Premium
Postpartum contraception
Author(s) -
Cooper Michelle,
Cameron Sharon
Publication year - 2018
Publication title -
the obstetrician and gynaecologist
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
eISSN - 1744-4667
pISSN - 1467-2561
DOI - 10.1111/tog.12494
Subject(s) - medicine , childbirth , pregnancy , unintended pregnancy , obstetrics , fertility , long acting reversible contraception , postpartum period , family planning , gynecology , developed country , intrauterine device , population , family medicine , research methodology , environmental health , genetics , biology
Key content Sexual activity and fertility can resume shortly after childbirth, and therefore there is a risk of pregnancy unless contraception is initiated. Unintended pregnancy and short inter‐pregnancy intervals (of less than 1 year) can increase the risk of obstetric and neonatal complications. The antenatal and postpartum periods present a unique opportunity to discuss contraceptive options, many of which can be safely initiated immediately after childbirth. Training maternity staff in the provision of long‐acting reversible contraceptive insertion (implant and intrauterine devices) can overcome some of the barriers women experience in accessing these highly effective methods after leaving the birth unit.Learning objectives To understand the risks of unintended pregnancy and short inter‐pregnancy intervals. To understand the UK Medical Eligibility Criteria for the use of contraceptive methods in the postpartum period. To be up to date on the most common contraceptive methods and their use in the postpartum period. To be familiar with the technique of postpartum intrauterine contraception insertion. To appreciate the increasing role of maternity services in the discussion and provision of contraception after childbirth.