Contraception after having a baby

Consider contraception straight away

You can get pregnant again just 3 weeks after giving birth. This is even if you are breastfeeding and your periods have not started again yet.

Breastfeeding can reduce the risk of pregnancy. However, it is not a reliable method of contraception.

It is important to start using contraception as soon as possible to avoid a new pregnancy.

Talk to your midwife or GP about a method that is best for you.

Options

There are three types of contraception you can start immediately after having a baby and whilst you are still in the hospital:

• progestogen only pill (mini pill)
• implant
• long-acting injection (called 'Depo Provera')

All options are free on the NHS.

How they work

Each of these methods releases the hormone 'progestogen'. This is similar to a hormone produced by your own ovaries.

Progestogen prevents your ovaries from releasing eggs. It also thickens the mucus at the opening of your womb (your cervix). This helps to block sperm from getting to the egg.

Each of these methods is safe for women who cannot take the hormone estrogen.

Progestogen-only pill

• This is taken every day at roughly the same time.
• It is taken every single day without any breaks.

Easy to take	Must remember to take it at the same time every day
Good at preventing pregnancy	Possible side effects include irregular bleeding, headaches, sore breasts, changes in mood and sex drive
Suitable when breastfeeding	Does not protect against sexually transmitted infections
Can help with painful or heavy periods
Periods may stop

Injection every 3 months

• This is a slow-acting injection of progestogen.
• It is given every 3 months.
• The injection is given into your bottom, thigh or tummy.
• A nurse or doctor can train you to give yourself the injection at home.

Lasts 3 months	Must see health professional every 3 months for injection (unless you give the injection yourself)
Extremely good at preventing pregnancy	Possible side effects include irregular bleeding, changes to skin, changes in mood and sex drive, thinner bones if used long term
Suitable when breastfeeding	Does not protect against sexually transmitted infections
Can help with painful or heavy periods	After stopping the injections, it may take your body up to a year to be able to get pregnant
Periods may be lighter or stop

Implant

• This is a tiny plastic rod, about the size of a bendy matchstick. It is inserted under the skin of your upper arm.
• It needs to be replaced every 3 years.

No need to remember to take a pill every day	Needs an injection of local anaesthetic when implant is inserted
Lasts for 3 years	Rare risk of damage to nerves and blood vessels in arm when implant is inserted
Can be removed at any time	Leaves a small scar
The most effective contraception	Possible side effects include irregular bleeding, changes in mood and sex drive
Suitable when breastfeeding	Does not protect against sexually transmitted infections
Can help with painful periods
Periods can be lighter and less frequent

Support at Kingston Hospital

The Wolverton Centre at Kingston Hospital offers a full sexual health service, including:

• contraception, including
  • coil insertion and removal
  • implant insertion and removal
  • pills, patches, vaginal rings
• emergency contraception
• smear tests
• screening and treatment of sexually transmitted infections.

Contact us if you want to change your contraception or get advice at any time.

More information

Wolverton Centre for sexual health at Kingston Hospital.

Contraception Choices website from the College of Sexual and Reproductive Health.