What Is the Best Time to Start Birth Control After Pregnancy?

When you’ve just delivered your baby, you’ve got a lot on your mind. 

In addition to the excitement of bringing home your new little one, and the physical and emotional changes that come with this new phase of life, there’s also the consideration of birth control after pregnancy. 

In this article, we’ll address making contraception plans for your future, including how soon you should start birth control, and factors that determine which method is the best postpartum.

Birth Control After Pregnancy: How Soon Should You Start Contraception After Giving Birth? 

One of the considerations of your new life postpartum will be the best birth control option and when to begin using it. How soon you choose to start birth control after pregnancy depends on whether you plan to breastfeed and the contraceptive method you want to use. Some women may want to make this decision while still pregnant.

We recommend that you wait at least six weeks after the birth of your baby before resuming intercourse, keeping in mind that most hormonal birth control options need around two weeks to become effective. 

Using “Combined” Birth Control Options

If you plan to use the birth control pill, patch, or ring (known as combined birth control because they contain both estrogen and progestin), these methods should not be started before six weeks postpartum, as doing so could increase the risk of a blood clot. 

If you plan to breastfeed, you should take into consideration that estrogen in these options may reduce the amount of breast milk produced.

If you are not breastfeeding, ovulation can start a few weeks after giving birth. If you are breastfeeding, ovulation typically returns at around six months, but this can vary and may begin sooner or later than six months. Once you begin ovulating, you can get pregnant again. 

When Can I Start Postpartum Birth Control?

Most contraceptive methods can be started at your postpartum visit, which we recommend you have within 4-6 weeks after giving birth.

Using an IUD

If an IUD is your preferred method of birth control, we advise waiting 12 weeks to have it inserted to give your uterus a chance to return to its previous size; if placed right after birth, there is the chance it may be expelled. 

The Birth Control Implant

The birth control implant can usually be inserted immediately after delivery. 

Questions? We’re Available to Help

It’s best to consult with your OBGYN to determine how soon to begin birth control after pregnancy and which form to use, based on whether you plan to breastfeed and other health factors. 

Which Birth Control Method is the Best During Postpartum?

When choosing postpartum birth control, there are a few factors to consider. In addition to your breastfeeding plans, other things to keep in mind are:

• The effectiveness of each option after pregnancy
• When it’s safe to begin using the method
• Your health history
• Your personal preferences

For example:

• If you plan to breastfeed, keep in mind that some methods that contain estrogen may decrease the amount of breast milk produced. 
• Some birth control methods, such as the sponge and cervical cap, are not as effective after pregnancy.

We would welcome the opportunity to discuss all of your birth control options for the postpartum period, along with the pros and cons of each, including:

• IUDs 
• Implants
• Combined hormonal methods like:
  • The pill
  • The ring
  • The patch  
• Barrier methods, such as:
  • Condoms
  • Spermicides
  • Diaphragms
  • Cervical caps
  • Sponges

How Long Should You Wait Before Getting Pregnant Again? 

Our recommendation is that it’s best to wait at least 18 months between pregnancies before having another baby. That said, your pregnancy timing will depend on your personal preferences, as well as your age and your previous pregnancy history. 

Speak to us about your pregnancy plans so we can help you make an informed decision.

Postpartum Birth Control

Postpartum birth control methods include:

• • IUD (Intrauterine Device) and Implant
  • Combined hormonal methods such as the pill, ring or patch 
  • Barrier methods, such as condoms and spermicides, and the diaphragm, cervical cap, or sponge

• Progestin-only injectable contraceptives, such as Depo-Provera

• Sterilization

Each of these methods has benefits, risks and side effects. Some can be started right away, while others require waiting a few weeks. Review postpartum birth control options with one of our OBGYNs so we can guide you in determining the best choice for you.

Associates in Women’s Healthcare: Your Compassionate Partner in Labor, Delivery and Postpartum Care 

Figuring out which birth control method to use after pregnancy may not be at the top of your To Do list immediately after giving birth, especially if you’re experiencing postpartum physical or emotional challenges, which may include mood swings and depression. 

We’re here to support you through all the circumstances of your postpartum recovery and provide the care you need. 

We’ll answer your questions, help you understand the changes you’re experiencing, and counsel you on the best contraceptive options for you, based on your preferences and your health history. Experience our compassionate care firsthand by scheduling an appointment today.

Sources:

1. American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, “Postpartum Birth Control,”
   https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/postpartum-birth-control
2. Harvard Medical School, “Birth Control Right After Having a Baby,” 
   https://www.health.harvard.edu/blog/birth-control-right-after-having-a-baby-why-its-important-why-it-should-be-covered-2016083110200