Expert: Norman Solberg - 7/28/2010

Question
Hi,
I don't really think this is the correct category, but i couldn't find one that it fitted into.
Anyway, i'm 17, and gave birth to my daughter 6 days ago. I was having regular periods throughout my pregnancy, which my doctor & midwife said it was fine.
I was reading online, that a girl can get pregnant straight after childbirth as soon as she starts ovulating again. I recently had a period, and unprotected sex. So, does this mean I can get pregnant again straight away. Also, is there a chance of pregnancy?

Thanks

Answer
Usually ovulation is delayed for a while after delivery, and you can't get pregnant until you ovulate.  If you're breastfeeding, ovulation usually doesn't occur until you start supplementing, in other words less than full time breastfeeding.  If you don't breastfeed, ovulation usually occurs about a month after delivery, although there's much variation.  In any case, it's wise to use some type of birth control unless you want to get pregnant again.  Since your daughter was born 6 days ago, I'm sure you aren't pregnant yet.  While full time breastfeeding, you don't need much, perhaps a little foam.  There are lots of other good choices, perhaps an IUD.