnant before you get your first period.
Some Expert Suggestions
There are other considerations. Are you and your partner ready to jump right in and have another one, or do you want to give some time for you to adjust to parenthood? Also think about how much time you want there to be between siblings. Experts suggest waiting 18 months before having another child.
All birth control methods are safe after pregnancy. Now might be a good time to discuss all this with our doctors. Maybe you are even thinking about not having another child for a long time, or maybe ever. Your gynecologist can give you recommendations for all scenarios.
For breastfeeding moms, you will usually be advised to wait 6 weeks to begin using the combined pill, the vaginal ring, or the patch.
At the 6 week period after giving birth you can begin using the diaphragm or cap. If you used a diaphragm or cap before birth, see your doctor to be sure it still fits properly. You may need a new size.
What Are the Types of Birth Control Methods?
Beyond 6 weeks, it’s your choice: Hormonal, Barrier, or Lifestyle methods. This depends on how effective you want the prevention to be.
Forms of Hormonal Birth Control
Hormonal birth control work by regulating hormones to prevent ovulation, making it a highly effective way to avoid pregnancy.
Birth Control Implant
- The birth control implant is a very small plastic matchstick size implant inserted into your arm.
- It is 99% effective for up to 5 years.
- You can have it removed any time.
Hormonal IUD
- A hormonal IUD is a T-shaped plastic intrauterine device that releases progestin.
- It is inserted through the vagina and into the uterus by your gynecologist.
- It is 99% effective.
- IUDs work for 3-7 years, depending on the type.
- The IUD can be removed anytime.
Birth Control Shot
- The birth control shot is injected every 3 months.
- It is 94% effective.
Vaginal Ring
- The vaginal ring is a small flexible ring you insert into vagina.
- It releases hormones that lower risk of pregnancy.
- IT is 91% effective
- Last 3-5 weeks remove and insert new one
Birth Control Patch
- This is a sticky patch attaches to back, buttocks, arm, or stomach.
- The birth control patch is 91% effective.
- They need to be replaced weekly.
Birth Control Pills
- Birth control pills must be taken at same time each day to be most effective.
- With perfect use, they are up to 99% effective, however, with the average use they are about 91% effective.
- Mini pills contain progestin.
- Combination pills contain progesterone and estrogen.
Types of Non-Hormonal Contraception
There are various effective non-hormonal contraceptive options to consider:
Copper IUDs
Highly effective at 99%, hormone-free, and provides protection for up to 12 years.
Barrier Methods
These options vary in effectiveness and are used to block sperm from reaching the egg.
- Female condoms: About 79% effective.
- Diaphragm: Offers around 88% effectiveness.
- Cervical cap: Approximately 71% effective, depending on whether a woman has given birth.
- Sponge: Offers about 76% effectiveness for those who have not given birth, and less for those who have.
- Spermicide: Around 71% effective when used alone, often combined with other methods for better results.
Lifestyle Methods
These rely on control, abstinence, and avoiding sex altogether.
You can also consider permanent birth control like vasectomy or tubal ligation.
Birth Control Counseling After Childbirth in Reston, VA
Contact All About Women at (703) 437-0001 if you want to discuss birth control before or right after giving birth.
Sources:
Sex and contraception after birth – NHS (www.nhs.uk)
Postpartum Birth Control: Your Options After Giving Birth (vanderbilthealth.com)
How soon should I start birth control after having a baby? – (mscwomenshealth.com)