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Contraception After Birth: Options, Timing and Breastfeeding
When you can get pregnant again after birth, which methods are suitable while breastfeeding and when to start.
Before you use this guide: This is general educational information, not an individual medical assessment. We do not identify a clinician reviewer on this page, so please confirm personal health decisions with your doctor, midwife or paediatrician.
It is easy to forget about contraception in the first weeks with a newborn, but fertility can return sooner than you expect. Planning ahead helps you avoid an unplanned pregnancy and allows your body time to recover.
When can I get pregnant again?
You can become fertile again before your first period returns. If you are not breastfeeding, ovulation can happen as early as about three weeks after birth. If you are breastfeeding, it usually returns later, but the timing is unpredictable, so you cannot rely on not having a period.
Options after birth
- Condoms can be used at any time and have no effect on breastfeeding.
- The progestogen-only pill is suitable for most women, including those who are breastfeeding.
- The contraceptive implant is a small rod placed under the skin of the arm. It lasts for years and is suitable while breastfeeding.
- The contraceptive injection is given every few months and may be used while breastfeeding.
- An intrauterine device (IUD or coil) can be fitted either within about 48 hours of birth in some places, or after about four weeks. It can be copper or hormonal, and lasts for years.
- Permanent options such as sterilisation, for those who are sure they do not want more children.
Methods with oestrogen
The combined pill, patch and vaginal ring contain oestrogen, which can increase the risk of blood clots in the weeks after birth and may affect milk supply. They are usually not recommended in the first six weeks, and doctors often advise waiting longer if you are breastfeeding or have other risk factors for clots. Ask your doctor what is suitable for you.
What about breastfeeding as contraception?
The lactational amenorrhoea method can work, but only if all three of these are true: your baby is under six months old, you are feeding only breast milk day and night with no gaps or other foods, and your periods have not returned. If any of these change, you need another method.
Emergency contraception
If you have had unprotected sex, emergency contraception is available. Ask a pharmacist or doctor, since the right option depends on how long it has been since the birth and whether you are breastfeeding.
Planning the next baby
Many health organisations recommend leaving at least 18 to 24 months between a birth and the next pregnancy to give your body time to recover. You can talk about contraception before leaving the hospital, with your midwife or health visitor, or at your six-week check.
Trusted resources to read next
These public health resources provide additional information. Guidance can vary by country, so prioritise advice from your own care team and local health service.
- NHS: Your body after the birth — Postnatal recovery and symptoms that need medical attention.
- NHS: Early days — Information about early newborn care and postnatal support.
This content is for general information only and is not medical advice. Every pregnancy and every baby is different. Always talk to your doctor, midwife or paediatrician about your own situation, and seek urgent care if you are worried.