For people who have had a high-risk pregnancy or who have certain health conditions, starting a birth control method is encouraged as soon as possible after having a baby.

What is postpartum birth control?

The “postpartum period” is generally considered to be the first 6 weeks after having a baby. Using a birth control method during this time has many benefits for all women but especially for women who have had a high-risk pregnancy.

What is a high-risk pregnancy?

A pregnancy is considered to be high-risk if you have any of the following:

• You have certain medical conditions before you become pregnant.

• You get sick while you are pregnant, such as with an infection or other illness.

• You’ve had past pregnancy problems, such as preterm birth, preeclampsia, or fetal growth problems.

• You find out that your fetus has a birth defect or other health problem during pregnancy or after delivery.

Why is using postpartum birth control important for women who have had a high-risk pregnancy?

An unintended pregnancy soon after a high-risk pregnancy can make an existing medical condition worse or lead to health problems for your baby that may last into childhood. If there is a chance you could get pregnant again after you have just had your baby—in other words, if you have unprotected sex with a male partner—using birth control is a good idea. It’s possible to get pregnant as early as 25 days after having a baby. Waiting at least 6 and up to 18 months before getting pregnant again gives you a chance to become as healthy as possible. If you don’t want to have more children, using birth control helps you avoid pregnancy altogether.

What is the best time to start a birth control method after having a baby?

For women who have had a high-risk pregnancy or who have certain health conditions, starting a birth control method is encouraged as soon as possible after having a baby. Although it’s common to have a check-up 6 weeks after delivery, in reality, many women have sexual intercourse before this visit. Many forms of birth control can be started in the delivery room or while you are still in the hospital. If that’s not possible, starting a method as soon as you can after you are discharged is the next best option.

What is the best time to choose a postpartum birth control method?

A good time to choose the birth control method you will use after pregnancy is while you are still pregnant. Prenatal care visits are a great time to talk about birth control.

How do I choose a birth control method?

The best birth control method for you is one that you are comfortable using, is effective at preventing pregnancy, fits your re-productive plan, and helps you stay healthy. It’s also a good idea to be as informed as possible about all of the methods out there. There are a lot of birth control options to choose from:

Here are some things you may want to consider:

• Do you want a “set it and forget it method,” or do you want to be able to control when you use it?

• Does the method you use need to be invisible to a partner?

• Do you need a method that doesn’t need the cooperation of a partner?

• Do you want a monthly period?

• Do you want an almost foolproof method?

• Do you want the most effective method out there?

• Should the method be reversible (do you want to be able to stop the method if you want to become pregnant)?

• Or do you want a permanent method?

Discuss your needs with your health care provider. Together, you can choose a method that’s the best fit for both your preferences and your health condition.