2 week old newborn... Birth control question?

Question

My new baby is 2 weeks old. My next appointment with my OB/GYN is in 4 more weeks. At this appt, she wants to talk about birth control. So far I cannot decide on a method. I don't want to use any hormones, so no pills, patches or shots. My husband and I both dislike barrier methods, so no condoms or diaphragms. I cannot stand gels or douches, no spermicide or suchlike... The intrauterine device is OUT.

We actually want to have more children, LOTS more, we don't mind how soon. I'm young, healthy and fertile. I've already bounced back from pregnancy and a natural delivery. I'm breastfeeding my baby.

HOW do I politely tell my OB that I am not really able to decide on a method of birth control? Or, should I say I'm going to try something like "the rythm method" or "the Billings method" etc. etc., should I just lie and say we're using condoms? Then in two months "Oops, the contraception failed?"

I mean, I want another baby... Shouldn't have to justify it to the doc?

Answer 1

Do not lie to your doctor. At your next exam she will tell you if you are physically able to have children right away. Since you are breast feeding it might take a while anyway. I opted against the pill at my last check up and I don't remember her questioning me about my decision. Good luck and happy parenting.

Answer 2

I've had two boys both over 9lb and both have fed every 2-3 hours day and night for the first few months. Sometimes a dummy (pacifier) will hold them off for a bit longer, but a lot of people don't like using them. Some people say the boys like to "comfort suck", which is what I think mine have done, but also I think it is because they are both strapping young lads. My first didn't "sleep through" until 7 months and my second is only 4 months old and feeds usually 3 times in a night. I'm afraid it is just something some mothers have to "grin and bear" for a few months. All I can tell you is that while it feels like it will never end now, you'll be looking back in months to come thinking how fast it has all gone, and it won't seem so bad. I wouldn't recommend any rice cereal (or any other solid) just yet. Research shows that you are putting your baby at risk of many ailments by starting solids too early. It is very hard in those early days with the sleep deprevation and the constantness of being a new mum!

Answer 3

Don't lie to the doctor. Just because you "feel" like you've bounced back, doesn't mean that your doctor shouldn't be aware of your intentions so that he/she can be sure you're currently capable of enduring another pregnancy so soon after giving birth. (And to make sure there are no other complications with your health)

There is a lot involved with hormones and such that you probably don't even realize. By not being honest, you could be putting yourself in a position to miscarry a pregnancy or have other complications.

I, also, thought I was young healthy and fertile...having had a baby at age 20. Then I was diagnosed with cancer at age 24. You should look at the entire picture (do you have plans for who will take care of your children in the event of an accident or death, are you financially secure, can your relationship withstand another addition to the family so soon...etc) not just wanting "many" babies and not liking using bc. Both of those reasons seem terribly childish and immature for someone that wants to raise a family.

Answer 4

All OB's talk birth control at the 6 week check-up because that is the soonest you can start birth control after having a baby. When he asks just tell him the truth. He can then tell you ways in which to space your children so that you are in optimum health for your next pregnancy. Breast feeding is a good method of natural birth control. I don't know why but it has something to do with the naturally occurring hormones necessary to breast feed. He also might recommend a vitamin routine to help you be in the best of health. Never lie to your doctor just tell him you will see him soon. Congratulations on your new bundle of joy and I hope you have as many children as you want and that they are all happy and healthy.

Answer 5

If you and your husband want to have another baby, and when doesn't matter, then that's really up to you and him, not your doctor. I'm due in April, and we've decided against contraception after I have this baby. We already have a 3 year old who will be 4 when this one is born. I got an IUD after I had my daughter, I had it removed when she was 2, it took a while to get pregnant again. We want more as well, so no birth control this time. Like I said, it's your decision, not your doctor's.

Answer 6

I think your ob/gyn just wants to discuss the methods that are out there. If you tell him or her that you don't want to use birth control, that is your choice. They can't force you to take the pill or other method of birth control. All they can do is offer you their medical opinion. Just tell the doctor everything that you have placed in your question and see if there is something that they can offer you. Ultimately, it is your choice and your body.

Answer 7

I've only had doctors ask if I wanted a prescription for bcp and I politely answered "no". If he asks what sort of bc you are planning on using, I would just say, "My husband and I have that worked out" or even "I don't need any medical advice in that department". You don't need to justify your decisions to your dr. You may want to talk about optimal spacing of babies with your dr to make sure you are giving yourself enough time to rest in between, but that's up to you. I didn't use any bc after my first and I don't regret it one bit.

Answer 8

Be honest, why should you lie??? If you are planning on having another child in the near future, then just let her know and go from there. You're doctor will tell you what her professional opinion is, but if you choose not to listen to her, then there is nothing she can do.

Answer 9

I know this isn't what you are looking to hear, but in all honesty you really should wait at least 18 months before conceiving again. Research has shown that it is safest for mom and baby for you to wait the full 18 months before putting your body through the hardship of pregnancy and delivery. You say you have bounced back and that is great, but in all reality it takes well over a year for your body to truly be back to normal. Think about what pregnancy does to you and the strain it puts on your internal organs. Isn't it worth the wait for you and your baby's safety? Just something for you to think about before you make any big decisions.

Answer 10

You do not have to lie to your doctor. You just tell her that you and your husband are not sure yet if you want birth control. The doctor can't make you use birth control.