Contraception After Childbirth
Most of the methods mentioned elsewhere are suitable to use if you have recently had a baby and want to space your next pregnancy, or require longer term contraception. Most of these are also safe to use if you are breastfeeding.
Your midwife will usually discuss contraception with you during one of your antenatal visits so that you have time to consider your options. can start your chosen method soon after you have your baby.
It is safer for you and any future pregnancy to wait at least 12 months before getting pregnant again. If you are not planning another pregnancy straight away, you should start contraception no later than three weeks after your baby is born. Methods like the progestogen-only pill, IUDs and implant can be started immediately after your baby is born. These can all be provided for you before you leave the maternity service, or later by your GP, community midwife or sexual health clinic.
You can watch a short video about contraception options after childbirth below.
The video is also available in Polish, Urdu, Punjabi & Mandarin below.
You can also download this leaflet which has more information about contraceptive options after childbirth. These can be provided for either before you leave the maternity unit, or later at your GP or sexual health clinic.
Coil (IUD / IUS) immediately after giving birth
Intrauterine contraception, commonly known as a ‘coil’, is one of the most effective ways of preventing or delaying another pregnancy. There are two types – a hormonal IUD and a non-hormonal copper IUD . In most cases, these can be safely fitted for you at the time of having your baby, whether by caesarean or vaginal birth.
This service (known as postpartum intrauterine contraception or ‘PPIUC’) is available to individuals in all Lothian maternity centres
You can watch a short video below to find out more about it here:
Further information about this service is included below:
Patient Information Leaflet vaginal birth
Self-assessment checklist vaginal birth
Patient Information Leaflet caesarean birth
Self-assessment checklist caesarean birth
Aftercare advice following PPIUC insertion
If you are pregnant and interested in having a coil inserted at time of birth you should speak to your midwife or obstetrician who will be able to arrange this for you.