Postpartum Ovulation & Pregnancy Risk: What to Expect

Question
How soon after childbirth can you start ovulating?  Is there risk of pregnancy to have unprotected sex at 4 weeks?  My doctor gave the ok for intercourse at 4 weeks, but I took a mini pill late.  I am nursing, but don't produce much milk so I have to supplement every feeding with formula.  Thank you.

Answer
Ruth,

There is a risk of pregnancy every time you have unprotected sex, even at 4 weeks postpartum.  

This is true even if you are nursing.  You can ovulate before getting a postpartum period.

It's very difficult to track ovulation after recently giving birth due to fluctuating hormones and lack of sleep.  This is especially true when breastfeeding - you may ovulate one month and skip the next.

For these reasons, it's important to practice some form of birth control to avoid getting pregnant again sooner than planned.

Best,
Catherine