Ask the doctor: Is placing an IUD immediately after delivery safe?

Ask the doctor

Published: November, 2016

placing an IUD after delivery
Image: PrimeTime_Productions/iStock

Q. My daughter's first baby is due soon, and she doesn't plan to have another child for several years. Her doctor recommended placing an IUD immediately after she delivers her baby. I've never heard of this. Is it safe?

A. Her doctor is up to date! I counsel all of my pregnant patients about the option of immediate postpartum birth control in the form of an IUD or an implant in an arm—both of which are long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARC). Immediate postpartum contraception refers to placement of a LARC in the period between delivery of a baby and the time a new mother leaves the hospital.

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