Contraception after pregnancy: Making the right choices

Abstract

The postpartum period is a high-risk time for unintended pregnancy. Increasing access to postpartum contraception should reduce this risk. Unintended pregnancy may lead to abortion or miscarriage, but if the pregnancy continues and has been conceived within 12 months of a previous delivery, a short inter-pregnancy interval will occur. Short inter-pregnancy intervals are associated with a higher risk of negative consequences for the baby such as preterm birth and neonatal death. Most contraceptive methods can be safely initiated after childbirth, and immediate provision from within maternity services has significant advantages. Women should receive accurate information about available methods during the antenatal and postpartum periods, as well as the risks of unintended and short inter-pregnancy intervals. This can support informed decision-making about future reproductive intentions with better outcomes for mothers and babies. Hospital and community services can work together to increase the provision of contraceptive services after pregnancy.