Which Type of Contraception Is Best After Childbirth?

Contraception is always a very personal decision. You should consider your lifestyle, the method’s effectiveness, your personal beliefs, and your health. After childbirth, you also want to think about giving your body time to heal, planning future pregnancies, and maintaining your overall well-being. 

The OB/GYN team at Women’s Care of Beverly Hills in South Bay, Redondo Beach, and Beverly Hills, California supports all aspects of your pregnancy, including the postpartum period.

Read on to explore various contraceptive options available after childbirth. 

Why postpartum contraception is important

After childbirth, it’s possible to become pregnant again as soon as three weeks postpartum, even if you are breastfeeding and have not yet had a menstrual period. Health organizations recommend waiting at least six months before becoming pregnant again and, optimally at least 18 months, to avoid complications during the next pregnancy and delivery. 

Having a contraception plan before leaving the hospital or creating one during your postpartum check-up is therefore important. We here at Women’s Care of Beverly Hills can help.

Post-childbirth contraceptive options

You have many options when it comes to contraception, including: 

Natural methods

You can follow a method called the lactational amenorrhea method (LAM), which can be about 98% effective when practiced correctly. For LAM to be effective, you must breastfeed exclusively (no formula supplementation), nurse at least every four hours during the day and every six hours at night, and your baby must be under six months old.

This method can be effective for up to six months postpartum but is not a long-term birth control option. 

Barrier methods

Condoms, diaphragms, and cervical caps are examples of barrier methods as they prevent the sperm and egg from connecting. These methods have less reliability compared to many other methods due to improper use, leading to unwanted pregnancy. 

Barrier methods do allow for a natural return to female fertility after birth because they don’t interfere with a woman's hormones. 

Hormonal methods

Birth control pills, patches, injections (Depo-Provera), vaginal rings, and implants like Nexplanon® are all hormone-based contraception options. They can be as much as 99% effective in preventing pregnancy when used correctly. 

Depending on the method you choose, you may need to have good practices, like taking a pill daily or getting an injection monthly. Some forms of hormonal birth control can lead to mood changes, weight gain, and decreased milk supply. 

Intrauterine devices

Intrauterine devices (IUDs) come in both hormonal and non-hormonal (copper) forms.

IUDs and implants are highly effective in preventing pregnancy for three to 10 years, depending on the form you choose. They are a good option if you want a reversible form of birth control, but also want to avoid the hassle of having to use a barrier or take a pill. 

We provide IUD placement for both hormonal and non-hormonal types. 

Permanent methods

If you are certain your family is complete, tubal ligation is a permanent form of female birth control. Your partner could also undergo a vasectomy, which prevents sperm from reaching the semen. While these procedures can sometimes be reversed, it’s best to be sure you don’t want any more pregnancies before undergoing a permanent procedure. 

Postpartum factors that affect your birth control choice

When choosing the best postpartum contraception for you, make a decision based on your current health and lifestyle situation. 

If you’re breastfeeding, know that some hormonal methods, especially those containing estrogen, may affect your milk supply. We usually recommend progestin-only methods (like the mini-pill, injectables, and implants) for breastfeeding mothers.

We also take into account any pre-existing conditions you may have and can review these with you to help you understand how certain contraception choices may affect you. Remember, the best contraception is one that you use consistently and correctly.

At Women’s Care of Beverly Hills, we're here to support you every step of the way in your postpartum journey. Call or use the online tool to book an appointment today.