Having just given birth, contraception is possibly the last thing on your mind. It is however, very important that you bear in mind the following:
- You may ovulate (produce an egg) very soon after birth.
- You do not need to have ‘a proper period’ to be fertile.
- If you do not, therefore, plan to have another pregnancy straight away, be aware that you will need to start using contraception immediately.
The options include:
- The combined pill
- Progesterone only pill
- Injectable contraception (e.g. Depo-Provera)
- Intrauterine Contraceptive Device (IUCD)
- Male condom
- Female condom
- Diaphragm with Spermicide
- Female Sterilisation
- Male Sterilisation (Vasectomy)
Some of the options mentioned above may not be suitable for the immediate postnatal period or if you are breastfeeding. Do have a chat with your GP or the family planning doctor or nurse about what is appropriate for you.
Male and female sterilisation are irreversible and it is important that you discuss this at length with your doctor and partner before choosing this option.
Read more about contraception:
Resuming sex
There is no right or wrong time to resume your sex life. Be guided by how you feel, physically and emotionally and talk to your partner about this. If you are experiencing problems with resuming sex or experiencing difficulties having intercourse after three to four months seek advice from your GP.
