Contraception after birth

It is important to remember that it is possible to become pregnant again very soon after having a baby. Ovulation occurs before you have a period so it is wise to plan some means of contraception before you have sex. If you are breast feeding this can delay ovulation and stop you from having periods for a time, but breast feeding should not be relied upon as a method of contraception.

You may wish to use the family planning method that you used prior to your pregnancy or you may wish to try something different.

Possible methods of contraception:

• The condom - can be used by anybody at any time
• The cap or diaphragm - can be used six weeks after delivery. If you have one from before your pregnancy make sure you have the size checked before use.
• The mini pill - this is best started 21 days after delivery and must be taken at the same time each day. There is no evidence to suggest the mini pill is unsafe if you are breast feeding, but you may still prefer to use another form of contraception instead.
• The combined pill - this is also started 21 days after delivery and it is not as important to take it the same time each day. It should not be taken if you are breast feeding.
• IUD (intra-uterine device) - this can be fitted at your post natal check, provided the womb has returned to it's normal size.

More specialized forms of contraception are also available the hormonal IUD and implants. You could either visit your local family clinic or ask your GP for advise on which methods best suits your own individual needs.