The health visitor hoped that the doctor would agree to put a coil in with the baby only four weeks old. At least the lochia had stopped and, fortunately, Linda had no record of pelvic infection. The coil might be expelled or Linda might bleed, and there was a higher risk of perforation, but the doctor was skilled. Most important of all, Linda knew she had been allowed to choose and even if it was not the ideal method, it was the only one acceptable to her.
For many women, however, the commonest means of contraception before the six week postnatal visit is abstinence. It is possible that those who do resume intercourse do so for reasons other than their own sexual desire. Some will do so to please their partner. When intercourse has not been possible for a time previously, he may need reassurance that he is still loved and needed despite the advent of the new baby.
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