Postpartum birth control.
So, you've just welcomed a new baby, and now, amidst the whirlwind of feedings, diaper changes, and sleepless nights, there's another important topic to tackle: birth control and family planning. It might seem a bit overwhelming to think about contraception when you're adjusting to your new role as a parent, but understanding your options and planning ahead can make a big difference for your health and your family’s future.
Interconception planning is a discussion you'll ideally have with your provider before you give birth, focusing on your plans for future pregnancies and how you want to space them out. Why is this important? Short intervals between pregnancies can pose risks for both you and your next baby, such as uterine rupture or low birth weight. To minimize these risks, it’s generally recommended to wait at least 18 months between giving birth and conceiving again, and avoid intervals shorter than 6 months..
Even if you’re not planning to resume sexual activity anytime soon, it’s still a good idea to discuss your birth control options with your provider. This way, you’ll be prepared when the time comes and can make informed decisions about what’s best for you.
Your Postpartum Birth Control Options
Let’s address one of the biggest myths right off the bat: Yes, you can get pregnant before your period returns! This is because ovulation happens about two weeks before your period. In fact, you can get pregnant again as soon as three weeks after giving birth. If you’re not ready for another baby just yet, don’t rely on the absence of your period alone as an indicator of your fertility status.
If you’re breastfeeding, you might be considering the Lactation Amenorrhea Method (LAM) as a form of contraception. LAM can be quite effective, but it’s essential to meet all four conditions for it to work:
Exclusively Breastfeeding: You’re nursing at least every 4 hours during the day and every 6 hours at night.
Feeding Only Breast Milk: Your baby is under 6 months old and not eating solids.
No Breast Pumping: You’re not using a breast pump.
No Return of Periods: Your menstrual cycle has not resumed.
If any of these conditions are not met, LAM’s effectiveness drops, and pregnancy could be possible. Additionally, if your periods do return, ovulation tracking methods of birth control (also known as natural family planning) might be less effective since breastfeeding can make your cycles irregular.
Barrier methods, such as condoms or diaphragms, are a great option if you want to avoid hormones while breastfeeding. They are effective when used correctly and don't interfere with milk production.
For those who are open to hormonal options, several types of birth control are safe to use during breastfeeding. These include:
Pills: Progestin-only pills (the mini-pill) are often recommended because they don’t affect milk supply. Unlike combined hormonal pills (which contain both estrogen and progestin), progestin-only pills are considered safe for breastfeeding mothers.
Implants: Birth control implants are a long-term option that can be effective for several years. They release a small amount of progestin, which is safe for breastfeeding.
Injections: The birth control shot is another option. It’s effective for about three months per injection and is also safe during breastfeeding.
Intrauterine devices: IUDs, both hormonal and copper, are excellent choices for postpartum contraception. They are highly effective and can be inserted shortly after childbirth. The hormonal IUD releases progestin, while the copper IUD is hormone-free. Both types of IUDs can be used during breastfeeding without affecting milk supply.
If you’re certain that you don’t want any more children, you might consider permanent methods like sterilization. For women, this usually involves tubal ligation, while men might opt for a vasectomy. These options are irreversible, so they should be carefully considered and discussed with your provider.
Planning your birth control strategy is not just about avoiding pregnancy; it’s also about setting yourself up for a healthy future. By spacing your pregnancies appropriately, you’re giving your body time to recover and ensuring that you’re in the best possible health for your next baby.
Discussing your options with your healthcare provider before and after childbirth helps ensure you have a plan that suits your needs and lifestyle. This proactive approach can also ease some of the stress and uncertainty that might come with the postpartum period.
In conclusion, the postpartum period is a time of significant change, and managing your reproductive health is a crucial part of it. Whether you’re breastfeeding, considering hormonal options, or exploring non-hormonal methods, there are plenty of choices to help you navigate this phase. By understanding your options and planning ahead, you can make informed decisions that support both your well-being and your family’s future.
Sources:
American College of Obstetrics and Gynecology postpartum birth control FAQs.
