Fertility and sexual activity can resume shortly after childbirth therefore the early initiation of effective postpartum contraception is important to prevent an unintended pregnancy. An inter-pregnancy interval of at least 12 months is recommended to reduce the risk of obstetric and neonatal complications. Most methods of contraception can be safely initiated immediately after childbirth, including the most effective long-acting methods such as the implant and intrauterine contraception. The antenatal period presents a unique opportunity to counsel women about the full range of contraceptive options so that the method chosen by the woman can be initiated after delivery. This reduces the need for additional postnatal visits to discuss and provide contraception, which may be difficult for mothers to attend. Maternity care providers are ideally placed to deliver a postpartum contraceptive service and should receive appropriate training to ensure knowledge and skills in this area are maintained.