20.5.1 When to start family planning
Post-abortion family planning services need to be initiated almost immediately, because fertility returns quickly: within two weeks after a first-trimester abortion or miscarriage, and within four weeks after a second trimester abortion or miscarriage. All women receiving post-abortion care need counselling and information to insure they understand that they can become pregnant again before their next menstrual period, and that there are safe contraceptive methods to prevent or delay pregnancy.
If a woman wants to become pregnant again soon, encourage her to wait. Waiting at least six months after a spontaneous or induced abortion may reduce the chances of having a low birth weight or premature baby and the mother developing anaemia.
In the next study session, you will build on what you have learned in this study session when we describe the causes of bleeding in late pregnancy and how to manage this emergency situation.
20.5 Post-abortion family planning