Birth Control for After Pregnancy

Sterilization Procedures: Vasectomy, Tubal Ligation, or salpingectomy ⁶

Note: Must be 21 years or older
(18 for a vasectomy).

Your Choices: Copper IUD, Natural Family Planning Methods and Barrier Methods* ⁸

Do Not Use: Hormone Based Methods such as: Hormonal IUD, Implant, Depo Injection, POPs, Vaginal Ring,^‡ and the Patch^‡

Note: The hormones in some methods of birth control are similar enough that the body recognizes them as estrogen and progesterone. If you have had a bad experience with one hormonal birth control, other hormonal options may still work well for you. However, it is your personal choice to avoid methods that contain hormones. ³

Your Choices: Progestin-only Pills (POPs), the Implant, most IUDs, the Depo Injection,** Barrier methods,* and Natural Family Planning Methods ⁸

Do Not Use: Combined Oral Contraceptives (COCs), Vaginal Ring,^‡ and the Patch^‡

Note: Birth Control that contains hormones (progesterone and estrogen) can reduce milk supply so COCs, Vaginal Rings and the Patch are not recommended as the best options for those who are nursing. ⁹

All Birth Control options are acceptable ⁸

Note: There is no known link between anti-depressants and birth control effectiveness, so all birth control options are considered a safe and effective option. ⁵

Your Choices: Hormonal IUDs and the Implant ⁸

Do Not Use: Oral contraceptive pills (including POPs and COCs)

Note: It is important to talk with your doctor about the best birth control method for you.

Examples include seizures, heart disease IBS, high blood pressure, lupus and history of fibroids.

Your Choices: Hormonal IUDs, Progestin-only Pills (POPs) Depo injection,** and Combined Oral Contraceptives (COCs) (8)

Do Not Use: Copper IUDs

Note: The effects of birth control on your period may vary with the use of IUDs, the Depo Injection, and the implant. ⁴

Your Choices: Copper IUD, POPs, Depo Injection,** and the Implant (8)

Do Not Use: COCs, Vaginal Ring,^‡ and the Patch^‡

Note: Nicotine increases the risk of blood clots and increases heart rate so any birth control containing estrogen should be avoided, especially if you are over the age of 35. ⁶

Your Choices: Copper and Hormonal IUDs, the Implant, Depo Injection,** Progesting-only Pills (POPs)

Do Not Use: COCs, Vaginal Ring,^‡ and the Patch^‡

Note: Marijuana may increase blood pressure and heart rate, so any birth control containing estrogen should be avoided. ⁷