Fertility After Stopping Birth Control — What to Expect?

Birth control plays a crucial role in reproductive health, allowing individuals to plan pregnancies and manage menstrual cycles. However, discontinuing birth control is a significant step that can have various effects on the body, depending on the type of contraceptive method used.
Understanding the timing, potential changes, and what to expect after stopping birth control can help in making informed decisions and planning for the future.

When to stop birth control?

• The decision to stop using birth control is deeply personal and should be guided by individual goals, whether for conceiving, managing health conditions, or simply transitioning to a different method of contraception. 
• If you’re planning to conceive, it is wise to consult with a doctor to determine the best timing for discontinuing birth control. 
• Some methods, particularly hormonal ones, may require a few months for the body to return to its natural cycle, while others allow for immediate conception.

Book an appointment with our fertility specialists or gynaecologist at Thomson Medical for personalised recommendations. 

Are there any side effects of stopping birth control?

1) Barrier methods

• Barrier methods including condoms, diaphragms and cervical caps are non-hormonal forms of contraception. Pregnancy is possible immediately after stopping the use of these methods. In addition, there are no changes to the menstrual cycle when discontinuing barrier methods.
• While barrier methods are simple to discontinue, it is important to note that their effectiveness relies heavily on proper usage. If you plan to stop using barrier methods, be sure to have a backup plan in place if you are not intending to conceive.

2) Combination hormonal methods

• A combination of hormonal methods including birth control pills containing both oestrogen and progestin, hormonal patches and vaginal rings work by releasing hormones that suppress ovulation, altering the cervical mucus, and thinning the uterine lining. 
• Fertility usually returns quickly after stopping combination hormonal methods, though it can vary. Many women ovulate within a month or two, but it may take longer for others depending on how long they have used the method and their overall health.
• It is common to experience temporary changes in your menstrual cycle after discontinuing these methods. Your period may be irregular, heavier, or lighter than usual as your body adjusts to its natural hormonal cycle. For some women, it may take a few months before their periods return to their pre-contraceptive state.

After stopping combination hormonal methods, some women might experience side effects such as acne, mood swings, or changes in libido. Any fluctuations in weight and mood are usually minor and stabilise over time.

3) Progestin-only hormonal methods 

• Progestin-only methods include mini-pills containing only progestin, contraceptive injections and contraceptive implants that work by releasing hormones that thicken the cervical mucus and thinning the uterine lining, with some also suppressing ovulation. 
• For mini-pill users, fertility may return almost immediately. However, after discontinuing contraceptive injections, it may take up to a year or more for ovulation to resume.
• Irregular menstrual cycles are common after discontinuing progestin-only methods, particularly with injections. It can take several months for the menstrual cycle to normalise.

Some women may experience headaches, bloating, or breast tenderness after stopping progestin-only contraceptives. Mood changes are also possible but generally stabilise as hormone levels return to normal.

4) Intrauterine Devices (IUDs)

• Hormonal or copper IUDs are effective for several years but can be removed at any time if a woman wishes to conceive or switch methods. 
• Fertility can return immediately after the removal of both hormonal and copper IUDs. Ovulation typically resumes quickly, allowing for the possibility of pregnancy as soon as the device is removed.
• Removing a hormonal IUD may lead to temporary irregularities in the menstrual cycle, and periods may take a few months to return. Copper IUDs, however, do not affect hormones, so menstrual cycles should return to normal immediately after removal. 

Some women may experience cramping or spotting after IUD removal, but these symptoms are usually mild and resolve on their own.

When to seek medical advice?

After discontinuing birth control, most women transition smoothly back to their natural cycles and can conceive without issues. However, it is essential to seek medical advice if:

• You experience severe or prolonged symptoms, such as heavy bleeding, intense pain, or significant mood changes.
• Your menstrual cycle does not return to normal within six months.
• You have been trying to conceive for a year or more without success (or six months if you are over 35).
• You have any underlying health conditions that may be impacted by discontinuing birth control.

If you are considering starting or discontinuing your birth control, consult our fertility specialist or gynaecologist at Thomson Medical for personalised advice and support.

The information provided is intended for general guidance only and should not be considered medical advice. For personalised recommendations and tailored advice, please consult a fertility specialist or gynaecologist at Thomson Medical.