contraception after a baby, postpartum contraception

Postpartum Contraception: What’s Best for You?"

Different types of postpartum contraception methods, including IUDs, pills, and condoms.
So, you've welcomed a new addition to your family and now you're wondering how to prevent any more surprise visits. Don't worry, because this blog post is here to save the day! Let's dive into some interesting and fun ways to keep that baby-making factory on pause. After having a baby, one of the next important steps is choosing a reliable form of postpartum contraception to prevent an unintended pregnancy. Did you know fertility can return as soon as 21 days postpartum, even if you’re breastfeeding? This guide will explore effective birth control options, from long-acting methods to breastfeeding as contraception, so you can make an informed choice." For breastfeeding to be relied upon as a form of postpartum contraception, you must meet these criteria.
   Your baby is under six months old, You are exclusively breastfeeding, meaning you are not giving your baby formula, a dummy, or solid foods, You are breastfeeding on demand, at least every four hours during the day and every six hours during the night, You have not had any vaginal bleeding since six weeks after giving birth.
Ovulation can sneak up on you before you get your first period post-baby, which means you can get pregnant before you even realise it, that's the reason why it's important to think about postpartum contraception sooner rather than later. Here's a timeline breakdown to help guide your decision-making:
  • Immediately postpartum: Certain methods, like condoms or spermicide, can be used right away. They’re non-hormonal, easy to access, and safe to use in the days immediately following childbirth.
  • Within 24 hours to 6 weeks: Long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs), like IUDs (intrauterine devices), can be inserted right after delivery. IUDs are particularly popular because they're highly effective and require little effort after placement. The implants (like Nexplanon) can also be placed in this window.
  • 6 weeks onward: By six weeks postpartum, most hormonal birth control methods can safely be considered. This includes birth control pills, patches, vaginal rings, and injections (like Depo-Provera). By this time, your body has had a chance to recover, and these options become viable without affecting breastfeeding in most cases (though it's best to choose a progestin-only pill if breastfeeding).

Why Does Timing Matter?

According to a study published in the journal Obstetrics & Gynecology, about 50% of women resume sexual activity within six weeks postpartum, and 86% by 12 weeks. However, without proper contraception, as many as 35-50% of women may experience an unintended pregnancy within the first year postpartum. It’s crucial to get a plan in place early on to avoid becoming part of that statistic!

The Lowdown on LARCs: IUDs & Implants

LARCs are the superheroes of postpartum contraception, giving you reliable and long-term coverage (up to 3-10 years depending on the type). Here’s a look at their effectiveness:

  • IUDs: Less than 1% failure rate over a year, meaning they're over 99% effective.
  • Implants (like Nexplanon): Similar success, with a failure rate of 0.05%. These are great options if you’re looking for "set it and forget it" convenience.

Pills, Patches, and Rings

If you prefer more flexibility (or the thought of something inside your body isn't appealing), you can opt for daily or monthly methods. Here's a look at the numbers:

  • Pills: When used perfectly, they're 99% effective, but real-world use can drop to 91% due to missed doses. Progestin-only pills are preferred if you're breastfeeding.
  • Patches and vaginal rings: Both methods are 91-94% effective, though these require regular attention, like changing the patch weekly or the ring monthly.

Barrier Methods: Condoms & Diaphragms

Barrier methods like condoms offer 82% effectiveness, with dual protection against both pregnancy and STIs. Diaphragms are a bit less effective, around 88%, but both are good choices for couples looking for non-hormonal options.

Permanent Solutions: Tubal Ligation & Vasectomy: Snip, Snip!

For those absolutely sure their family is complete, permanent solutions might be the way to go:

  • Tubal ligation (commonly referred to as "getting your tubes tied"): More than 99% effective and can be performed shortly after childbirth or in a separate procedure.
  • Vasectomy: Also more than 99% effective and a simpler outpatient procedure for male partners.

Breastfeeding as Contraception?

Known as the lactational amenorrhea method (LAM), exclusive breastfeeding can serve as a temporary form of contraception for up to 6 months postpartum. However breastfeeding as contraception is only reliable if:

  • You are exclusively breastfeeding (no formula or solid foods).
  • Your baby is less than 6 months old.
  • Your periods have not resumed.

LAM has a 98% effectiveness rate under these strict conditions, but if any of these factors change, you’ll need to switch to another method to stay covered.

The Takeaway

Choosing the right postpartum contraception depends on your lifestyle, how soon you want another child (if at all), and your health. Whether it’s the long-term convenience of LARCs, the flexibility of pills or patches, or the permanent peace of mind of sterilization, the most important thing is to start planning early. It’s all about putting the brakes on baby number two (or three) until you’re ready!

Navigating the first few months postpartum can be a challenge for many new mums. You likely had big dreams and plans for what you wanted to achieve during maternity leave, but before you know it, the time has flown by, and it's already time to think about returning to work.

A key question is: How do you stay motivated after having a baby?

While it's crucial to prioritize rest and caring for your newborn, it’s equally important to take care of yourself. As your baby grows a bit older, you'll have more space to begin planning for your return to work or pursue those beautiful ideas and aspirations you’ve been nurturing.

Staying Motivated as a New Parent"

Part of feeling empowered during this transition is about balance and finding ways to stay motivated. Along with family planning and considering postpartum contraception, it’s also helpful to create an environment that inspires you. Our motivational products, from uplifting scented candles to motivational boxes, can provide little boosts of encouragement as you step into this next phase of life.

Don't forget to shop all motivational products from the MOTIVATIONS SHOP HERE

Best Wishes 

Dr Mute'

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