Problem: You’re Worried About Getting Pregnant Again
Solution: Find the right contraceptive
It’s understandable if the thought of getting knocked up right now fills you with more fear than the plot of the last Saw movie. If you’re relying on breastfeeding for birth control, you’re right to be on edge; it’s not a reliable method.
“People think that because they have no period when they’re breastfeeding, they can’t get pregnant, which isn’t true,” says gynecologist Dr. Nancy Durand. “The first ovulation will happen before the first period so it is a concern.”
While the oral contraceptive pill, the patch and the vaginal ring can be used while breastfeeding, many women want to avoid hormonal contraception and use condoms instead, says Dr. Durand.
If you know you don’t want any more children, an IUD (intrauterine device) is another option. “A lot of people are using them again and they’re safe as long as you know there are no STIs in your relationship,” adds Dr. Durand.
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