POST-PARTUM CONTRACEPTION

Why is post-partum contraception needed?

After birth your menstrual cycle should return within the next three weeks. Although sex may be the last thing on your mind, Dr Makhubo encourages new moms to start with contraception early as possible after delivery as an unplanned pregnancies can happen within months of giving birth. Falling pregnant within a year of giving birth can also be dangerous for mom and baby, and therefore post-partum contraception is advised.

What post-partum contraception options are available?

Your options in terms of contraception have increased drastically in the last few years, and Dr Makhubo can help you find the best fit for your lifestyle in terms of when and if your plan to have more children and how soon you plan to fall pregnant again. Whether or not you are breastfeeding or not will be a deciding factor for what contraception method she will advise.

If breastfeeding, progesterone-only contraception methods may be best suited as they have no effect on breast milk. Apart from hormonal contraception, an implant may be very effective for women who plan to space their pregnancies and can be inserted by Dr Makhubo straight after delivery. Intra uterine devices (IUD) such as a Copper-T or Mirena can also be inserted as soon as 6 weeks after delivery and last from 3-6 years.