While contraception may not be top of mind during pregnancy, this is a good time to start thinking about your options for after your baby arrives.

It is possible to become pregnant again as early as three weeks after giving birth. If you would like to delay or avoid another pregnancy, choosing a contraception method before your baby is born can help you feel prepared and give you one less thing to think about afterwards.

Allowing 12 to 24 months between pregnancies gives your body time to recover and can help support a healthier future pregnancy.

From 21 days after birth, you may be at risk of becoming pregnant again, so it is worth exploring the contraception options that are available to you, including methods that can be started immediately after birth.

Find out more about your contraception choices after pregnancy

Watch the short video below, produced by Bristol NHS Foundation Trust:

Having a planned caesarean birth?

If you are having a planned caesarean section, you may be able to have a contraceptive coil (IUD or IUS) fitted during the procedure. This is a safe and convenient option for many women and means your contraception is in place straight away.

Find out more and speak to your midwife about whether this option is right for you.