What contraception to use after delivery?

Post Delivery is a recovery and strengthening period for the new mother. The choice of contraception after delivery depends on various factors, including your health, personal preferences, and plans for future pregnancies. It's essential to discuss your options with your healthcare provider, as they can provide guidance tailored to your specific situation.

Here are some common contraceptive options often considered after delivery:

• Barrier Methods: Barrier methods like condoms or diaphragms can be used shortly after delivery. They do not interfere with breastfeeding and have no hormonal side effects. However, they require consistent and correct use.

• Intrauterine Device (IUD): Both hormonal and non-hormonal IUDs can be inserted shortly after delivery. Hormonal IUDs like Mirena and Skyla can provide long-term contraception with fewer hormonal side effects than some other methods.

• Birth Control Pills: If you are not breastfeeding, combination birth control pills can be an option. However, they may affect milk supply if you are breastfeeding. Progestin-only pills, also known as the mini-pill, are often considered safe for breastfeeding mothers.

• Depot Medroxyprogesterone Acetate (DMPA): The birth control shot, Depo-Provera, is effective and only requires an injection every three months. It's safe for breastfeeding mothers but may cause a delay in fertility after discontinuation.

• Implants: The contraceptive implant, like Nexplanon, is a long-acting and highly effective option. It can be inserted shortly after delivery.

• Sterilization: If you are sure you do not want more children, sterilization procedures like tubal ligation (for women) or vasectomy (for men) can be considered. These are permanent forms of contraception.

• Natural Family Planning: This method involves tracking your menstrual cycle and avoiding intercourse during fertile periods. It requires diligence and may not be as effective as other methods.

• Lactational Amenorrhea Method (LAM): For breastfeeding mothers, LAM can provide some protection against pregnancy in the first six months postpartum, but it requires specific criteria to be met and is not as reliable as other methods.

Please consider these details as educational inputs. It is crucial to consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best contraception method for you based on your health, lifestyle, and family planning goals. They can also help you understand the potential risks and benefits associated with each option.

Also, keep in mind that contraceptive needs can change over time, so periodic reassessment with your healthcare provider is essential to ensure you are using the most suitable method for your current circumstances.

Have a nice day!