Birth Control
NURTURE INFORMATION HUB
Evidence
Talila Milroy, Jacqueline Frayne
The timing of ovulation postnatally varies significantly and may occur before menstruation, making unplanned pregnancy in the postnatal period possible. Discussion and commencement of contraception should occur early.
Education
Your body undergoes changes after childbirth and it’s important to allow it to heal before resuming sexual activity. Your healthcare provider can guide you on a safe timeline, generally recommending waiting until bleeding subsides and any discomfort eases at around 6 weeks. It’s also important to consider birth control if you’re not planning another pregnancy soon, as it’s possible to conceive again shortly after birth even before your menstrual cycle has returned.
There are several types of birth control options that may suit your needs and lifestyle at this time. These include hormonal methods like the mini-pill, implants and injections, as well as non-hormonal options like condoms and intrauterine devices (IUDs). If you’re breastfeeding, certain birth control methods may be more suitable, as some can impact milk production. Your healthcare provider can discuss these options in-depth and help you choose one that’s safe, effective and aligns with your needs during this period.
Empowerment
Whether this is your first experience with birth control after childbirth or you’re considering a different method, you have the right to choose what feels best for you. The right birth control method will depend on your health, comfort, future family plans and any considerations related to breastfeeding.
Discuss all available options with your healthcare provider, asking questions about effectiveness, potential side effects and compatibility with breastfeeding if that applies.
Useful Links
Pregnancy, Birth and Baby
https://www.pregnancybirthbaby.org.au/contraception
The Royal Women’s Hospital, Victoria
https://www.thewomens.org.au/health-information/contraception/your-contraception-choices
The Royal Australian and New Zealand College of Obstetricians and Gynaecologists - Contraception Guideline
https://ranzcog.edu.au/wp-content/uploads/Contraception-Clinical-Guideline.pdf
Family Planning NSW
https://www.fpnsw.org.au/factsheets/individuals/pregnancy/after-having-baby
Need support? NurtureConnect allows you to connect with our NurtureProgram support team, or call our 24 hour NurtureLine 1300 622 243 or join our Facebook community.
NurtureConnect
Confirmation Content
Disclaimer: This publication by Miracle Babies Foundation is intended solely for general education and assistance and it is it is not medical advice or a healthcare recommendation. It should not be used for the purpose of medical diagnosis or treatment for any individual condition. This publication has been developed by our Parent Advisory Team (all who are parents of premature and sick babies) and has been reviewed and approved by a Clinical Advisory Team. This publication is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Miracle Babies Foundation recommends that professional medical advice and services be sought out from a qualified healthcare provider familiar with your personal circumstances. To the extent permitted by law, Miracle Babies Foundation excludes and disclaims any liability of any kind (directly or indirectly arising) to any reader of this publication who acts or does not act in reliance wholly or partly on the content of this general publication. If you would like to provide any feedback on the information please email [email protected].
Disclaimer: This publication by Miracle Babies Foundation is intended solely for general education and assistance and it is it is not medical advice or a healthcare recommendation. It should not be used for the purpose of medical diagnosis or treatment for any individual condition. This publication has been developed by our Parent Advisory Team (all who are parents of premature and sick babies) and has been reviewed and approved by a Clinical Advisory Team. This publication is not a substitute for professional medical advice. Miracle Babies Foundation recommends that professional medical advice and services be sought out from a qualified healthcare provider familiar with your personal circumstances.To the extent permitted by law, Miracle Babies Foundation excludes and disclaims any liability of any kind (directly or indirectly arising) to any reader of this publication who acts or does not act in reliance wholly or partly on the content of this general publication. If you would like to provide any feedback on the information please email [email protected].
Inspirational stories, delivered to your inbox.
NurtureLine
1300 622 243
(1300 MBABIES)
24hr family support helpline
