How soon can I take birth control after a pregnancy?

If your pregnancy ended in a miscarriage or an abortion in the first trimester, you can start birth control right away.

If you just had a baby, the type of birth control you take determines when you can start it:

• Combined hormone pills, the ring, or the patch: you should wait about 3 weeks to start these types of birth control. Sometimes our doctors may recommend you wait longer, depending on your medical history.
• Progestin-only pills: you can start these pills at any time after giving birth.

If you're breastfeeding, let us know. Typically, progestin-only pills are recommended for nursing mothers, but it's also possible to take other types of birth control without affecting your breastmilk. Your doctor will make a recommendation that's right for you and your baby.