The short, practical answer is: In principle, you can become pregnant again as soon as ovulation returns, and this can happen before your first period after birth. Therefore, it makes sense to think about contraception early, especially if a new pregnancy is not in the plans right now. At the same time, there is a big difference from person to person, and breastfeeding, healing, and your birth experience can all affect the timing.

After birth, the body gradually begins its hormonal “restart.” For some, ovulation comes relatively early, while for others it takes longer, especially if they are breastfeeding. The important thing in practice is that ovulation can come without warning, because the first ovulation often occurs before the first bleeding.

If you want to avoid a quick pregnancy, "I haven't had my period yet" is not a safe strategy. Instead, talk to a doctor or midwife about a contraception plan that suits you, and consider starting before you resume sexual activity.

Yes, you can. The reason is simple: Menstruation is the body's sign that ovulation has already occurred. So, if ovulation comes first, a pregnancy can occur before you even realize your cycle is back.

If you don't want to get pregnant, assume that pregnancy can happen before you see your first period, and use contraception when you resume sexual activity.

For some, breastfeeding can postpone ovulation and menstruation, but it is not a guarantee. The risk of pregnancy can still be there, especially if breastfeeding changes (longer breaks, fewer night feedings, supplementary bottles or solid food). The safe part here is therefore not to "rely" on breastfeeding as contraception, unless you have received specific guidance on a method that suits your situation.

Consider getting contraception clarified early, so you don't have to guess when fertility will return.

When you can get pregnant and when it is smart to plan a new pregnancy are two different things. Many will benefit from giving their body time to heal, get sleep (more or less), and settle into the new daily routine before trying again. There are recommendations for waiting time between pregnancies, but these can vary depending on your health situation and what happened during childbirth, so have it assessed individually by a doctor or midwife.

If you have had a C-section, major tears, heavy bleeding, complications, or postpartum reactions, a conversation about timing is especially relevant before you plan your next pregnancy.

There are several options, even if you are breastfeeding. Which solution is best depends, among other things, on breastfeeding, any stitches/pain, bleeding, mood, and how you feel about hormones. A practical next step is to book an appointment for contraception counseling so you can get a plan that matches your body and your wishes.

In the first period after childbirth, the body can feel sore and vulnerable. If you also want to make everyday life a little easier, a comprehensive postpartum package with hygiene and care products can be nice to have ready, e.g., New Mum Care Pack. This will not change your fertility, but it can make the period more manageable while you get contraception and planning under control.

Sources for general background knowledge: Profemina (pregnant again after birth) and Ammenet.dk (pregnancy and breastfeeding) as well as international health resources such as Medical News Today. This article cannot replace personal advice from a doctor or midwife.