Can you stop taking birth control pills in the middle of a pack. What are the potential side effects of discontinuing birth control mid-cycle. How does stopping birth control affect your menstrual cycle and fertility.

Understanding the Implications of Stopping Birth Control Mid-Pack

Many women wonder about the consequences of discontinuing their birth control regimen before completing a pack. While it’s physically possible to stop taking birth control pills at any time, including mid-pack, doing so can lead to various effects on the body. Let’s explore the potential outcomes and considerations when halting oral contraceptives unexpectedly.

Is it safe to stop birth control mid-pack?

From a medical standpoint, stopping birth control pills mid-pack is generally safe. However, it’s crucial to understand that doing so can disrupt your body’s hormonal balance and increase the risk of unintended pregnancy. The hormones in birth control pills work to prevent ovulation and regulate the menstrual cycle. When you abruptly cease taking these hormones, your body may react in various ways.

Potential Side Effects of Discontinuing Birth Control Mid-Cycle

When you stop taking birth control pills before finishing a pack, you may experience several side effects as your body adjusts to the sudden change in hormone levels. These effects can vary from person to person and may include:

• Irregular menstrual bleeding
• Mood swings
• Acne breakouts
• Breast tenderness
• Headaches
• Bloating
• Changes in libido

How long do side effects last after stopping birth control?

The duration of side effects can vary significantly among individuals. For some, symptoms may subside within a few weeks, while others might experience changes for several months. It’s important to note that these effects are typically temporary as your body works to reestablish its natural hormonal balance.

The Impact on Menstrual Cycle and Fertility

Stopping birth control mid-pack can have a significant impact on your menstrual cycle and fertility. The hormones in birth control pills suppress ovulation and regulate your menstrual cycle. When you discontinue use, your body needs time to adjust and resume its natural rhythms.

How quickly can you get pregnant after stopping birth control?

Fertility can return almost immediately after stopping birth control pills. Some women may ovulate within days of discontinuing the pill, while others might take a few months for their cycles to normalize. It’s crucial to use alternative contraception methods if you’re not planning to conceive.

A 2018 meta-analysis of 22 studies found that birth control pills do not affect long-term fertility, and there is typically no significant delay in the return of fertility after stopping use. In fact, one study showed that 98.9% of participants began ovulating within 90 days of discontinuing the pill, with an average time of 32 days to return to ovulation.

Pregnancy Risk and Contraception Considerations

One of the most critical aspects to consider when stopping birth control mid-pack is the increased risk of pregnancy. Without the hormonal suppression of ovulation, you may become fertile almost immediately.

What should you do to prevent pregnancy if you stop birth control mid-pack?

If you’re not planning to conceive, it’s essential to switch to an alternative form of contraception immediately. Options include:

• Barrier methods like condoms or diaphragms
• Non-hormonal IUDs
• Natural family planning methods (requires careful tracking and understanding of your cycle)

If you’re planning to switch to another hormonal contraceptive, consult with a healthcare professional about the best way to transition. In some cases, you may be able to start the new method before completely stopping the old one to ensure continuous protection against pregnancy.

Managing Hormone-Related Symptoms

When you stop taking birth control pills, your body’s natural hormones begin to take over. This transition can lead to various hormone-related symptoms, both in the short and long term.

What are the short-term symptoms of stopping birth control?

In the weeks following discontinuation of birth control, you might experience:

• Spotting or breakthrough bleeding
• Increased menstrual cramps
• Changes in mood or energy levels
• Mild headaches
• Skin changes, including acne flare-ups

Are there any long-term effects of stopping birth control?

While most effects of stopping birth control are temporary, some individuals may experience longer-term changes, particularly in their menstrual cycle. These can include:

• Changes in menstrual flow (heavier or lighter periods)
• Alterations in cycle length or regularity
• Return of symptoms related to conditions managed by birth control (such as PCOS, endometriosis, or severe menstrual cramps)

It’s important to note that these changes are typically a result of your body returning to its natural state rather than negative effects of stopping the pill.

When to Consult a Healthcare Professional

While most side effects of stopping birth control mid-pack are manageable, there are situations where you should seek medical advice.

When should you see a doctor after stopping birth control?

Consider consulting a healthcare professional if:

• Your menstrual cycle hasn’t returned to normal after 3 months
• You experience severe mood changes or depression
• You have unusually heavy bleeding or severe abdominal pain
• You suspect you might be pregnant
• You’re concerned about any persistent symptoms

A healthcare provider can offer guidance, address your concerns, and help manage any persistent symptoms or complications.

Alternatives to Stopping Birth Control Mid-Pack

If you’re considering stopping birth control mid-pack due to side effects or other concerns, it’s worth exploring alternatives before making a decision.

What are some alternatives to stopping birth control abruptly?

Consider these options:

• Switching to a different type of birth control pill with a different hormone balance
• Exploring non-hormonal contraceptive methods
• Discussing your concerns with a healthcare provider to address specific issues
• If you’re stopping due to planning pregnancy, finishing your current pack before discontinuing use

These alternatives may help address your concerns while minimizing the potential side effects and risks associated with stopping birth control mid-pack.

Planning for Future Contraception or Conception

Whether you’re stopping birth control to switch methods or to try for pregnancy, it’s important to plan ahead.

How should you prepare when planning to stop birth control?

Consider these steps:

1. Consult with a healthcare provider about your plans and any health concerns
2. If trying to conceive, start taking prenatal vitamins before stopping birth control
3. Research and prepare alternative contraception methods if needed
4. Be aware of your cycle and learn to track ovulation if planning pregnancy
5. Prepare for potential side effects and have strategies to manage them

By planning ahead, you can make the transition off birth control smoother and more aligned with your health and family planning goals.

Stopping birth control mid-pack is a decision that comes with various considerations and potential effects. While it’s generally safe to do so, it’s crucial to be aware of the possible side effects, increased pregnancy risk, and changes to your menstrual cycle. By understanding these factors and planning accordingly, you can navigate this transition more effectively. Remember, every individual’s experience may differ, and consulting with a healthcare professional can provide personalized guidance based on your specific situation and health history.

Are there any side effects?

A person can stop taking birth control pills at any point, including during the middle of the pack.

However, coming off birth control pills increases the likelihood of pregnancy in the absence of other birth control methods.

Additionally, birth control pills override the natural menstrual cycle. Coming off these pills may, therefore, lead to temporary menstrual cycle irregularities and other hormone-related symptoms.

Read on to find out more about the potential risks and side effects of stopping birth control mid pack.

Share on PinterestHormone-related symptoms are a possible side effect of stopping the birth control pill.

Birth control pills contain hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle and prevent ovulation.

As a result, the time of the month that a person stops taking the pills may influence the side effects that they experience.

However, there are no data on the specific risks relating to stopping birth control pills mid pack.

Some general risks or side effects of coming off the birth control pill include those below.

Pregnancy

Stopping the birth control pill increases a person’s likelihood of becoming pregnant. To avoid an unplanned pregnancy, it is necessary to use an alternative method of birth control.

Some people may choose to switch to an alternative hormonal contraceptive. In this case, they should wait for the new contraceptive to take effect before having sex. Alternatively, they can immediately switch to using condoms or diaphragms during sex to help prevent pregnancy.

In some cases, a person may be able to start the new contraceptive before stopping the previous one. Doing this protects against pregnancy while giving the new hormones time to take effect. People should talk to a healthcare professional about the safety of using two hormonal contraceptives at the same time.

Hormone-related symptoms

Some women may experience short-term or longer-term symptoms as a result of stopping the birth control pill.

Short-term symptoms

Symptoms can occur in the weeks after coming off the pill when the body’s natural hormones kick back in. These symptoms tend to be temporary and may include:

Longer-term symptoms

Some people may experience longer-term changes in their menstrual cycle after they stop taking the pill.

Without birth control hormones regulating it, the menstrual cycle may change. It may become more irregular or start to follow a different schedule. Some people may experience heavier or more painful periods.

Additionally, some individuals use the birth control pill to control certain conditions, such as:

The symptoms of these conditions may return in the absence of the pill.

When a person stops taking the birth control pill, the pill’s hormones quickly leave the body. Gradually, the body’s natural hormones will resume regulating the menstrual cycle. Most people have their first period about 2–4 weeks after coming off the pill. However, it can take up to 3 months for the natural menstrual cycle to fully reestablish itself.

In some cases, a hormone dysregulation may develop while a person is using the birth control pill, which will mask the symptoms. Anyone who finds that their cycle has not returned to normal after a few months should see a doctor.

Effects on pregnancy risk

Birth control pills work by preventing ovulation, which is the process by which the body releases an egg. The pills also thicken the mucus of the cervix. As a result, even if ovulation does occur, it is more difficult for sperm to reach the egg.

As birth control pills suppress ovulation, removing these hormones from the body can trigger ovulation. In theory, ovulation could occur straight after coming off the pill. In this case, immediate pregnancy is a possibility.

The actual timing of ovulation depends on when in the cycle a person stops using birth control pills, as well as their overall fertility.

Effects on fertility

A 2018 meta-analysis looked at 22 studies on people’s fertility after stopping the use of birth control pills. The authors concluded that:

• birth control pills do not affect long-term fertility
• the duration of use of birth control pills is not a significant predictor of fertility
• there is no significant delay in the return of fertility after stopping the use of birth control pills

An earlier study investigated the length of time that it took for fertility to return following continuous use of the birth control pill levonorgestrel for a year. Of the 187 participants who took part in the study, 98.9% began ovulating within 90 days of stopping the pill. The average time that it took the participants to return to ovulation was 32 days.

This finding suggests that although some users may experience a delay in fertility after stopping the birth control pill, most will quickly become fertile again.

In a second study investigating fertility following continuous use of levonorgestrel, 52% of the 21 participants who wanted to become pregnant did so within 3 months of stopping this pill. Within 13 months, 86% became pregnant. These pregnancy rates are similar to those of the general population.

There are several reasons why a person may choose to stop taking birth control pills. These include:

• switching to another birth control method
• concerns about the short-term or long-term health effects of hormonal birth control
• unpleasant side effects
• trying to get pregnant
• the cost of birth control

It is safe to stop taking the birth control pill at any time. However, anyone who wishes to switch to an alternative method of contraception should talk to a doctor or sexual health adviser first. These professionals will be able to provide information on the various options. They may also be able to recommend a birth control pill with fewer side effects if this is something of concern.

People can safely stop using oral contraceptives anytime they wish. There is no need to wait until a period begins or to seek approval from a doctor.

However, those who stop taking birth control pills should be aware of the increased likelihood of becoming pregnant. Anyone who does not want to become pregnant should use an alternative method of contraception.

Although stopping birth control pills is safe, it can sometimes result in side effects. However, these are usually short-term.

Individuals with hormone-related conditions may experience the return or worsening of symptoms once they stop taking the birth control pill. They should discuss the risks and alternative treatment options with their doctor.

Are there any side effects?

A person can stop taking birth control pills at any point, including during the middle of the pack.

However, coming off birth control pills increases the likelihood of pregnancy in the absence of other birth control methods.

Additionally, birth control pills override the natural menstrual cycle. Coming off these pills may, therefore, lead to temporary menstrual cycle irregularities and other hormone-related symptoms.

Read on to find out more about the potential risks and side effects of stopping birth control mid pack.

Share on PinterestHormone-related symptoms are a possible side effect of stopping the birth control pill.

Birth control pills contain hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle and prevent ovulation.

As a result, the time of the month that a person stops taking the pills may influence the side effects that they experience.

However, there are no data on the specific risks relating to stopping birth control pills mid pack.

Some general risks or side effects of coming off the birth control pill include those below.

Pregnancy

Stopping the birth control pill increases a person’s likelihood of becoming pregnant. To avoid an unplanned pregnancy, it is necessary to use an alternative method of birth control.

Some people may choose to switch to an alternative hormonal contraceptive. In this case, they should wait for the new contraceptive to take effect before having sex. Alternatively, they can immediately switch to using condoms or diaphragms during sex to help prevent pregnancy.

In some cases, a person may be able to start the new contraceptive before stopping the previous one. Doing this protects against pregnancy while giving the new hormones time to take effect. People should talk to a healthcare professional about the safety of using two hormonal contraceptives at the same time.

Hormone-related symptoms

Some women may experience short-term or longer-term symptoms as a result of stopping the birth control pill.

Short-term symptoms

Symptoms can occur in the weeks after coming off the pill when the body’s natural hormones kick back in. These symptoms tend to be temporary and may include:

Longer-term symptoms

Some people may experience longer-term changes in their menstrual cycle after they stop taking the pill.

Without birth control hormones regulating it, the menstrual cycle may change. It may become more irregular or start to follow a different schedule. Some people may experience heavier or more painful periods.

Additionally, some individuals use the birth control pill to control certain conditions, such as:

The symptoms of these conditions may return in the absence of the pill.

When a person stops taking the birth control pill, the pill’s hormones quickly leave the body. Gradually, the body’s natural hormones will resume regulating the menstrual cycle. Most people have their first period about 2–4 weeks after coming off the pill. However, it can take up to 3 months for the natural menstrual cycle to fully reestablish itself.

In some cases, a hormone dysregulation may develop while a person is using the birth control pill, which will mask the symptoms. Anyone who finds that their cycle has not returned to normal after a few months should see a doctor.

Effects on pregnancy risk

Birth control pills work by preventing ovulation, which is the process by which the body releases an egg. The pills also thicken the mucus of the cervix. As a result, even if ovulation does occur, it is more difficult for sperm to reach the egg.

As birth control pills suppress ovulation, removing these hormones from the body can trigger ovulation. In theory, ovulation could occur straight after coming off the pill. In this case, immediate pregnancy is a possibility.

The actual timing of ovulation depends on when in the cycle a person stops using birth control pills, as well as their overall fertility.

Effects on fertility

A 2018 meta-analysis looked at 22 studies on people’s fertility after stopping the use of birth control pills. The authors concluded that:

• birth control pills do not affect long-term fertility
• the duration of use of birth control pills is not a significant predictor of fertility
• there is no significant delay in the return of fertility after stopping the use of birth control pills

An earlier study investigated the length of time that it took for fertility to return following continuous use of the birth control pill levonorgestrel for a year. Of the 187 participants who took part in the study, 98.9% began ovulating within 90 days of stopping the pill. The average time that it took the participants to return to ovulation was 32 days.

This finding suggests that although some users may experience a delay in fertility after stopping the birth control pill, most will quickly become fertile again.

In a second study investigating fertility following continuous use of levonorgestrel, 52% of the 21 participants who wanted to become pregnant did so within 3 months of stopping this pill. Within 13 months, 86% became pregnant. These pregnancy rates are similar to those of the general population.

There are several reasons why a person may choose to stop taking birth control pills. These include:

• switching to another birth control method
• concerns about the short-term or long-term health effects of hormonal birth control
• unpleasant side effects
• trying to get pregnant
• the cost of birth control

It is safe to stop taking the birth control pill at any time. However, anyone who wishes to switch to an alternative method of contraception should talk to a doctor or sexual health adviser first. These professionals will be able to provide information on the various options. They may also be able to recommend a birth control pill with fewer side effects if this is something of concern.

People can safely stop using oral contraceptives anytime they wish. There is no need to wait until a period begins or to seek approval from a doctor.

However, those who stop taking birth control pills should be aware of the increased likelihood of becoming pregnant. Anyone who does not want to become pregnant should use an alternative method of contraception.

Although stopping birth control pills is safe, it can sometimes result in side effects. However, these are usually short-term.

Individuals with hormone-related conditions may experience the return or worsening of symptoms once they stop taking the birth control pill. They should discuss the risks and alternative treatment options with their doctor.

Are there any side effects?

A person can stop taking birth control pills at any point, including during the middle of the pack.

However, coming off birth control pills increases the likelihood of pregnancy in the absence of other birth control methods.

Additionally, birth control pills override the natural menstrual cycle. Coming off these pills may, therefore, lead to temporary menstrual cycle irregularities and other hormone-related symptoms.

Read on to find out more about the potential risks and side effects of stopping birth control mid pack.

Share on PinterestHormone-related symptoms are a possible side effect of stopping the birth control pill.

Birth control pills contain hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle and prevent ovulation.

As a result, the time of the month that a person stops taking the pills may influence the side effects that they experience.

However, there are no data on the specific risks relating to stopping birth control pills mid pack.

Some general risks or side effects of coming off the birth control pill include those below.

Pregnancy

Stopping the birth control pill increases a person’s likelihood of becoming pregnant. To avoid an unplanned pregnancy, it is necessary to use an alternative method of birth control.

Some people may choose to switch to an alternative hormonal contraceptive. In this case, they should wait for the new contraceptive to take effect before having sex. Alternatively, they can immediately switch to using condoms or diaphragms during sex to help prevent pregnancy.

In some cases, a person may be able to start the new contraceptive before stopping the previous one. Doing this protects against pregnancy while giving the new hormones time to take effect. People should talk to a healthcare professional about the safety of using two hormonal contraceptives at the same time.

Hormone-related symptoms

Some women may experience short-term or longer-term symptoms as a result of stopping the birth control pill.

Short-term symptoms

Symptoms can occur in the weeks after coming off the pill when the body’s natural hormones kick back in. These symptoms tend to be temporary and may include:

Longer-term symptoms

Some people may experience longer-term changes in their menstrual cycle after they stop taking the pill.

Without birth control hormones regulating it, the menstrual cycle may change. It may become more irregular or start to follow a different schedule. Some people may experience heavier or more painful periods.

Additionally, some individuals use the birth control pill to control certain conditions, such as:

The symptoms of these conditions may return in the absence of the pill.

When a person stops taking the birth control pill, the pill’s hormones quickly leave the body. Gradually, the body’s natural hormones will resume regulating the menstrual cycle. Most people have their first period about 2–4 weeks after coming off the pill. However, it can take up to 3 months for the natural menstrual cycle to fully reestablish itself.

In some cases, a hormone dysregulation may develop while a person is using the birth control pill, which will mask the symptoms. Anyone who finds that their cycle has not returned to normal after a few months should see a doctor.

Effects on pregnancy risk

Birth control pills work by preventing ovulation, which is the process by which the body releases an egg. The pills also thicken the mucus of the cervix. As a result, even if ovulation does occur, it is more difficult for sperm to reach the egg.

As birth control pills suppress ovulation, removing these hormones from the body can trigger ovulation. In theory, ovulation could occur straight after coming off the pill. In this case, immediate pregnancy is a possibility.

The actual timing of ovulation depends on when in the cycle a person stops using birth control pills, as well as their overall fertility.

Effects on fertility

A 2018 meta-analysis looked at 22 studies on people’s fertility after stopping the use of birth control pills. The authors concluded that:

• birth control pills do not affect long-term fertility
• the duration of use of birth control pills is not a significant predictor of fertility
• there is no significant delay in the return of fertility after stopping the use of birth control pills

An earlier study investigated the length of time that it took for fertility to return following continuous use of the birth control pill levonorgestrel for a year. Of the 187 participants who took part in the study, 98.9% began ovulating within 90 days of stopping the pill. The average time that it took the participants to return to ovulation was 32 days.

This finding suggests that although some users may experience a delay in fertility after stopping the birth control pill, most will quickly become fertile again.

In a second study investigating fertility following continuous use of levonorgestrel, 52% of the 21 participants who wanted to become pregnant did so within 3 months of stopping this pill. Within 13 months, 86% became pregnant. These pregnancy rates are similar to those of the general population.

There are several reasons why a person may choose to stop taking birth control pills. These include:

• switching to another birth control method
• concerns about the short-term or long-term health effects of hormonal birth control
• unpleasant side effects
• trying to get pregnant
• the cost of birth control

It is safe to stop taking the birth control pill at any time. However, anyone who wishes to switch to an alternative method of contraception should talk to a doctor or sexual health adviser first. These professionals will be able to provide information on the various options. They may also be able to recommend a birth control pill with fewer side effects if this is something of concern.

People can safely stop using oral contraceptives anytime they wish. There is no need to wait until a period begins or to seek approval from a doctor.

However, those who stop taking birth control pills should be aware of the increased likelihood of becoming pregnant. Anyone who does not want to become pregnant should use an alternative method of contraception.

Although stopping birth control pills is safe, it can sometimes result in side effects. However, these are usually short-term.

Individuals with hormone-related conditions may experience the return or worsening of symptoms once they stop taking the birth control pill. They should discuss the risks and alternative treatment options with their doctor.

Are there any side effects?

A person can stop taking birth control pills at any point, including during the middle of the pack.

However, coming off birth control pills increases the likelihood of pregnancy in the absence of other birth control methods.

Additionally, birth control pills override the natural menstrual cycle. Coming off these pills may, therefore, lead to temporary menstrual cycle irregularities and other hormone-related symptoms.

Read on to find out more about the potential risks and side effects of stopping birth control mid pack.

Share on PinterestHormone-related symptoms are a possible side effect of stopping the birth control pill.

Birth control pills contain hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle and prevent ovulation.

As a result, the time of the month that a person stops taking the pills may influence the side effects that they experience.

However, there are no data on the specific risks relating to stopping birth control pills mid pack.

Some general risks or side effects of coming off the birth control pill include those below.

Pregnancy

Stopping the birth control pill increases a person’s likelihood of becoming pregnant. To avoid an unplanned pregnancy, it is necessary to use an alternative method of birth control.

Some people may choose to switch to an alternative hormonal contraceptive. In this case, they should wait for the new contraceptive to take effect before having sex. Alternatively, they can immediately switch to using condoms or diaphragms during sex to help prevent pregnancy.

In some cases, a person may be able to start the new contraceptive before stopping the previous one. Doing this protects against pregnancy while giving the new hormones time to take effect. People should talk to a healthcare professional about the safety of using two hormonal contraceptives at the same time.

Hormone-related symptoms

Some women may experience short-term or longer-term symptoms as a result of stopping the birth control pill.

Short-term symptoms

Symptoms can occur in the weeks after coming off the pill when the body’s natural hormones kick back in. These symptoms tend to be temporary and may include:

Longer-term symptoms

Some people may experience longer-term changes in their menstrual cycle after they stop taking the pill.

Without birth control hormones regulating it, the menstrual cycle may change. It may become more irregular or start to follow a different schedule. Some people may experience heavier or more painful periods.

Additionally, some individuals use the birth control pill to control certain conditions, such as:

The symptoms of these conditions may return in the absence of the pill.

When a person stops taking the birth control pill, the pill’s hormones quickly leave the body. Gradually, the body’s natural hormones will resume regulating the menstrual cycle. Most people have their first period about 2–4 weeks after coming off the pill. However, it can take up to 3 months for the natural menstrual cycle to fully reestablish itself.

In some cases, a hormone dysregulation may develop while a person is using the birth control pill, which will mask the symptoms. Anyone who finds that their cycle has not returned to normal after a few months should see a doctor.

Effects on pregnancy risk

Birth control pills work by preventing ovulation, which is the process by which the body releases an egg. The pills also thicken the mucus of the cervix. As a result, even if ovulation does occur, it is more difficult for sperm to reach the egg.

As birth control pills suppress ovulation, removing these hormones from the body can trigger ovulation. In theory, ovulation could occur straight after coming off the pill. In this case, immediate pregnancy is a possibility.

The actual timing of ovulation depends on when in the cycle a person stops using birth control pills, as well as their overall fertility.

Effects on fertility

A 2018 meta-analysis looked at 22 studies on people’s fertility after stopping the use of birth control pills. The authors concluded that:

• birth control pills do not affect long-term fertility
• the duration of use of birth control pills is not a significant predictor of fertility
• there is no significant delay in the return of fertility after stopping the use of birth control pills

An earlier study investigated the length of time that it took for fertility to return following continuous use of the birth control pill levonorgestrel for a year. Of the 187 participants who took part in the study, 98.9% began ovulating within 90 days of stopping the pill. The average time that it took the participants to return to ovulation was 32 days.

This finding suggests that although some users may experience a delay in fertility after stopping the birth control pill, most will quickly become fertile again.

In a second study investigating fertility following continuous use of levonorgestrel, 52% of the 21 participants who wanted to become pregnant did so within 3 months of stopping this pill. Within 13 months, 86% became pregnant. These pregnancy rates are similar to those of the general population.

There are several reasons why a person may choose to stop taking birth control pills. These include:

• switching to another birth control method
• concerns about the short-term or long-term health effects of hormonal birth control
• unpleasant side effects
• trying to get pregnant
• the cost of birth control

It is safe to stop taking the birth control pill at any time. However, anyone who wishes to switch to an alternative method of contraception should talk to a doctor or sexual health adviser first. These professionals will be able to provide information on the various options. They may also be able to recommend a birth control pill with fewer side effects if this is something of concern.

People can safely stop using oral contraceptives anytime they wish. There is no need to wait until a period begins or to seek approval from a doctor.

However, those who stop taking birth control pills should be aware of the increased likelihood of becoming pregnant. Anyone who does not want to become pregnant should use an alternative method of contraception.

Although stopping birth control pills is safe, it can sometimes result in side effects. However, these are usually short-term.

Individuals with hormone-related conditions may experience the return or worsening of symptoms once they stop taking the birth control pill. They should discuss the risks and alternative treatment options with their doctor.

Are there any side effects?

A person can stop taking birth control pills at any point, including during the middle of the pack.

However, coming off birth control pills increases the likelihood of pregnancy in the absence of other birth control methods.

Additionally, birth control pills override the natural menstrual cycle. Coming off these pills may, therefore, lead to temporary menstrual cycle irregularities and other hormone-related symptoms.

Read on to find out more about the potential risks and side effects of stopping birth control mid pack.

Share on PinterestHormone-related symptoms are a possible side effect of stopping the birth control pill.

Birth control pills contain hormones that regulate the menstrual cycle and prevent ovulation.

As a result, the time of the month that a person stops taking the pills may influence the side effects that they experience.

However, there are no data on the specific risks relating to stopping birth control pills mid pack.

Some general risks or side effects of coming off the birth control pill include those below.

Pregnancy

Stopping the birth control pill increases a person’s likelihood of becoming pregnant. To avoid an unplanned pregnancy, it is necessary to use an alternative method of birth control.

Some people may choose to switch to an alternative hormonal contraceptive. In this case, they should wait for the new contraceptive to take effect before having sex. Alternatively, they can immediately switch to using condoms or diaphragms during sex to help prevent pregnancy.

In some cases, a person may be able to start the new contraceptive before stopping the previous one. Doing this protects against pregnancy while giving the new hormones time to take effect. People should talk to a healthcare professional about the safety of using two hormonal contraceptives at the same time.

Hormone-related symptoms

Some women may experience short-term or longer-term symptoms as a result of stopping the birth control pill.

Short-term symptoms

Symptoms can occur in the weeks after coming off the pill when the body’s natural hormones kick back in. These symptoms tend to be temporary and may include:

Longer-term symptoms

Some people may experience longer-term changes in their menstrual cycle after they stop taking the pill.

Without birth control hormones regulating it, the menstrual cycle may change. It may become more irregular or start to follow a different schedule. Some people may experience heavier or more painful periods.

Additionally, some individuals use the birth control pill to control certain conditions, such as:

The symptoms of these conditions may return in the absence of the pill.

When a person stops taking the birth control pill, the pill’s hormones quickly leave the body. Gradually, the body’s natural hormones will resume regulating the menstrual cycle. Most people have their first period about 2–4 weeks after coming off the pill. However, it can take up to 3 months for the natural menstrual cycle to fully reestablish itself.

In some cases, a hormone dysregulation may develop while a person is using the birth control pill, which will mask the symptoms. Anyone who finds that their cycle has not returned to normal after a few months should see a doctor.

Effects on pregnancy risk

Birth control pills work by preventing ovulation, which is the process by which the body releases an egg. The pills also thicken the mucus of the cervix. As a result, even if ovulation does occur, it is more difficult for sperm to reach the egg.

As birth control pills suppress ovulation, removing these hormones from the body can trigger ovulation. In theory, ovulation could occur straight after coming off the pill. In this case, immediate pregnancy is a possibility.

The actual timing of ovulation depends on when in the cycle a person stops using birth control pills, as well as their overall fertility.

Effects on fertility

A 2018 meta-analysis looked at 22 studies on people’s fertility after stopping the use of birth control pills. The authors concluded that:

• birth control pills do not affect long-term fertility
• the duration of use of birth control pills is not a significant predictor of fertility
• there is no significant delay in the return of fertility after stopping the use of birth control pills

An earlier study investigated the length of time that it took for fertility to return following continuous use of the birth control pill levonorgestrel for a year. Of the 187 participants who took part in the study, 98.9% began ovulating within 90 days of stopping the pill. The average time that it took the participants to return to ovulation was 32 days.

This finding suggests that although some users may experience a delay in fertility after stopping the birth control pill, most will quickly become fertile again.

In a second study investigating fertility following continuous use of levonorgestrel, 52% of the 21 participants who wanted to become pregnant did so within 3 months of stopping this pill. Within 13 months, 86% became pregnant. These pregnancy rates are similar to those of the general population.

There are several reasons why a person may choose to stop taking birth control pills. These include:

• switching to another birth control method
• concerns about the short-term or long-term health effects of hormonal birth control
• unpleasant side effects
• trying to get pregnant
• the cost of birth control

It is safe to stop taking the birth control pill at any time. However, anyone who wishes to switch to an alternative method of contraception should talk to a doctor or sexual health adviser first. These professionals will be able to provide information on the various options. They may also be able to recommend a birth control pill with fewer side effects if this is something of concern.

People can safely stop using oral contraceptives anytime they wish. There is no need to wait until a period begins or to seek approval from a doctor.

However, those who stop taking birth control pills should be aware of the increased likelihood of becoming pregnant. Anyone who does not want to become pregnant should use an alternative method of contraception.

Although stopping birth control pills is safe, it can sometimes result in side effects. However, these are usually short-term.

Individuals with hormone-related conditions may experience the return or worsening of symptoms once they stop taking the birth control pill. They should discuss the risks and alternative treatment options with their doctor.

What Are the Risks of Stopping Birth Control Mid-Pack?

Stopping your birth control pills mid-pack can cause symptoms such as irregular periods, spotting, and cramping as your body struggles to fall back to a regular menstrual cycle. These problems are temporary and will not pose any long-term risks to your health. However, you should be aware of these short-term risks if you want to stop your birth control pills in the middle of the pack.

What Are the Risks of Stopping Pills Mid-Pack?

All the hormonal changes in your body caused by stopping birth control pills can trigger a variety of symptoms. These include:

• No periods (post-pill amenorrhea).
• Mild spotting.
• Very light or heavy periods.
• Abdominal cramping, during periods and in between.
• Weight gain, often due to increased appetite and other side effects sapping motivation to exercise.
• Weight loss.
• Mood swings as hormones which regular mood leave the body.
• Breast tenderness.
• Headaches.
• Food cravings.
• Acne.
• Nausea and other gut issues, including bloating and gassiness due to changes in gut bacteria.
• Hair loss.
• Water retention.
• Changes in libido. Some women report a greater sex drive while others say their libido drops while they are adjusting to life off the pill.
• Increased risk of pregnancy.

You’re more likely to experience these symptoms if you were on the pill for a long time. Most of these changes should be temporary and not compromise your health in any way. You should see these symptoms subside and your body settle down into a normal menstrual cycle in around three months. However, if you had these symptoms, such as acne or mood swings, before you started taking birth control they may persist once you stop taking the pills. This isn’t always the case though. Sometimes the pill’s hormone stabilizing effects continue even after women stop taking the pill.

While it’s rare, you could also become pregnant earlier than you might expect when you stop your pills mid-pack as sperm can survive for some time in the female reproductive tract. You could have sex, then stop the pill and create the right conditions for the sperm to fertilize the egg. As mentioned above, women are also more likely to become pregnant when they stop their pills mid-pack until their menstrual cycle returns to normal.

While there is an increased risk of symptoms occurring if you stop your birth control mid-pack and the symptoms may persist for longer, they can also happen if you stop your birth control at the end of your pack. Everyone’s body reacts differently to stopping birth control.

Why Stop Birth Control Pills Mid-Pack?

You might want to stop birth control pills in the middle of your pack for several reasons, including:

• Wanting to have children.
• Wanting to change or stop birth control to combat side effects.
• Wanting to start another contraceptive you don’t need to take daily.
• Under medical advice to stop taking birth control.

Perhaps you don’t want to budget for birth control pills and figure now is as good a time to stop as any. No matter your reason, take time to consider whether the risks of stopping mid-pack are worth taking for you.

Medical experts typically encourage people to finish their birth control pack before stopping birth control or finding another method. This helps your body return to a natural menstrual cycle. It can also make it easier to determine when you’re ovulating if you do want to have a baby.

What Does Stopping Birth Control Pills Mid-Pack Do to Your Body?

When you stop taking your birth control pills, your reproductive system starts functioning normally again. The body starts making the hormones that encourage the follicles in your ovaries to mature and release eggs. However, if you stop your pack in the middle, it could take your body several months to start producing these hormones. In most cases though, women ovulate and regain fertility two weeks after they stop birth control.

Combination pills contain estrogen which stabilizes the lining of the uterus, called the endometrium. When you stop taking these pills mid-pack, the estrogen leaves your body suddenly. This can upset the lining of the uterus and cause it to shed a little, causing spotting.

All birth control pills contain hormones. When these hormones leave your body, usually within two days, they can cause a withdrawal bleed, even if you’ve only just had a period. Since progestin-only pills have fewer hormones than combination pills, there is less risk of side effects if you stop these pills mid-pack.

How Can You Treat the Symptoms of Stopping Birth Control Mid-Pack?

As the symptoms of stopping birth control mid-pack are temporary, many women simply ride them out. However, there are ways to make the months after you stop birth control easier:

• Use panty liners or period underpants to minimize mess from spotting.
• Use hot water bottles and drink herbal tea to relieve cramps.
• Eat a balanced whole-foods diet and exercise to relieve cramps and reduce weight gain.
• Avoid dairy, increase zinc consumption, and eat foods rich in probiotics, such as live-cultured yogurt, kefir, and sauerkraut, and to reduce acne.
• Take probiotic supplements to restore healthy gut bacteria.
• Reduce stress to increase progesterone and get the body back in hormonal balance.
• Over-the-counter painkillers can relieve cramps and headaches.
• Skincare products can tame acne.
• Use of other contraceptives, such as condoms or diaphragms, can combat the increased risk of pregnancy while your menstrual cycle is returning to normal.

Symptoms rarely persist beyond three or four months. If you had irregular periods before you started the pill, it might take six months for your period to return. If your symptoms do persist longer than expected, speak to a Nurx ™ medical expert. You can also speak to a Nurx medical expert to rule out any other health problems and to see if changing or stopping your birth control method is right for you. If you’re stopping birth control to try having a baby, your care provider can also help you create a prenatal plan.

The effects of stopping the birth control pill

Cycle Health

Oh yes, it’s true. Both starting and stopping the pill can cause side effects. Can we catch a break, please?

Whatever your reasons for stopping, getting pregnant isn’t the only thing that can happen when you come off combined oral contraceptive pill. Whether you’re breaking up with the pill completely, or just taking some time apart, it’s a good idea to know what to expect and why.

How to stop taking the pill

There’s no single method to follow when you come off the pill, so the good news is that when you’re ready to stop, you can simply stop.

The main thing to remember is that if you stop at the end of your pack, you’ll get your withdrawal bleed as usual. If you stop in the middle of the pack, you’ll get the bleed straight away, which can alter the dates of your natural cycle.

Most women get their “natural” period back between 2 – 4 weeks of coming off the pill. If your period hasn’t returned after a month and you’re feeling uncertain, it’s always a good idea to take a pregnancy test. However, a number of genetic and lifestyle factors affect our periods, so for some women it can take up to 3 months for it to return.

Common side effects

When you started taking birth control, you may have noticed several side effects. The pill can help lessen cramps and heavy periods, so be aware that these might return when you stop taking it. The side effects of stopping birth control can be both positive and negative. Here are the most common ones to look out for:

• Mood swings: Whether it’s starting or stopping the pill, changing hormone levels can wreak havoc on your mood. Keep an eye on your changing moods and if you’re worried about your mental health, don’t be afraid to reach out to a trusted friend or your doctor.
• Irregular periods: When you come off the pill, it might take several months before you find your rhythm again. It can help to keep some supplies handy in case your period takes you off-guard during this time!
• Heavier, more painful periods: If you’ve suffered from painful cramps and heavy periods before taking the pill, it’s likely these symptoms will return when you decide to stop.
• Return of acne: When you take the pill, it can suppress your natural testosterone levels, which can help clear your skin. After you stop this temporary cure, your acne may return.
• Increased sex drive: Another effect of decreased testosterone levels could be a decrease in your libido. You might notice an increase in desire when you stop taking the pill. Hey, we didn’t say it was all bad!

Pro tip: Tracking these side effects can be a great way to keep an eye on anything out of the ordinary for your cycle!

When can I get pregnant again?

One of the many scare stories surrounding oral contraception is that it has an adverse affect on your fertility. It’s a myth that taking the pill has any long term effect on your fertility.

Let me say it again for the people in the back:

It’s a myth that taking the pill has any long term effect on your fertility.

You can get pregnant straight away, even before your next period arrives. This is because when you stop taking your pill, your body can send the signal that it’s time to ovulate. That’s why it’s so important to move to another form of contraception if you aren’t looking to conceive.

For the lowdown on other types of contraception, we’ve got you covered.

Follow us @cycles.app for more tips!

Refusal of contraceptives

If you are going to refuse hormonal contraception, then you need to understand that the body will definitely react to it. Unfortunately, many women notice the negative impact of hormonal withdrawal on the body as a whole. What is the cause of the side effects of hormone withdrawal and how can they be minimized? Let’s find out.

Why does the body rebel?

After giving up birth control, many women notice that severe menstrual pains return, rashes may appear on the skin, and the emotional state becomes unstable.These changes are especially noticeable immediately after the abolition of hormonal drugs. What is the reason?

In fact, this is how the body fights hormonal changes. If for many years hormones came from outside, the body got used to the fact that they do not need to be produced on its own, “lazy”. Now he needs to restore the hormonal background again, and this will happen, it is only necessary to give the body a little time.

How to facilitate this process and recover with a minimum of side effects? Here are some tips.

1. Tidy up the intestinal microflora.
   The tablets were absorbed in the intestines, so it makes sense to scan it and restore normal microflora with probiotics.
2. Eat well and in a balanced way.
   This is important whether you are taking hormones or not. Long-term use of hormonal contraceptives can lead to vitamin B deficiency, so eat plenty of fresh fruits and vegetables to make up for the deficiency. This is especially important if pregnancy is planned soon – vegetables contain a lot of folic acid, which is responsible for cell division.
3. Be patient.
   The normal cycle will be restored within a couple of months after hormone withdrawal. However, if you are not planning a pregnancy, it is worth considering another method of contraception as early as possible.
4. Take herbal teas.
   The herb cuff has a beneficial effect on the cycle. It not only helps regulate the cycle, but also relieves pain during menstruation. You can make a mixture of Cuff, Melissa and Damiana – such a herbal tea will help the body to recover faster.
5. Take magnesium supplements. Magnesium has a relaxing effect on the uterus. Such preparations can not only be drunk, but also rubbed into the skin (in the case of magnesium oil). The drug is absorbed better through the skin.

If you want to replace hormonal contraception with another type of protection, or get advice from a qualified specialist, please contact our center – we will be happy to help you!

Fomin’s Clinic – a network of multidisciplinary clinics

There are many methods of hormonal contraception, it is not easy to understand them.In this article, we answer the most common questions and consider in detail the pros, cons and subtleties of using hormonal contraceptives.

All processes associated with childbirth in the female body are controlled by hormones. With the help of drugs that contain synthetic analogs of female hormones, it is possible to prevent pregnancy even at the stage of egg maturation.

Modern hormonal contraceptives can do three things:

• prevent the egg from leaving the ovaries – that is, they stop ovulation;

• make the mucus in the cervix thick and sticky so that sperm cannot reach the egg and fertilize it;

• disrupt the growth of the uterine lining (endometrium) – as a result, the fertilized egg cannot gain a foothold in the uterus.

This is usually enough to prevent pregnancy. Women who use hormonal contraceptives do not need a condom “for insurance,” but to protect themselves from sexually transmitted infections. Hormonal contraceptives do not protect against germs.

According to the British Ministry of Health, when used correctly, hormonal contraceptives are more than 99% effective. But even if you use them not quite according to the instructions (for example, take a pill at the wrong time, or skip taking one pill altogether), the result will still be quite reliable: about 91% effectiveness.

It is important to understand that there is no 100% reliable method of contraception. Employees of the World Health Organization (WHO) calculated the proportion of married couples who used hormonal contraceptives for a whole year in full accordance with existing recommendations – that is, according to instructions and regularly. Even so, 0.05-0.3% of women did become pregnant.

And this is a great result. In comparison, the proportion of women who became pregnant while using the male condom was 2%.Sperm-killing vaginal suppositories and gels failed the owners in 18% of cases, and vaginal diaphragms, which were used together with gels, in 6% of cases.

Like any drugs, hormonal contraceptives have side effects, but the benefits of them in most cases far outweigh the harm. For example, birth control pills were recently found to protect women from ovarian and endometrial cancer.

It is interesting that even a complete “abolition of menstruation” does not harm the female body.It is even helpful – if a woman suffered from endometriosis prior to taking contraceptives, hormonal contraceptives can help relieve symptoms.

But for contraception to be useful, an important condition must be observed: the drug must be selected correctly. This should be done by a doctor.

No. For most women, the ability to have children is restored in the first month after giving up hormonal contraception.

The only exception is injectable methods of contraception, which last for 3-6 months.In order for the probability of conception to be higher, it is worth waiting 6-10 months from the moment of the last injection.

Hormonal contraceptives are divided into two large groups: progestin and combined, the latter include progestins and estrogens. Although drugs from both groups prevent pregnancy, they work slightly differently and have different side effects.

For example, in addition to protecting against unplanned pregnancy, combination drugs treat acne and reduce menstrual pain – but more often progestin-only drugs cause headaches, and they should not be smoked.

In addition, the difference in composition allows you to select a contraceptive for the needs of a particular woman. The medication a teenager needs may be different from a 40-year-old mother of two.

What they are. Progestin-only contraceptives come in the form of tablets, subcutaneous implants, and injections.

Suitable for anyone. A universal remedy, suitable for almost everyone. Most often it is recommended for patients who have contraindications for combined contraceptives: nursing mothers and women who have contraindications for taking combined contraceptives.

Frequent side effects. Acne, breast tenderness, headaches. Sometimes spotting occurs, or these contraceptives lead to a complete absence of menstruation, which does not suit everyone.

Nuances:

If a woman chose pills, and more than 5 days have passed since the last menstrual period, 2 more days after taking the first pill, you need to use additional methods of contraception. If less than 5 days have passed, additional contraception is not needed.

If a woman does not have a menstrual cycle and is not pregnant, you can start drinking the drug on any day of the cycle. Just in case, you need to use additional means of protection for another 2 days.

The tablets can be taken immediately after the baby is born, but it is better to start one month after the birth. So there is less danger of thromboembolism – blockage of a vein by a blood clot.

If a woman has chosen an injection or an implant, and more than 7 days have passed since the last menstrual period, additional means of protection should be used for another week.If less than 7 days have passed, additional contraception is not needed.

How to take. You can start taking the pills any day of your cycle. Stop taking – too, “finishing” the package to the end is not necessary.

Pros:

• Suitable for women of any age
• Suitable for women who have given birth and have not given birth
• Before taking the drug, you do not need to be examined by a gynecologist

Cons

• Must be taken every day

How to use.Under local anesthesia, it is injected under the skin once every 3 years on any day of the cycle. You can retrieve it at any time.

Pros:

• The most reliable method (less than 0.5 pregnancies per 100 women per year of use)
• The maximum possible period for hormonal contraceptives is valid: 3 years
• Suitable for both women who have given birth and who have not given birth
• Reduce the number of menstrual flow

Cons

• Painful sensations may occur when installing and removing the implant

How to use.Depending on the drug, once every 2-3 months on any day of the cycle, an injection is made into the gluteus muscle or deltoid muscle of the shoulder.

Pros:

• Convenient compared to pills: you need to think about contraception only once every 2-3 months
• Suitable for women of any age
• Suitable for women who have given birth and have not given birth

Cons

• Injection can be painful, sometimes bruises and bumps appear
• Side effects are more often expressed: acne, increased hair growth (hirsutism)

What are.Combined contraceptives come in the form of pills, vaginal rings, and patches.

Suitable for anyone. Most healthy non-smoking women before menopause. However, all people (and drugs) are different, so you need to select pills together with a gynecologist.

Who do not fit. Nursing mothers, women over 35 years old who smoke more than 15 cigarettes a day, and women suffering from cardiovascular diseases, cancer, bleeding disorders, migraines with aura, complicated diabetes mellitus and liver diseases.

Nuances:

Before prescribing a combined contraceptive, the doctor should ask the patient about her well-being in detail and measure blood pressure. The drug is not suitable for women with arterial hypertension. If the pressure is below 140/90 mm Hg. Art., the medicine can be used.

If ​​more than 5 days have passed since the last menstrual period, in order not to get pregnant, you need to use additional methods of contraception for another week. If less than 5 days have passed since your last menstrual period, additional contraception is not needed.If a woman does not have a menstrual cycle and is not pregnant, you can start drinking the drug on any day of the cycle. Just in case, you need to use additional methods of contraception for another week.

Combined contraceptives are not recommended for the first 3-6 weeks after childbirth. This will reduce the risk of thromboembolism.

How to take. The tablets should be taken one piece a day at the same time. If you miss even one day, there is a small risk of getting pregnant.

Most of the modern combination drugs are 21 tablets, after which the woman does not take the drug for 7 days, or 24 tablets with the active ingredient and 4 “pacifiers” without the active ingredient. These pills are more convenient because they can be taken continuously.

Pros:

• Help to normalize the cycle for women with irregular periods
• Reduce menstrual flow by 40-50%
• Reduce menstrual pain in 70-80% of patients
• Can be used to treat acne
• Reduce blood loss and pain myoma and endometriosis
• Reduces the risk of certain cancers (ovarian cancer, endometrial cancer and colorectal cancer)
• Strengthens bones

Cons:

• Must be taken every day at the same time
• Not recommended for nursing mothers
• Not suitable for everyone: there are contraindications
• Side effects: from spotting in the first month of admission to headaches and depression

How to use.Insert into the vagina once a month, like a tampon. After 3 weeks, the ring should be removed and a week off. After a week, insert a new ring.

Pros:

• All the advantages of pills, but the ring is more convenient to use
• Compared to a patch: invisible on the body

Cons:

• Can be felt inside the vagina
• Can fall out – then it needs to be rinsed under running water and insert again
• The risk of vaginal microflora disorders increases, symptoms may worsen in people with vaginosis and candidiasis
• May interfere with intercourse

How to use.Stick on belly, thigh or shoulder. The patch should be changed once a week. After three weeks, take a break for one week.

• All the advantages of pills, but the plaster is more convenient to use
• Compared to a vaginal ring: no problems with discomfort and vaginal microflora

Cons:

It gets dirty quickly and does not look aesthetically pleasing – Can often come off, especially in summer – More often needs to be replaced than a ring – May cause skin irritation – Few options: it is difficult to find an alternative patch if it causes side effects

If a woman has a regular cycle, and contraceptives are needed only so that an unplanned pregnancy does not occur, get tested for sex hormones, biochemistry and blood clotting are not necessary.

If a woman has had health problems, the doctor may prescribe additional tests. This will help ensure that the contraceptive method you choose will do more good than harm.

If the absence of menstruation does not bother you, you do not need to cancel hormonal contraceptives, it will not harm your health, and will not affect your ability to have children in the future.

To avoid your period, you can use birth control pills continuously. And if you put in an implant or regularly inject, there is a chance that your periods will go away on their own.

Contraceptives with progestins: tablets. If you remember about a missed pill within 3 hours, just drink it and continue taking as usual. Two days after that, you will have to additionally protect yourself.

If you remembered the pill later, the recommendations are the same. The only problem is that the reliability of contraception in this situation is a big question. If you keep forgetting about pills, you may be better off with another method of contraception. Contraceptives with progestins: injections.If you are less than 2 weeks late with the injection, just give it – no additional contraceptive measures are needed. If longer – too. The main thing is to make sure that you are not pregnant, and additionally use protection for a week.

Combined contraceptives: tablets. If you remember about a missed pill within two days, just take it, and then continue taking the pills “on schedule.” It’s okay if you have to take two tablets in one day. In addition, you do not need to protect yourself.

If more than two days have passed, you need to take only the last missed pill, and then drink it according to schedule. True, in this case, you will have to use additional methods of contraception for a week – for example, a condom.

The risk of getting pregnant depends on which pill you forget about. If this happens at the beginning or at the end of taking the pills with the active substance, the chance of getting pregnant is higher. In this situation, it is worth consulting with your doctor and insuring yourself, even if less than 2 days have passed.

Combined contraceptives: ring, plaster. If less than two days have passed, simply insert a new ring or apply a patch. Additional protection is not necessary. If more than 2 days have passed, use a contraceptive and additionally protect yourself for a week. It is worth talking to your doctor: if you have had unprotected contacts, you may need emergency methods of contraception.

In this situation, doctors advise you to just take another pill – regardless of which contraceptive you used.If nausea and diarrhea persist for more than two days, act as if you missed a pill.

Side effects did not go away within 2-3 months from the start of the contraceptive intake. If the bloody discharge and nausea persist, you need to see a doctor to change the drug.

Feels bitter in the mouth, severe dizziness and bleeding. These symptoms persist over time. If they appear, you should immediately consult a doctor to change the drug.

• The correct hormonal contraception method is a reliable and safe way to avoid unplanned pregnancy.
• Hormonal contraceptives have contraindications, limitations and side effects. You need to choose a contraceptive together with your doctor.
• If the absence of your period does not bother you, it is not necessary to take a break from taking contraceptives. To maintain health, there is no need to endure menstruation.
• If the side effects of contraceptives do not go away within 2-3 months, you need to see your doctor to help you choose the most suitable contraceptive.

Oral contraceptive use and pregnancy Online magazine

Every year 1-10 women out of 10,000 women who use this method of protection encounter pregnancy with combined oral contraceptives (COCs).Although according to the instructions only in the first 7 days of taking COCs, it is recommended to additionally use the barrier method (condom, etc.).

To determine how reliable a particular method of contraception is, an American biologist created the Pearl Index, based solely on experiments.

It reflects the number of pregnancies among 100 girls who use any kind of contraceptive for one year. The lower the index value, the more reliable the investigated method of contraception.The most common method – a condom – has an index of 7-14%. The reception of hormonal contraceptive pills is more effective (the index is 0.1 -0.9).

What is the reason for the “failure” of the drug? Let’s try to figure it out, because when taking COCs, every woman wants to be confident in the result.

1. “Wrong” selection of a contraceptive
Often, being pregnant while taking COCs, the patient blames herself or the doctor for the wrong pills.In fact, this is not the case. All COCs have a similar composition, contain estrogens (ethinylestradiol) and gestagens (analogs of natural progesterone), and the differences between them are only in the chemical structure of these substances and their dosages. In any case, the mechanism of action of all such hormonal tablets is to block ovulation.

Gestagen-containing contraceptive pills (mini-pills) do not block ovulation in 100% of cases, but they thicken cervical mucus, preventing sperm from entering the uterus and preventing implantation of the ovum.Most often they are prescribed for unstable ovulation, for nursing mothers, for example.

Thus, all oral contraceptives are reasonably reliable.

2. Violation of the regimen of taking pills
Taking OC is usually started from 2-5 days of the menstrual cycle, that is, immediately after the next menstruation begins and there is confidence in the absence of pregnancy. Many people think that the contraceptive effect of the drug appears immediately, literally from the first pill, in fact it is not.That is why it is recommended to use additional methods of protection in the first 7-14 days from the start of COC use.

Also, the instructions for any COC say that the tablets must be taken every day at the same time. Violation of the regimen can actually cause pregnancy.

If the delay in taking the pill is more than 12 hours, you cannot count on reliable protection. You need to immediately take the missed dose, the next one at the usual time, and for the next seven days, in addition to COCs, use other means of protection, such as a condom or spermicides.

3. Stomach upset
If vomiting occurs within three hours after taking the next COC tablet, it is likely that the medicine was not absorbed and came out with vomit. If, after the cessation of vomiting, you do not immediately take an extra dose of the drug, it is quite possible that the contraceptive effect will weaken and the onset of pregnancy.

If diarrhea occurs, you should not worry, although you can play it safe and take another pill, there will be no harm from it, but the protection will be strengthened and pregnancy will not occur – that’s for sure.

4. Taking medications
A decrease in the effectiveness of hormonal protection can be caused by the interaction of COCs with other medications. In particular, it has been proven that the contraceptive ability of pills is influenced by antibiotics from the rifampicin and ampicillin groups, non-steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs, as well as drugs that affect the enzymatic activity of the liver and accelerate the excretion of hormones from the body.

You should always inform your doctor about the use of a hormonal method of contraception and, if it is not possible to replace the drug, use additional methods of protection against unwanted pregnancy.Typically, you will need to use a condom or spermicide within 4 weeks of stopping your medication due to illness. If there is a need for long-term treatment, COCs should be abandoned in favor of other methods of contraception.

5. Intermenstrual spotting
By itself, the discharge does not reduce the effectiveness of OK, rather, there is a feedback. The appearance of bloody discharge between menstruation indicates that the woman’s body does not have enough hormones introduced from the outside in order to reliably insure her against unwanted pregnancy.

When bloody discharge from the genital tract appears, it is recommended to stop taking the tablets from the package and discuss with the attending gynecologist to replace this drug with a higher-dose one. In conclusion, I would like to say that the onset of pregnancy while taking COCs does not threaten the woman and the unborn child. Such a pregnancy can be left, the likelihood of fetal malformations in this case is the same as the average for the population.

6. Pregnancy against the background of OK
What should be feared is more than three weeks of taking OK during pregnancy.If there is no regular menstrual bleeding during a seven-day break in taking OK, you should not start the next pack until you are sure that there is no pregnancy. It is necessary to do a blood test for hCG or take a pregnancy test.

90,000 Contraceptives: A Faithful Helper or a Cunning Traitor?

July 7, 2017

Photo author, Getty Images

Photo caption,

Oral contraceptives are the most popular contraceptive among women

According to the British Pregnancy Advice Service (BPAS), one in four women who had to use to abortion, used one of the most reliable methods of contraception.

More than 14,000 women monitored by BPAS clinics became pregnant despite taking birth control pills or long-term contraception.

They trusted this method of contraception so much that they often found out about their pregnancy too late. At the same time, not a single contraceptive can give one hundred percent guarantee.

However, long-acting reversible contraception is believed to be very reliable, with up to 99% efficacy.

Photo author, Getty Images

Photo caption,

Condoms are less reliable than pills, implants and coils

Oral contraceptives are currently the most popular means of preventing unwanted pregnancies among women. Long-acting contraception (LARC) is also gaining popularity.

These include contraceptive injections, implants, and hormonal and non-hormonal intrauterine devices.

According to experts, the effectiveness of the contraceptive pill is equal to 91%, while condoms are only 82% effective.

As stated in the BPAS, unwanted pregnancies can occur if long-term contraceptives are incorrectly positioned, mobile, or dropped out altogether.

It is also noted that hormonal contraception (pills or patches) can cause excessive and irregular menstruation and thus hide the signs of pregnancy.

This may be the reason that it is women who use such methods who have abortions much more often than others.

According to BPAS, in 2015, among women using long-acting reversible contraception, there were more women who had abortions at 20 weeks or more (more than 5%). For comparison, the number of those who had an abortion less than 19 weeks old hovers around 3%.

In England, Wales and Scotland, it is prohibited to have an abortion for more than 24 weeks. In Northern Ireland, however, abortion is only permitted if the pregnancy poses a threat to the woman’s life and health, both physically and mentally.

What contraceptive methods do women use?

• 45% – oral contraceptives
• 15% – implants
• 14% – condoms
• 14% – intrauterine devices
• 9% – contraceptive injections

Photo caption,

According to some experts, one can only hope contraception is dangerous

BPAS Executive Director Anne Furedi said: “Our data shows that women cannot protect themselves from unwanted pregnancies with only contraception, even if they use the most reliable of them.”

According to her, abortion is also a method of family planning and comes to the rescue when a woman is let down by her usual method.

Of the 60,000 women who had an abortion at BPAS clinics last year, more than half used at least one contraceptive. The total number of abortions in England and Wales from year to year is about 185 thousand.

Photo author, ELVIS

Photo caption,

Long-acting contraceptives such as injections are growing in popularity

Every year, 9 out of 100 women taking pills, 6 out of 100 women with injections and 1 in 100 women face unwanted pregnancies. using spirals.

Sexual Health Charitable FPA notes that people do not always use contraception correctly and regularly. She also notes that the availability of the most effective contraception is poor.

“After interviewing general practitioners, we found that a fifth did not offer an IUD option and that almost a quarter did not offer an implant option,” notes FPA.

General practitioners attributed this approach to lack of training and insufficient funding.

However, according to the National Institutes of Health and Excellence (NICE), long-term contraception can reduce the risk of unwanted pregnancy and be quite cost-effective for the UK National Health Service.

Birth control pills: true and false

Birth control pills are one of the most popular and widespread types of contraception. Nevertheless, many people still have questions about their admission.You have probably heard the phrase: “I do not take birth control pills because they affect my health, reduce the chances of getting pregnant in the future and increase my appetite” – and other similar assumptions and fears. To find out which of this is really true, we asked Spanish gynecologists how COCs actually affect the body. Doctors Jose Terron and Sandra Ortega commented on the most popular myths and explained which facts to believe.

Breaks are required when taking birth control pills

The opinion that after prolonged use of the pill can negatively affect your health is extremely common.But if initially you did not feel any discomfort and everything was fine, there is no reason to believe that suddenly something could change and go wrong. Once you stop taking birth control pills, they stop working. “Nowadays, with new oral contraceptive formulas, there is no need to take a break, even if you drink them for a long time,” says Dr. Jose Terron. “Ten to twenty years ago, pills had a higher dose of hormones, so side effects were more common.But they never affected the reproductive system or ovarian function. In other words, there is no need for a break for long-term use. ”

Birth control pills provoke hunger

You have probably heard complaints from friends and acquaintances that after they started taking birth control pills, their weight increased. But these things are not related. “No study has shown a link between birth control pill use and weight gain. Oral contraceptives may cause slight fluid retention in the first three months of adaptation, but they do not affect appetite.There are contraceptives that, on the contrary, promote weight loss due to their diuretic effect, ”explains Sandra Ortega.

Birth control pills have many side effects.

Possible side effects always depend on the characteristics of your particular organism. Dr. Terron notes that the vast majority of women who start taking birth control pills do not experience any discomfort and continue to use this method of contraception: “As with any medication, the instructions contain information about side effects.As practice shows, after prescribing pills, 90 percent of patients feel comfortable and do not stop taking them. ”

Birth control pills help get rid of acne and restore hormonal balance

Dr. Sandra Ortega confirms that sometimes contraceptives are prescribed for these purposes, but of course they must be prescribed by a doctor: “In adolescence, severe acne can be relieved with oral contraceptives as they lower testosterone levels.By restoring the balance of hormones, the condition of the skin improves. ”

Birth control pills cause age spots

Sunscreen is a must for everyone, and if you are taking birth control pills, SPF protection becomes a must. “Sometimes oral contraceptives increase the production of melanin, which can cause melasma. Therefore, always use at least SPF 15 sunscreen, ”says Sandra Ortega.

Birth control pills impair the reproductive system

Many women who start taking COCs fear that their reproductive system will stop working and they will not be able to have children when they want to one day.But Dr. Jose Terron refutes this claim, explaining that “birth control pills work by preventing ovulation in the middle of the menstrual cycle, thereby eliminating the secretion of hormones in the body. The reproductive system is temporarily blocked, but it recovers easily once you stop taking oral contraceptives. It doesn’t matter how long you take them. If you have difficulties with pregnancy, you should definitely look for the reasons elsewhere. ”

After you stop taking the pill, you can get pregnant right away.

There are those who, on the contrary, think that after they stop taking the pill, they will immediately become pregnant.But this is just another fiction. José Terron explains: “This statement is completely wrong. If contraceptives worked this way, we would prescribe them for those with fertility problems. Oral contraceptives do not promote or hinder pregnancy. They only temporarily block hormonal functions, which are fully restored as soon as you stop taking the pills. ”

Birth control pills cause mood swings and irritability

Frequent mood swings and irritability are among the possible side effects, but can also be caused by external factors.“It is very difficult to correlate mood swings and irritability with taking birth control pills because these are very subjective symptoms and can be caused by many external factors. We are sad, upset and happy for various reasons, and most often this is completely unrelated to taking oral contraceptives. Therefore, we cannot unequivocally answer that the statement above is fiction, but we cannot confirm it either. You yourself have to understand how comfortable you are with this method of contraception, because it is something very individual and multifactorial, ”explains Jose Terron.

Birth control pills may stop working due to certain medications.

“This is actually the case. Therefore, if you use oral contraceptives, then you should take into account that when taking some medications, the effect of the pills may be dulled. As a rule, they are classified as antibiotics. For example, rifampicin and rifabutin reduce the effectiveness of birth control pills. Always consult your doctor to be sure. He will prescribe barrier drugs to avoid the risk of pregnancy until you stop taking antibiotics, ”warns Sandra Ortega.

Ana Gándara / vogue.