Postabortal and postpartum contraception
Cameron, S.
Best Practice and Research. Clinical Obstetrics and Gynaecology 28(6): 871-880
2014
ISSN/ISBN: 1532-1932 PMID: 24951405 DOI: 10.1016/j.bpobgyn.2014.05.007Document Number: 625913
Healthcare providers often underestimate a woman' need for immediate effective contraception after an abortion or childbirth. Yet, these are times when women may be highly motivated to avoid or delay another pregnancy. In addition, starting the most effective long-acting reversible methods (i.e. the intrauterine device, intrauterine system or implants) at these times, is safe, with low risk of complications. Good evidence shows that women choosing long-acting reversible contraceptives at the time of an abortion are at significantly lower risk of another abortion, compared with counterparts choosing other methods. Uptake of long-acting reversible methods postpartum can also prevent short inter-pregnancy intervals, which have negative consequences for maternal and child health. It is important, therefore, that providers of abortion and maternity care are trained and funded to be able to provide these methods for women immediately after an abortion or childbirth.