Post-Partum Contraception

Question 1

when is the first day a women can get pregnant after giving birth?

Answer 1

day 21

Question 2

when can the progestogen-only pill be started post-partum?

Answer 2

• any time postpartum
• if started after day 21 –> additional contraception should be used for the first 2 days

Question 3

does progestogen-only pill affect breast milk?

Answer 3

enters breast milk but is not harmful to the infant

Question 4

when is combined oral contraceptive pill contraindicated (UKMEC 4) after giving birth?

Answer 4

if breastfeeding <6 weeks post-partum

Question 5

can COCP be given within the first 21 days post-partum?

Answer 5

no
due to increased VTE risk post-partum

Question 6

when can COCP be given in post-partum women?

Answer 6

if breastfeeding 6 weeks - 6 months

UKMEC 2

Question 7

why is COCP not given within the first 21 days following delivery?

Answer 7

increased venous thromboembolism risk post-partum

Question 8

does COCP affect breast milk?

Answer 8

may reduce breast milk production

Question 9

when can IUD be inserted post-partum?

Answer 9

• within 48 hours
• after 4 weeks

Question 10

what is the criteia for successful lactational amenorrhoea contraceptive method?

Answer 10

• fully breast-feeding
• amenorrhoeic
• <6 months post-partum

Question 11

what duration of time is recommended between childbirth and conceiving again?

Answer 11

12 months

Question 12

what are the risks of conceiving within the 12 months of a previous delivery?

Answer 12

• increased risk of pre-term
• low birth weight
• small for gestational age