You can get started with Natural Cycles at any point after pregnancy but you will only be given red days until your first ovulation is confirmed. The timing of your first ovulation post-birth can vary widely from person to person and often depends on if you’re breastfeeding or not.
In this article, we have described a few such scenarios and how to get started with Natural Cycles again after pregnancy, so that you can make an informed decision about what works for you. Click on the heading to get to the section most relevant to you.
I'm breastfeeding and using this as birth control (LAM)I'm not using breastfeeding as birth control and my period is not back yet My period is back and I’m ready to get started again
I’m breastfeeding and using this as birth control (LAM)
Breastfeeding can inhibit ovulation and can serve as an effective method of contraception postpartum – this method is called the lactational amenorrhea method (LAM). The word “lactational” means “related to breastfeeding,” and “amenorrhea” means “not having menstrual bleeding.”
To be able to use LAM, all of the following criteria must be met:*
- You are fully or nearly fully breastfeeding
- You have not gotten your period back since giving birth
- You gave birth less than six months ago
*Please consult your healthcare professional if you’re uncertain about whether these criterias apply to you.
LAM is 98% effective against pregnancy (2 out of 100 women using LAM will get pregnant during the six months it can be used).
Please note that if you use NC° Birth Control during this time, you will only be given red days until your first ovulation is confirmed. The timing of your first ovulation post-birth can vary widely from person to person and often depends on if you are breastfeeding or not.
I'm not using breastfeeding as birth control and my period is not back yet
This scenario applies if you’re not breastfeeding full-time or if your child is older than six months, but you still haven’t gotten your first period after the pregnancy.
It’s very individual how long it takes for your period to return after pregnancy, even if you’re not breastfeeding full-time. For some, the first period returns within a few months, and for others, it can take over a year.
If you use NC° Birth Control, you will only receive red days until your first ovulation is detected. If you measure your temperature during this time, you will see when your first ovulation occurs and when you can expect your first period.
My period is back and I’m ready to get started again
The first few cycles after pregnancy may be irregular, so keep measuring while your body is working to get back to regular. If your cycle is irregular, you can expect to be given more red days as a precaution.
Learn more about how to log a pregnancy and how to use the app after a pregnancy here.
This information is provided for educational purposes only and is not intended to replace the advice of your healthcare professional. Please consult your healthcare professional for more information.