After giving birth, many women want to prevent pregnancy until they are ready to conceive again. Postpartum contraception can help women achieve this goal. Here are the basics of postpartum contraception:.

What is postpartum contraception?

Postpartum contraception refers to the use of birth control after giving birth. The goal is to prevent pregnancy until the woman is ready to conceive again.

When should postpartum contraception start?

Postpartum contraception should start as soon as possible after giving birth. This is because ovulation can occur within weeks of giving birth, even if the woman is breastfeeding.

What are the options for postpartum contraception?

There are several options for postpartum contraception:.

Barrier methods: These include condoms, diaphragms, and cervical caps. They work by physically blocking sperm from meeting the egg.
Hormonal methods: These include birth control pills, patches, injections, vaginal rings, and hormonal IUDs. They work by altering hormone levels to prevent ovulation or thicken cervical mucus to block sperm.
Long-acting reversible contraception: These include the copper IUD and hormonal IUDs. They are inserted into the uterus and can provide protection from pregnancy for several years.
Sterilization: This includes tubal ligation (surgical sterilization) and Essure (a non-surgical method that involves blocking the fallopian tubes with small devices). Sterilization is a permanent form of birth control.

What are the pros and cons of each postpartum contraception option?

Each postpartum contraception option has its own pros and cons:.

Barrier methods: Pros: No hormones involved, can be used on an as-needed basis. Cons: May interfere with spontaneity, may not be as effective as other methods, can break or slip.
Hormonal methods: Pros: Easy to use, highly effective, can provide non-contraceptive benefits (such as improving acne or reducing menstrual cramps). Cons: May have side effects (such as headaches or mood changes), may not be recommended for women with certain health conditions.
Long-acting reversible contraception: Pros: Highly effective, convenient (once inserted, no daily maintenance required), long-lasting. Cons: May have initial cost and/or discomfort during insertion, may not be recommended for women with certain health conditions.
Sterilization: Pros: Highly effective, permanent. Cons: Irreversible, may have surgical risks or side effects, may not be recommended for women with certain health conditions.

How effective is postpartum contraception?

The effectiveness of postpartum contraception depends on the method chosen. According to Planned Parenthood, the failure rate (aka the chance of pregnancy in the first year of use) for each method is:.

Barrier methods: 15-24%
Hormonal methods: Less than 1%
Long-acting reversible contraception: Less than 1%
Sterilization: Less than 1%

How long should postpartum contraception be used for?

Postpartum contraception should be used until the woman is ready to conceive again. The specific duration will depend on the woman’s personal goals and preferences.

Is breastfeeding a form of postpartum contraception?

Breastfeeding can be a form of postpartum contraception, but there are certain requirements that must be met for it to be effective. These include:.

The baby must be less than six months old.
The mother must be exclusively breastfeeding (no formula or solid foods).
The mother must be breastfeeding frequently (at least every four hours during the day and every six hours at night).

Even if these requirements are met, breastfeeding is not a foolproof form of contraception. It is possible (although rare) for a woman to ovulate and conceive while breastfeeding.

What if a woman becomes pregnant while using postpartum contraception?

If a woman becomes pregnant while using postpartum contraception, she should contact her healthcare provider immediately. Depending on the method used, there may be a risk of birth defects or other complications.

Summary

Postpartum contraception is an important consideration for women who want to prevent pregnancy after giving birth. There are several options available, including barrier methods, hormonal methods, long-acting reversible contraception, and sterilization.

Each method has its own pros and cons, and effectiveness varies. Breastfeeding can be a form of postpartum contraception, but it is not foolproof. Women who become pregnant while using postpartum contraception should contact their healthcare provider.