Training of Roma Health Mediators in Reproductive Health

Participant document
COUNSELING ON BIRTH SPACING AND FAMILY PLANNING
During postpartum visits, all women should be informed about family planning so that
they can consider their alternatives and make an informed choice. They should be
informed about the following:
A breastfeeding woman is protected from pregnancy only if:
• She is no more than 6 months postpartum, and
• She is breastfeeding exclusively (8 or more times a day, including at least once at
night; no daytime feeding more than 4 hours apart and no night feedings more than 6
hours apart; no complementary foods or fluids), and
• Her menstrual periods have not returned.
A breastfeeding woman can also choose other methods, either to use alone or together
with LAM.
Method options for breastfeeding women
• Can be used immediately after delivery:
o Lactational amenorrhoea method (LAM)
o Condoms
o Spermicides
o Female sterilization
o IUD
• At 6 weeks postpartum:
o Progestogen-only pills
o Progestogen injectable contraceptives
• At 6 months postpartum:
o Combined oral contraceptives
o Fertility awareness methods (if menstruation return after delivery)
Method options for non-breastfeeding woman
• Can be used immediately after delivery:
o Condoms
o Progestogen-only pills
o Progestogen injectable contraceptives
o Spermicides
o Female sterilization
o IUD
• At least 3 weeks postpartum:
o Combined oral contraceptives
o Fertility awareness methods (if menstruation return after delivery)
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RFHI/JSI Romania Training of RHMs in Reproductive Health Session 7: Postpartum Care