Contraception after childbirth

Those first few weeks and months after giving birth can be a whirlwind for any new mum as you find your feet. The physical recovery, the rollercoaster of emotions as hormones shift, the disruption to sleep… So you might think it odd when your GP asks you about contraception. But whilst everyone is different and there is no set time you should feel physically and emotionally ready to return to having sex, it’s never too early to start thinking about contraception.

Fertility after giving birth

You can get pregnant in as little as three weeks after giving birth, even if you’re breastfeeding and your periods haven’t started again. It is therefore important to speak to your GP about your contraception choices.

Some methods may be suitable to use straight after birth, and other methods may require you to wait several weeks before commencing. For example, if you’re breastfeeding you’ll usually be advised to wait until at least six weeks after the birth of your baby before starting the combined pill, contraceptive patch or the coil.

A popular choice

The coil is a popular choice for many women, according to the UK government Women’s Reproductive Health Survey. Advantages of the coil include:

• Highly effective: Studies show the coil to be 99% effective in preventing pregnancies.
• Long-lasting: The coil can stay in place and provide protection for several years.
• Convenient: There’s no need to remember to take a daily pill or worry about running out of condoms.
• Reversible: If and when you decide you’d like to try for a baby, the coil can be removed and fertility will return to normal.

Could the coil be right for you?

There are two types of coil – both are highly effective and reliable forms of contraception.

1. The intrauterine contraceptive device (IUCD): Also known as the copper coil, this sits inside the uterus and works by preventing sperm from entering the cervix and from travelling through the uterus. It also makes your uterus lining much less likely to accept an egg.
2. The intrauterine system (IUS): Also known as the hormonal coil, this contains progestogen which thickens the mucus in the cervix, forming a plug to stop sperm from getting through to fertilise an egg. The hormone also makes the lining of the uterus much thinner, making it unlikely a fertilised egg will be able to implant.

If you’re unsure which coil would be most suitable for you, it’s best to talk through all the pros and cons of each option with your GP.

Coil fitting at YourGP

Our highly experienced GPs are able to fit coils in our two Edinburgh practices. The process usually involves an initial consultation, followed by a vaginal examination, then the insertion of the coil.

The procedure can be a little uncomfortable and some women experience cramping similar to period pain for a few hours afterwards. However, our GPs will provide you with aftercare advice on how best to manage any side effects. They’ll also advise how you can check the coil at home to ensure it remains in place.

Book your appointment

If you would like to speak to a medical professional about all your contraceptive options, book an appointment at YourGP using our simple online booking system, email reception@your.gp, or call us on 0131 225 5656 and we’ll be happy to arrange an appointment at a time that suits you.