After a miscarriage, fertility can return even before your first period. If you wish to avoid another pregnancy for the time being, it is worth finding out about suitable contraceptive options at an early stage. Which method is suitable depends, amongst other things, on the course of the miscarriage, any treatment you may have had and your personal circumstances.
If you do not wish to become pregnant again straight away after a miscarriage, or have been advised not to conceive immediately, the question of suitable contraception often arises early on. Which method is suitable depends, amongst other things, on the course of the miscarriage, any treatment you may have received and your personal preferences. There is no one-size-fits-all recommendation – the choice should be tailored to your individual situation.
As well as medical considerations, a miscarriage can also be emotionally distressing for women and couples. Many people affected wish to take time to recover physically and emotionally before planning another pregnancy.
After a miscarriage, ovulation can resume after just a short time. It is not possible to predict exactly when this will happen. The timing depends, amongst other things, on how far along the pregnancy was, whether it ended spontaneously or was medically managed, and how your physical recovery is progressing.
Important to know: Ovulation takes place before menstruation. Therefore, it is possible to become pregnant even before your first period after the miscarriage begins.
If you are not planning a pregnancy, it may be wise to find out about suitable contraception at an early stage.
Depending on your health situation, you can choose either hormonal or non-hormonal options. Non-hormonal options include condoms and the diaphragm. Furthermore, long-acting contraceptive methods, such as copper or hormonal IUDs, are not suitable if you are planning to try for another pregnancy soon.
A suitable option here is a method that is easy to start using and reversible, such as a diaphragm or condoms.
The diaphragm is a non-hormonal barrier method and is always used in conjunction with a suitable diaphragm gel. It forms a barrier over the cervix, mechanically preventing sperm from entering the uterus.
When using the diaphragm, you should follow the instructions for use and, where applicable, the advice given by your healthcare provider.
You can find more information in our articles:
What is a diaphragm?
Who is a diaphragm suitable for?
Differences from other methods of contraception
Depending on the course of events and treatment, a follow-up check-up with a doctor may be advisable. Please follow the recommendations of your healthcare provider.
Regardless of the method of contraception you have chosen, you should seek medical advice if
This allows any potential complications to be identified at an early stage and the next steps to be planned together.
Yes. As ovulation takes place before your period, it is possible to become pregnant during the first cycle following a miscarriage.
This depends on your physical recovery, any symptoms you may have and the treatment you’ve received. If you experience bleeding, pain or signs of infection, you should seek medical advice first.
Generally speaking, non-hormonal options are preferable. Which method is right for you depends on your health and your future family planning.
This depends on how well you’ve healed and the recommendations of your healthcare provider. If you’re unsure, seek personalised advice.
In most cases, a single miscarriage does not lead to a permanent reduction in fertility. In the event of recurrent miscarriages or if you have questions about having children, it is advisable to seek gynaecological and fertility counselling.
Following a miscarriage, various non-hormonal contraceptive options are available. Which method is suitable depends on your future family planning.
The diaphragm can be a non-hormonal contraceptive option. Its use depends on following the instructions for use and ensuring correct positioning. If you experience any discomfort or are unsure, you should contact your healthcare provider.
Note: No contraceptive method offers complete protection against pregnancy. The reliability of a contraceptive method depends, amongst other things, on its correct and consistent use.
