Family planning is a crucial aspect. Many young parents wait for the first delivery to start thinking about it, so the next best time would be after childbirth.
Postpartum contraceptives help new mothers manage their reproductive health better and make informed choices.
Why choose postpartum contraception?
- Spacing pregnancies: Spacing births by at least 18 months allows your body to recover and ensures optimal health for both you and your baby.
- Reduced maternal health risks: Closely spaced pregnancies can increase risks of anaemia, preterm birth, and low birth weight.
- Improved breastfeeding experience: Some contraceptive methods don't affect breastfeeding, allowing you to continue nourishing your baby.
Keeping all these factors in mind, it is necessary to choose a postpartum contraceptive that aligns best with your preferences. Your healthcare advisor would guide you the best towards the most suited option, but you should have a brief idea of all available options.
Factors to consider when choosing postpartum contraception
- Breastfeeding: If you plan to breastfeed, some methods are more suitable than others.
- Desired future pregnancies: Consider how soon you'd like to conceive again.
- Medical history: Discuss any pre-existing health conditions with your doctor.
- Lifestyle and preferences: Choose a method that aligns with your comfort and ease of use.
When to start contraception
Contraception can be started immediately after childbirth or after a few weeks, depending on the method chosen and individual health conditions.
Postpartum contraceptive options
- Lactational Amenorrhea Method (LAM): It is a natural method that relies on exclusive breastfeeding (frequent and on-demand) to suppress ovulation. It is effective with proper adherence but might not be suitable for everyone.
- Progesterone-only Pills (POP): POP is safe and effective for breastfeeding mothers. You should start it within the first week after delivery (non-breastfeeding) or 6 weeks (breastfeeding).
- Injectable contraceptives: Injections like DMPA (Depo-Provera) provide long-term protection (3 months) and are safe for breastfeeding.
- Intrauterine Contraceptive Device (IUD): Copper IUDs are highly effective and don't interfere with breastfeeding. It can be inserted immediately after delivery or within 6 weeks.
- Condoms: Condoms offer protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and can be used alongside other methods.
- Female sterilisation (tubectomy): It’s a permanent birth control option through a minor surgical procedure. Consider this only if you're sure about not wanting future pregnancies.
In addition to these, your male partner can consider getting a vasectomy which is a low-effort procedure with high efficacy and permanence. Again, you should only go ahead with it if you’re completely sure of not having another baby.
Consulting your healthcare provider
- Discuss your postpartum contraception plans with your healthcare provider during pregnancy or soon after delivery.
- Don't hesitate to ask questions and clarify any doubts you might have.
- If you’re still not sure about another baby, start with temporary contraceptives and wait for a few years to make the right decision.
Starting postpartum contraception
- Some methods can be initiated very soon after delivery, while others require waiting for a few weeks.
- Make sure to communicate your specific needs to get the best possible solution. In the end, postpartum contraception is a personal choice that fully matches your personality and lifestyle.
Navigating through postpartum contraceptives is vital for new mothers to manage their reproductive health effectively. Don’t delay it further as there are plenty of options available and you’ll find the best fit for you.
Proper contraception use ensures better health for both mother and child, allowing families to plan and space pregnancies according to their needs and preferences.
Sources:
UT Southwestern Medical Center
Grace Obstetrics and Gynecology
FIGO (International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics
The American College of Obstetricians and GynecologistsBoston Children’s Hospital
