It’s probably not the first thing on your mind after the birth of your baby: contraceptives. You will ovulate before experiencing your first postnatal menstruation. This means you can conceive even before you’ve had a period. There is no telling when exactly you will be fertile after giving birth which is why is important to consider which contraceptive method is suitable for you.

There are several types of contraceptives available. There are several factors in determining which is best suited to your situation, including breastfeeding, and if you are planning to conceive again in the near future.

Are you nursing? You are not protected against a new pregnancy. For breastfeeding mothers, an intrauterine device (IUD), condoms and the mini pill are good options. If you are not breastfeeding, there are several additional options. You can then choose the birth control pill, an IUD, the Nuvaring, Implanon, condoms or monitoring your temperature.

An intrauterine device (IUD) is a reliable form of birth control. There are two types of IUD: the hormonal IUD and the non-hormonal version, the copper IUD. An IUD is an excellent form of birth control for nursing mothers. You can have your IUD inserted right here at Femme Amsterdam. We can also perform an ultrasound exam to ensure that your IUD has been placed correctly.

The mini pill, also known as Cerazette, contains less hormones than the regular birth control pill. It also does not influence the quality or quantity of breast milk. Not surprisingly, it is also referred to as the ‘breastfeeding pill’. This pill can also be continued after you are finished nursing. The pill must be taken daily, at a set time, for 28 days. When the strip is empty, you will begin a new strip without a week-long pause. This means you are not able to skip or move your menstruation. With use of the mini pill, your menstruation may change or stop altogether.

Barrier methods are temporary contraceptive devices which are inserted before having intercourse. The most well-known form is the condom. Additionally, the female condom and diaphragm are also widely used. The effectiveness of these methods strongly depends on correct usage. Even with correct use, these methods are less reliable than other contraceptives.

Implanon NXT is a small, thin rod that a physician implants in your upper arm. Once inserted, you are protected against pregnancy for 3 years. The implant releases a consistent dose of hormones and does not have a stop week. You therefore are unable to influence your menstruation.

With Natural Cycles you take your temperature each morning with a thermometer. You then enter your temperature into the Natural Cycles app. You are directly informed whether you are fertile that day and which phase of your cycle you are currently in. This allows you to determine whether you require protection to prevent pregnancy.

The birth control pill is the most widely used form of contraceptive in the Netherlands. The pill is available in many types and brands and is highly reliable. The birth control pill contains the hormones estrogen and progesterone. These hormones prevent ovulation. They also thicken cervical mucus to inhibit sperm cells thus preventing an egg from implanting in the uterine wall. Are you breastfeeding? The birth control pill is not suitable as it can reduce milk production.

The NuvaRing is a soft, flexible ring that you can insert yourself. You cannot feel the ring once inserted, and it cannot fall out. You can still conduct activities such as exercise and swimming. The NuvaRing is a monthly contraceptive method which contains the hormones estrogen and etonogestrel. With this ring you can postpone your menstruation.