Written by the Progyny Editorial Team. Reviewed by the Progyny Clinical Team - September 2026.
After giving birth, birth control might not be your top priority. You'll be busy adjusting to life with your new baby and focusing on your recovery.
Before you do give birth, you may want to think about your future family-building goals. Why? You may want to become pregnant again soon or wait a few years. You may be unsure about future pregnancies or feel your family is complete.
Choosing a birth control method now can help you plan your next steps.
Why postpartum birth control matters
You can become pregnant again sooner than you may think. You ovulate before menstruation, which means you can get pregnant before your first postpartum period.
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If you are not breastfeeding (also known as chestfeeding), ovulation can return within a few weeks.
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If you are breastfeeding, ovulation may be delayed, but it can still return shortly after delivery.
Experts generally recommend waiting at least 6 months, and ideally 18 months, between pregnancies. The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) notes that spacing them out allows time for recovery. It may also support healthier pregnancy outcomes in the next pregnancy.
Choosing your method
Breastfeeding and birth control
If you are breastfeeding, your body may suppress ovulation with what's called the "lactational amenorrhea method" (LAM). According to ACOG, this method can be an effective temporary form of birth control. LAM can work if:
- Your baby is younger than 6 months
- You only breastfeed (or mostly breastfeed)
- You feed your baby often, including overnight
- Your period has not returned
If any of these factors change, you'll need another form of birth control. This method may not provide reliable long-term pregnancy prevention. That's because you may ovulate before your first postpartum period
Long-acting reversible contraception
If you're looking for highly effective, low-maintenance birth control, an intrauterine device (IUD) or contraceptive implant may be a good fit.
IUD
An IUD is a small device placed in the uterus. Hormonal IUDs release progestin, while copper IUDs contain no hormones. Either one can be placed immediately after delivery or at a postpartum visit.
Benefits include:
- More than 99% effectiveness
- Long-lasting, reversible protection
- No daily maintenance
- Quick return to fertility after removal
Birth control implant
The implant is a small rod inserted under the skin of your upper arm that releases progestin over time. You can get one immediately after a vaginal birth or C-section.
Benefits include:
- More than 99% effectiveness
- Long-lasting, reversible protection
- No daily action required
Both ACOG and international contraception guidelines recognize IUDs and implants as safe and effective.
Birth control pills, patches, and rings
Combined hormonal methods contain estrogen and progestin and work primarily by preventing ovulation. These methods can offer benefits beyond pregnancy prevention. Benefits like lighter periods, fewer cramps, and improved acne for some people.
However, estrogen can increase the risk of blood clots. This risk is already elevated during the postpartum period.
If you are not breastfeeding and have no other risk factors, you may be able to start these methods about 3 weeks after childbirth. If you are breastfeeding, your healthcare provider will typically tell you to wait until 4 to 6 weeks after you give birth.
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Progestin-only methods: These methods do not contain estrogen and are often a good option during the postpartum period. Timing varies by method.
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Progestin-only pills: These pills are available immediately after childbirth. Research suggests they generally do not affect milk production, infant growth, or development.
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Combination birth control methods: These methods contain estrogen and a progestin. They are not safe to use immediately after delivery. Timing must be individualized based on breastfeeding status, VTE risk, and overall health.
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Birth control injection: The birth control shot can start shortly after delivery, and it's given every three months.
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Barrier methods: These methods include condoms and spermicides, which you can use immediately after childbirth. You can use diaphragms, cervical caps, and contraceptive sponges about six weeks postpartum.
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Permanent birth control: If you are sure that you don't want another pregnancy, permanent contraception is possible. Options include vasectomy and removing or ligating the fallopian tubes (getting your tubes tied).
Questions to ask your provider
Choosing a birth control method is a personal decision. Your provider can help you find an option that matches your health needs and family-building goals. Consider asking:
- How soon after giving birth can I start using this method?
- Is this option compatible with breastfeeding?
- How effective is this method at preventing pregnancy?
- How soon can I get pregnant after stopping it?
- What side effects should I expect?
- Are there any risks based on my medical history or pregnancy complications?
- What should I do if I experience side effects or change my mind?
Key takeaways
You have a lot of safe and effective birth control options after pregnancy. The right choice depends on your health, lifestyle, breastfeeding plans, and family-building goals. Talk to your provider about what's best for you.
If you have questions, Progyny is here for you. Please contact your Progyny Care Advocate for support.
Disclaimer: The information provided by Progyny is for educational purposes only and is not medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare provider for medical guidance.