Contraception following pregnancy.

Contraception after having a baby

When you come home with your new baby there is so much to think about and contraception often features low down on the ‘to do’ list!  You may feel like you will never have the energy to have sex again, so contraception isn’t a priority.

National and local statistics show that unplanned pregnancies do occur, sometimes within weeks or just a few months after having a baby. 

It is recommended that you wait at least 18 months after having a baby to try to conceive again.  This reduces the chance of complications during your next pregnancy and increases the likelihood that your baby will be born at full term and a healthy weight.


You need contraception from 21 days after having your baby to prevent an unplanned pregnancy. 

You can watch a video explaining more about Contraception After Childbirth | Lothian Sexual Health from Lothian Sexual Health (c) NHS Lothian 2023


The most effective methods of contraception are Long Acting Reversible Contraception (LARC) methods:

After having a baby most methods of contraception can be started straight away. You can:


An IUD or IUS can usually be fitted anytime from 4 weeks after having a baby.

Combined hormonal contraception (pills, patches, rings) can be given 3-6 weeks postnatally depending on an individual assessment.

For more information about contraception after birth: Sex and contraception after birth - NHS (www.nhs.uk)

Contraception following an abortion

Some women find it is difficult to think about contraception following an abortion.  However, if you have unprotected sex only 5 days after your abortion you can risk a repeat pregnancy.

The most effective methods of contraception are Long Acting Reversible Contraception (LARC) methods:

You can read more about different methods of contraception on the individual contraception pages.

Contraception after a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy

If you have had the trauma of a miscarriage or an ectopic pregnancy, the last thing on your mind may be contraception, but it's really important to think about this if you are not planning a repeat pregnancy straight away.

You will need to use contraception from day 5 after a miscarriage or ectopic pregnancy.

The most effective methods of contraception are Long Acting Reversible Contraception (LARC) methods:

 

You can read more about different methods of contraception on the individual contraception pages.

If you want to discuss your options with a member of our team you can: