Introduction: Contraception refers to the prevention of unintended pregnancy through various methods and devices, closely linked to reproductive health and rights. Purpose: This study aims to compare postpartum contraception in Slovenia and the United States of America, highlighting key similarities and differences in the accessibility and use of contraceptive methods during the postpartum period. Methods: A descriptive research method was used, based on a literature review. Sources were obtained from domestic databases (COBIB) and international databases (Medline/PubMed, Science Direct, Cinahl) via the COBISS and DiKul systems, as well as the Google Scholar platform. The reviewed literature was available in full-text format to users of the University of Ljubljana Library and free of charge. The selected literature was published between 2014 and 2024 and written in Slovenian or English, using the following search terms: poporodna kontracepcija OR kontracepcijske metode po porodu / postpartum contraception OR contraceptive methods after birth; reproduktivno zdravje po porodu OR poporodno obdobje / reproductive health postpartum OR time after birth. Results: Research on postpartum contraception reveals numerous challenges in choosing and accessing methods, including insufficient counseling, inadequate health insurance, and administrative or medical barriers. In Slovenia, emergency and natural contraception are relatively accessible, but access to modern methods—such as intrauterine devices (IUDs) and sterilization—is often hindered by bureaucratic procedures and long waiting periods. In the United States, despite a wider range of available methods, access is frequently restricted by high costs and insurance requirements. In both countries, long-acting reversible contraception (LARC) methods are recommended as the most effective options postpartum, yet their actual use remains limited due to systemic and social barriers. Discussion and conclusion: A comparison of postpartum contraceptive access and use in Slovenia and the United States reveals significant differences, particularly regarding access to modern methods and the quality of counseling. Slovenia faces limitations due to the need for medical consultations, while in the U.S., access is largely determined by insurance coverage. Both systems could improve access by enhancing counseling services and reducing barriers to contraceptive care.
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