There are many special considerations to take into account when choosing a birth control method after giving birth. One of the most important factors is whether or not you are breastfeeding. Lactating women are much less likely to get pregnant, so if you are breastfeeding, you may not need to use birth control at all.
With all that, there are many questions women have when considering birth control after giving birth:
- What are the different types of birth control available?
- How do I know which type of birth control is right for me?
- What are the side effects of birth control?
- How effective is birth control?
- Will birth control affect my ability to get pregnant in the future?
- How long do I need to use birth control after childbirth?
- Can I use birth control if I am breastfeeding?
- What if I have a medical condition that makes some types of birth control unsafe for me?
- Will my insurance cover the cost of birth control?
- Where can I get more information about birth control?
Each family will have to decide for themselves what is the best choice, however, if you are not breastfeeding, or if you want to be extra cautious, there are a few considerations with the common types of birth control. These include oral contraceptives, intrauterine devices (IUDs), implants, and injections. Each method has its own advantages and disadvantages, so a woman may choose one method over another based on her individual needs and preferences.
- Oral contraceptives, also known as "the pill," are one of the most popular methods of birth control. They are highly effective at preventing pregnancy, and they can also offer some other benefits, such as lighter periods and reduced acne. However, oral contraceptives come with some risks, such as an increased risk of blood clots and stroke.
- IUDs are small, T-shaped devices that are inserted into the uterus. IUDs are long-acting, reversible, and highly effective at preventing pregnancy. They can also offer some other benefits, such as lighter periods. However, IUDs come with some risks, such as an increased risk of pelvic inflammatory disease.
- Implants are small, rod-shaped devices inserted under the upper arm's skin. Implants are long-acting, reversible, and highly effective at preventing pregnancy. However, implants come with some risks, such as an increased risk of blood clots.
- Injections are typically given every three months. Injections are long-acting, reversible, and highly effective at preventing pregnancy. However, injections come with some risks, such as an increased risk of weight gain.
There are many reasons why birth control is an important decision after childbirth. For one, it can help prevent another pregnancy for at least a few years, giving the mother time to recover from the previous birth and bond with her new baby. It can also help space out pregnancies, which is important for the health of both the mother and the child. Additionally, birth control can allow the mother to better plan and prepare for future pregnancies. There are many different types of birth control available, so it is important to consult with a healthcare provider to find the best option for the mother and her family. The most important thing is to decide what is best for the mother and her health.