How do birth control pills affect your body when you stop taking them. What changes can you expect in your menstrual cycle after quitting contraceptives. How soon can you get pregnant after stopping birth control. What are the potential side effects of discontinuing hormonal contraception.

The Impact of Discontinuing Birth Control on Your Body

When you decide to stop taking birth control pills or using other hormonal contraceptives, your body undergoes various changes as it adjusts to the absence of synthetic hormones. Understanding these potential effects can help you prepare for the transition and make informed decisions about your reproductive health.

Fertility and Pregnancy

One of the most significant changes after stopping birth control is the return of fertility. Many women wonder how quickly they can become pregnant after discontinuing contraceptives. Contrary to popular belief, pregnancy can occur sooner than expected. Research indicates that pregnancy rates for former pill users are comparable to those who used barrier methods like condoms. In fact, up to 96% of women who stopped taking the pill conceived within a year, with over half becoming pregnant within six months.

It’s important to note that the time to conception may vary depending on the type of birth control used. For instance, women who used injectable contraceptives like Depo-Provera might experience a longer delay, potentially up to a year, before fertility returns to normal levels.

Menstrual Cycle Changes

Your menstrual cycle may experience some irregularities after stopping birth control. Even if you had regular periods before starting contraceptives, it could take a few months for your cycle to stabilize. Women who previously had irregular periods might find their cycles becoming unpredictable again, as the consistent schedule they enjoyed while on birth control was due to the hormones in the pill.

In some cases, women who experienced amenorrhea (absence of periods) while on birth control may need several months for their menstrual cycles to resume. It’s crucial to be patient during this adjustment period and consult with your healthcare provider if you have concerns about prolonged irregularities.

Common Side Effects of Stopping Birth Control

As your body readjusts to its natural hormonal balance, you may experience various side effects. These can vary from person to person and may depend on your individual physiology and the type of birth control you were using.

Changes in Menstrual Flow and Cramping

Many women notice changes in their menstrual flow after stopping birth control. Periods may become heavier and accompanied by increased cramping, especially if you experienced heavy flows and pain before starting contraceptives. The hormones in birth control often help regulate and lighten menstrual bleeding, so their absence can lead to a return of previous menstrual patterns.

Return of Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

Birth control pills, particularly certain formulations, help balance hormones that can cause mood swings, depression, anxiety, and irritability associated with PMS. Without this hormonal regulation, you may experience a return or intensification of PMS symptoms.

Ovulation Symptoms

Most hormonal contraceptives work by preventing ovulation. Once you stop taking them, your body may resume ovulating, which can lead to mild cramping on one side of your pelvis as your ovary releases an egg. You might also notice an increase in vaginal discharge around ovulation time.

Physical and Emotional Changes After Stopping Birth Control

Discontinuing birth control can lead to various physical and emotional changes as your body readjusts to its natural hormonal cycles.

Weight Fluctuations

Some women may experience weight changes after stopping birth control. Those who used progestin-only methods (like injections, hormonal IUDs, or certain pills) might notice a slight decrease in weight. However, it’s important to note that significant weight loss is more likely to result from improved diet and increased physical activity rather than simply discontinuing birth control.

Skin and Hair Changes

Birth control pills can help correct hormone imbalances that contribute to acne and unwanted hair growth. When you stop taking them, these issues may return. If you experienced improvements in your skin or reduction in unwanted hair while on birth control, you might notice a resurgence of these concerns after discontinuation.

Libido Changes

A small percentage of women report changes in their sex drive after stopping birth control. While some women experience a decrease in libido while on very low-dose pills, about 15% of women in one study reported an increase in sexual desire after discontinuing hormonal contraceptives.

Long-Term Health Benefits of Past Birth Control Use

Despite discontinuing birth control, you may still benefit from some of its long-term protective effects, particularly if you used it for an extended period.

Cancer Risk Reduction

One of the most significant benefits of long-term birth control use is the reduced risk of certain cancers. Women who have used birth control pills for an extended period may continue to have a lower risk of ovarian and endometrial cancer even after stopping. This protective effect can persist for years after discontinuation.

Protection Against Non-Cancerous Conditions

Long-term use of birth control pills may also offer ongoing protection against certain non-cancerous conditions. These include fibrocystic breast disease, a common, benign breast condition, and uterine fibroids. The protective effects may continue even after you stop taking the pill, provided you used it for a sufficient duration.

How to Safely Stop Different Types of Birth Control

The process of stopping birth control can vary depending on the type of contraceptive you’ve been using. It’s always recommended to consult with your healthcare provider before discontinuing any form of birth control to discuss potential side effects, fertility expectations, and alternative contraception options if needed.

Stopping Oral Contraceptives

For women taking combination birth control pills (containing both estrogen and progestin), you can stop at any time without needing to finish your current pack. However, be aware that this may cause some irregularity in your menstrual cycle. Your period should return within three months, but if it doesn’t, consult your healthcare provider.

If you’re using the minipill (progestin-only), you can also stop whenever you choose. Keep in mind that the minipill is slightly less effective at preventing pregnancy compared to combination pills, so you’ll need to use an alternative form of contraception immediately if you want to avoid pregnancy.

Removing Long-Acting Contraceptives

Long-acting reversible contraceptives (LARCs) like implants and intrauterine devices (IUDs) require professional removal. The implant, a small rod inserted under the skin of your upper arm, typically lasts for three years but can be removed earlier if desired. Similarly, hormonal and copper IUDs can be removed by a healthcare provider at any time, regardless of how long they’ve been in place.

Preparing for Life After Birth Control

As you transition off birth control, it’s essential to be prepared for the changes your body may experience and to have a plan in place for your future reproductive health needs.

Monitoring Your Cycle

After stopping birth control, start tracking your menstrual cycle. This can help you identify when your body returns to its natural rhythm and can be particularly useful if you’re planning to conceive or if you want to use natural family planning methods for contraception. There are many apps and tools available to help you track your cycle accurately.

Alternative Contraception Methods

If you’re not planning to conceive, consider alternative contraception methods. Options include barrier methods like condoms or diaphragms, non-hormonal IUDs, or natural family planning techniques. Discuss these options with your healthcare provider to find the best fit for your lifestyle and health needs.

Managing Side Effects

Be prepared to manage potential side effects as your body adjusts. This might include using over-the-counter pain relievers for menstrual cramps, adopting skincare routines for potential acne flare-ups, or seeking support for mood changes related to the return of PMS symptoms.

When to Consult Your Healthcare Provider

While many changes after stopping birth control are normal, there are situations where you should seek medical advice. Consult your healthcare provider if:

• Your period doesn’t return within three months of stopping birth control
• You experience unusually heavy bleeding or severe pain
• You have concerns about fertility or are having difficulty conceiving
• You develop new or worsening symptoms that are impacting your quality of life
• You need guidance on alternative contraception methods

Your healthcare provider can offer personalized advice, address any concerns, and help ensure a smooth transition as you stop taking birth control.

Embracing Your Natural Hormonal Balance

Stopping birth control is a significant decision that can impact various aspects of your health and well-being. As you transition away from hormonal contraceptives, you may discover new aspects of your natural cycle and hormonal patterns. This can be an opportunity to become more in tune with your body and its rhythms.

Listening to Your Body

Pay attention to the signals your body sends throughout your menstrual cycle. You may notice changes in energy levels, mood, and physical sensations at different points in your cycle. This awareness can help you make informed decisions about your health, lifestyle, and even your daily activities.

Holistic Health Approaches

Consider incorporating holistic health practices to support your body during this transition. This might include adjusting your diet to support hormonal balance, engaging in regular exercise, practicing stress-reduction techniques like meditation or yoga, and ensuring you get adequate sleep. These lifestyle factors can play a significant role in managing any symptoms or changes you experience after stopping birth control.

Remember, every woman’s experience with stopping birth control is unique. Be patient with your body as it adjusts, and don’t hesitate to seek support from healthcare professionals or support groups if needed. With the right information and preparation, you can navigate this transition smoothly and confidently.

10 Things That May Happen When You Quit Birth Control Pills

Written by WebMD Editorial Contributors

Medically Reviewed by Murtaza Cassoobhoy, MD on March 09, 2023

• Side Effects of Stopping the Pill After Prolonged Use
• How to Stop Taking Birth Control 
•  Why You May Want to Stop Taking Birth Control

You probably felt a few changes when you started taking birth control pills, like nausea or tender breasts. So it makes sense that you may feel different again when you stop taking them.

Any type of hormone-based birth control can change how you feel, whether it’s pills, the patch, a vaginal ring (Annovera, NuvaRing), hormonal IUDs (Kyleena, Liletta, Mirena, Skyla), injections (Depo-Provera) or an implanted rod (Nexplanon). 

Everybody’s different, and some of the effects you notice might depend on symptoms you had before you started taking the pill. But a few changes are common:

1.  You could get pregnant. And before you say, “Duh,” keep in mind that it could happen sooner than you think. Many women think it takes a long time to conceive after they stop the pill, but research shows pregnancy rates are about the same as those for women who had used barrier methods (like condoms). Up to 96% of former pill users got pregnant within a year. And in one study, more than half were pregnant at 6 months. But it may take more time — up to a year — after you stop injections like Depo-Provera.

2. Your cycle may get wacky. Even if your periods were like clockwork before you started birth control, it might take a few months for them to straighten out after you stop. And if you had irregular periods, you’ll probably be off-kilter again — the reliable schedule you enjoyed (or the long breaks between periods) came from the hormones in the pill. If your periods stopped altogether, it may take a few months for them to start up again.

3. Your periods could be heavier and cause more cramping. If you had lots of bleeding and pain before you started, it’s likely your heavy flow will return. 

4. PMS may come back, too. The pill, especially some formulas, helps your body level out the hormonal chaos that can make you feel depressed, anxious, and irritable. Without that balancing, you may start feeling moody again.

5. You may have mid-month twinges. Most hormonal methods of birth control work by keeping you from ovulating. So once your body starts ovulating again, you may feel mild cramping on one side of your pelvis as your ovary releases an egg. You may also have more vaginal discharge.

6. Your weight may go down. Women who used a progestin-only type (like injections, hormonal IUDs, or certain pills) may have gained a few pounds, so the scale might go down when they stop using them. If you want to lose weight, though, you’ll probably get more results from a better diet and more exercise than from going off your birth control.

7.  Acne and unwanted hair may return. The pill can correct the hormone imbalance that makes your skin break out and grow hair in unwanted places. But the fix is temporary: Once you stop the birth control, your hormones can get off-kilter again, bringing back those issues.

8. You might feel friskier. A small number of women find that the pill drives their libidos down, especially if they take very low-dose pills. A few women – about 15% in one study – may find themselves in the mood more often after they stop their hormonal birth control.

9. Headaches may vanish. If the pill tended to give you headaches, you’re likely to get relief when you stop taking it.

10. You’ll still have protection from some cancers. One of the best “side effects” of the pill is that long-time use lowers your risk for ovarian and endometrial cancer. And if you took it for long enough, the payoff continues after you stop. The same is true for some kinds of noncancerous breast problems, like fibrocystic breast disease, and for fibroids.

It’s a good idea to talk to your doctor before you stop taking any type of birth control. You can get advice, learn about possible side effects, understand how quickly you might be able to get pregnant, and your options if you don’t want to conceive. Here are specifics on how to stop various types of birth control.

The pill. You can stop the pill on your own any time — no need to finish your pack. Your menstrual cycle may get thrown off, but your period should come back within 3 months.

The minipill. This type contains only progestin instead of the usual estrogen and progestin. You can quit taking it whenever you want. It works slightly less well than the combination pill to prevent pregnancies. So you’ll need another form of protection if you want to avoid getting pregnant.

Implants. This toothpick-sized tube is a long-acting contraceptive. It usually lasts for 3 years. You can have it removed by a doctor or a nurse anytime. Your fertility should return quickly.

Patches. These adhesive squares stick to your skin and release estrogen and progestin. If you want to stop using them, just peel the patch off yourself. To avoid getting pregnant, use another birth control method right away.

IUD. An intrauterine device, or IUD, is put into your womb through your vagina. It can keep you from getting pregnant for many years. A doctor or a nurse can remove it in a few minutes. If you’re trying to have a baby, you should be able to conceive right away.

Diaphragm. This dome-shaped cup physically blocks sperm from entering your womb. You insert it every time you have sex until you no longer wish to use it. But even if you want to stop using a diaphragm for birth control, leave yours in for at least 6 hours after you last have intercourse using it.

Vaginal ring. You put this flexible plastic into your vagina, much like a tampon. It has the same two hormones as the pill. You usually leave it in for 3 weeks, then take it out for a week. You can stop using the ring at any point in your menstrual cycle. Use another form of birth control right away if you’re not planning to get pregnant.

Birth control shot. You shouldn’t rely on the shot for more than 2 years without checking with your doctor first. But you can get off of it whenever you want. You have to get this shot about every 3 months from your doctor. To stop this kind of birth control, you can simply quit taking the shot. Ask your doctor if you need a backup contraceptive. You may be covered for a while since the effects of the shot can last up to 9 months.

You’re in charge of your fertility. Sometimes, you may wish or need to get off your current contraceptives for health or personal reasons.

You have side effects. Hormonal birth control can affect everyone differently. Some women have mood swings, weight changes, headaches, or nausea. Ask your doctor if switching to another method may ease your side effects.

You want to have a baby. Quitting your birth control is the first step to jumpstart your family planning. Either stop right away or visit your doctor to remove your implant or device. They also can help you with a pregnancy plan.

You have health concerns. Hormonal birth control sometimes doesn’t mix well with your other medications. It also may raise your chances for heart attacks or breast and cervical cancer.

You don’t have sex often. It takes effort to remember to take your pill every day or to visit your health care provider regularly for new prescriptions or shots. If you’re not very sexually active, that can be too much of a hassle. You might find it more convenient — and get better protection against STDs — if you rely on a barrier method like a condom or a cervical cap with spermicide each time you have intercourse.

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Stopping birth control: Side effects and remedies

When people stop using birth control, they may experience side effects, including irregular menstrual cycles, cramping, acne, and weight changes.

To come off of birth control people can simply stop taking pills or removing birth control rings. However, implants and other forms of birth control require professional treatment.

There has been little research into the adverse effects of discontinuing birth control, but anecdotal reports suggest that some people experience health issues and physical changes.

Stopping birth control can cause different effects in different people. Below, learn what stopping entails, what issues to expect, and how to manage them.

Share on PinterestA person may experience changes in their menstrual cycle when they stop taking birth control.

Stopping any form of hormonal birth control removes external sources of progesterone or progesterone and estrogen. This changes the levels of these hormones in the body, which can cause temporary side effects.

Once a person stops using hormonal birth control, there is most likely a higher chance of pregnancy.

Some studies have found that after a person stops taking birth control, there is a delay in the ability to conceive for the first few months. However, research suggests that, overall, contraceptive use does not negatively affect fertility.

Learn more about getting pregnant after stopping birth control here.

Always speak to a medical professional before discontinuing birth control. They can provide guidance about doing this correctly and safely.

In most cases, stopping birth control is simple. If a person is on the birth control pill, they simply take no more pills, whether or not they have finished their pack. A person with a NuvaRing can remove it themselves.

For someone with an internal device, such as an implant, discontinuing requires a minor medical procedure to remove it.

Intrauterine device removal

Intrauterine device (IUD) removal is typically not painful, though it can be uncomfortable.

If the IUD becomes embedded in the uterus, the doctor may use a hysteroscope to see the issue.

Some people bleed or have bloody discharge after the procedure.

In some cases, a person has a fever, chills, or heavy bleeding following an IUD removal. If this happens, the person should receive immediate medical attention.

Learn more about IUD removal here.

Anecdotal reports indicate that discontinuing hormonal birth control can cause:

• changes in the menstrual cycle
• heavier periods
• cramping during ovulation
• premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
• changes in mood
• weight changes
• acne
• unwanted hair growth
• headaches
• tender breasts
• changes in sex drive

Some of these effects, such as menstrual cycle changes, may be longer-lasting.

For example, doctors have described “postpill amenorrhea.” This refers to a person missing their period right after going off the birth control pill. It may take a few months for the natural menstrual cycle to return

Women who stop using an IUD may experience bleeding, bloody discharge, or painful cramps after the removal.

Also, some people have reported a phenomenon called Mirena crash after the removal of the device. This involves longer-lasting psychological, neurological, and physical issues. No research into this currently exists.

Clinical studies have yet to explore the adverse effects of stopping hormonal birth control. The specific effects may depend on the type of birth control and factors specific to each person.

Just like the side effects of starting hormonal birth control, the side effects of stopping it are temporary. Most disappear over time without treatment.

The best approach is to manage each individually — for example, by applying cold compresses to sore, tender breasts or taking pain relief medication for headaches.

Anyone concerned about weight changes after stopping hormonal birth control can follow nutrition and physical activity guidelines to maintain or achieve a healthy weight.

The 2020–2025 Dietary Guidelines for Americans, for example, clearly set activity- and diet-related targets for people by age group.

Once a person stops using hormonal birth control, their menstrual cycle may return to how it was before the medication began.

If a person had heavy periods and PMS before starting hormonal birth control, these issues may return after stopping the medication.

Learn how to manage heavy periods here.

Side effects of stopping birth control disappear over time, though they can last longer for some people. If any adverse effects do not seem to be resolving, consult a doctor.

It is especially important to consult a healthcare provider if periods do not return within 6 months of stopping hormonal birth control. If this happens, a person may require treatment to restore the regularity of their cycle.

After IUD removal, a person should receive immediate medical care if they experience a fever, chills, or excessive vaginal bleeding.

Some people report side effects after discontinuing hormonal birth control. While very little research has looked into this, any adverse effects may result from the changes in levels of hormones.

The side effects are temporary and may include acne, weight changes, and changes in mood. IUD removal can sometimes cause vaginal bleeding, which should disappear within a few days.

Other side effects signal the need for urgent medical care, such as a fever, chills, and excessive bleeding.

Always consult with a doctor before stopping hormonal birth control. They can recommend how to do it safely and describe what to expect.

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I abruptly stopped taking birth control pills, and life cracked: the cycle went wrong, acne on my face, anxiety in my soul, chronic PMS and tears for no reason. Are oral contraceptives addictive?

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Generally speaking, there are only three main reasons why birth control is discontinued. You stop taking COCs (combined oral contraceptives) because:

Do not self-medicate! In our articles, we collect the latest scientific data and the opinions of authoritative health experts. But remember: only a doctor can diagnose and prescribe treatment.

• you are doing well, and you are thinking about the child;
• everything is bad with you and there is no more sex;
• you are doing well, but you are afraid to take “hormones” for a long time.

Let’s figure it out. how you can stop drinking contraceptive products in each of these cases, and whether it should be done.

Can you stop taking birth control pills

When you decide to stop taking oral contraceptives, you may encounter a number of small problems. Abrupt withdrawal of contraceptives is stressful for the body. As a rule, there is nothing hazardous to health in this if the drugs are not shown to you according to his condition. In any case, it is better to consult a gynecologist about how to stop drinking birth control pills.

Let’s try to understand in more detail the reasons that prompted you to give up pills, and find out how to stop taking birth control pills.

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Pregnancy decision

Modern hormonal contraceptives are often prescribed not only to protect against unwanted pregnancy, but, on the contrary, to speed up conception. As soon as you decide to stop drinking birth control pills, the so-called rebound effect sets in – the rested ovaries are actively taken to work. The chance of getting pregnant increases significantly. So at the same time as quitting birth control pills, immediately give up smoking and alcohol in any doses.

If you stopped taking birth control pills some time ago and you don’t have your period, then your wish might come true. The first check before visiting the gynecologist’s office can be a regular test from a pharmacy.

However, if you have abruptly stopped taking birth control pills, and pregnancy has not occurred within three months after stopping COCs, you should consult a doctor. And not only for you, but also for your beloved man: in about half of the cases, problems with conception are due to the state of men’s health.

By the way, it is the excessive activity of the ovaries, which returned to work after you decided to cancel OK, that creates the side effects that bother you so much. We are talking about complaints about cycle failure, abdominal pain, minor bleeding and other consequences of cancellation. Let them be considered a so-called side effect, but do not forget to inform your doctor about them.

Termination of relationship

He left you, you stopped taking pills. Or you quit it and the pills at the same time.

Can I stop taking birth control in this situation? If you were prescribed hormonal contraceptives solely to prevent pregnancy, then there is no need to continue taking them. In this case, the abolition of birth control pills is logical and understandable. And even if you meet a new love right tomorrow, it is better to use condoms at first: they protect against sexual infections.

When you start to trust each other, you will have to go to the doctor again to pick up contraceptives. Even if the previous ones were fine, during the period of forced abstinence, some changes could occur in the body. At the same time, you can check with the doctor how to properly stop drinking birth control pills, if the need arises.

“But if the drug is prescribed to help you cope with PMS, acne, or some other problem, giving up birth control pills is not necessary. Even in the absence of sexual activity,” says Natalya Boldyreva, gynecologist-endocrinologist at the Mother and Child clinic. In such a situation, before canceling contraceptives on your own initiative, consult with your doctor.

Long-term use

For some reason, many people believe that OCs are harmful to health and should not be taken for longer than 3-4 months, oral contraceptives must be stopped and “rest” from them. Let’s start with the fact that COCs are not prescribed for everyone. “If there are problems with the liver, varicose veins, diabetes mellitus, disorders of fat metabolism, hypertension, then in some cases it makes sense to replace the pills with a hormonal vaginal ring or patch, and in others, to generally switch to other methods of contraception, such as barrier ones,” advises Dr. Boldyreva.

“But if there are no deviations and the doctor prescribed the pills, you should not take a break in taking COCs,” says Professor Alexander Tikhomirov. “From the moment of the last birth and until menopause, you can take the same contraceptives.” The consequences if you stop taking birth control pills after a few months of taking them will be the same as if you stopped drinking them after a few years. And the myth that every 3-4 months you need to interrupt the reception, apparently arose as the effect of a damaged phone. The fact is that 3-4 months after the appointment of OK, it is necessary for the doctor to evaluate the effect of the drug.

What happens when you stop taking birth control pills

Progestogens (progestins) stop entering the body, and this leads to the fact that ovulation is disinhibited, and the gonadotropic function of the pituitary gland is restored. At the same time, the synthesis of follicle-stimulating and luteinizing hormones increases. Hormonal restructuring is a gradual process, so if you stop taking birth control pills and you don’t have your period on time, this may be due not only to a possible pregnancy, but also to functions that have not fully recovered. But do a test just in case.

As a rule, the reproductive system can take about one to two months to recover. If you stopped taking birth control pills in the middle of the cycle, it may take a little more time, if at the end – a little less, but everything is individual. Under the influence of changes in the hormonal background, the secretory phase of the menstrual cycle normalizes, the ability of the endometrium to implant is restored, and the viscosity of cervical mucus decreases. Simply put, the body returns to its natural state and becomes ready for pregnancy.

How to stop taking contraceptives correctly

If the decision to stop taking COCs is made, try not to engage in amateur activities. Even the intake of vitamins should be carried out under the supervision of a specialist, not to mention hormonal therapy. We will tell you how to stop drinking contraceptives correctly so that it does not negatively affect the body.

• See a gynecologist. It is better to the one who prescribed contraceptives so that the abolition of birth control pills takes place under his control.
• When can I stop taking birth control pills? Wait for the end of the cycle. If you still stop taking birth control pills in the middle of the cycle, be sure to tell your doctor about it. In this case, pregnancy could occur.
• Follow a dosage reduction schedule on the advice of a trusted professional.
• If you are diagnosed with anemia. then be prepared for a worsening of the condition due to an increase in blood loss after the withdrawal of OK. Maybe. change in therapy is required.
• Eat sensibly. After prolonged use of contraceptives, a deficiency of B vitamins is possible, so try to eat more foods rich in these vitamins, this will help the body recover faster.
• Drink herbal teas, such as vulgaris decoction, which has a beneficial effect on the cycle. But first, be sure to consult your doctor.
• Supplements with magnesium can help you cope with mood swings. By the way, magnesium is well absorbed and when erased into the skin, you can try this option after the abolition of oral contraceptives.

Cancellation of hormonal contraceptives: typical manifestations

Next, consider whether it is possible to stop taking birth control pills without consequences, and what they are. So what are you complaining about?

Mood swings

Even if the contraceptives were chosen correctly, some oddities are possible for the first couple of cycles after stopping contraceptives. You shouldn’t be afraid of this. The body needs a little time to adapt to new conditions, and your own hormones need to work without additional help.

What to do?

• You will be helped by vitamins with calcium or herbal preparation with common prune (vitex agnus-castus, abraham tree). This herb affects testosterone levels.
• Relaxation techniques will also help.
• It is good to introduce physical activity after the abolition of contraceptives.

Delay for no apparent reason

If the cycle was regular before the appointment of the GC, then there should not be a failure after the cancellation. Most often, it occurs in those who have complained about this before. In rare cases, menstruation is delayed by 2-3 cycles, because after the abolition of COCs, the body may not “turn on” immediately, it needs to get used to the changes. be prepared for this before you stop taking birth control pills.

What to do?

If you have stopped taking contraceptives, but there is no menstruation, a trip to the doctor is a must. This is important in order to exclude other causes of delay, including a quickly occurring pregnancy.

Changing the cycle

Normally, after stopping birth control pills, the cycle returns to its previous natural pattern, but sometimes it chooses a new rhythm – longer or shorter than the previous one.

What to do?

“If your cycle is set within 21-36 days and at the same time it is regular, then you have no reason to worry,” explains Dr. Boldyreva. Once you’ve decided to stop taking birth control pills, be prepared to be patient. Sometimes it just takes time to normalize.

Acne, blackheads, oily hair

They are most often caused by an imbalance of hormones in the body. With such problems, COCs with the so-called antiandrogenic effect are selected. If you abruptly stop taking birth control pills, the problems may return.

“Acne, acne, greasiness, and other skin problems associated with teenage hormonal instability will disappear as a result of taking COCs and should not return after cancellation,” explains gynecologist Natalya Boldyreva. “But if the causes are associated with endocrine disorders, then after some time after the abolition of COCs, the problems may return.”

What to do?

In this case, it is better to think carefully about how to stop taking birth control pills. You will either have to choose another, systemic, therapy, or return to COCs. Until the skin returns to normal, watch your diet and drink more fluids.

Overweight

Some women may gain 1.5-2 kg (due to slight fluid retention) when starting COCs. But the abolition of the contraceptive never gives such an effect, and you can stop drinking contraceptives without fear of weight gain. The reason for the extra pounds is something else, and it would be nice to go to the doctor and find the real reason.

What to do?

Think about it, maybe you seize stress after parting with your loved one? Stress (including before canceling OK) is better to be relieved in the gym, honestly!

Pain in the lower abdomen

As soon as I decided to stop taking birth control pills, attacks began to appear almost immediately. Occasionally, this happens after the pills are canceled, if the ovaries, having joined the work, begin to function too actively. They may even swell a little. But it passes quickly.

More often, pain occurs as a result of hypothermia or sexual infection. Or perhaps they are due not so much to the rejection of contraceptives, but, again, your feelings about parting or, conversely, the upcoming wedding. Sometimes the pains are related more to the digestive system than to the sexual.

What to do?

Do an ultrasound immediately after your period, make sure everything is normal. Drink motherwort at night for a month after stopping birth control. And watch your diet. It is important not only the quantity and quality of food, but also the manner: do not swallow food on the go, do not forget to chew properly. And don’t eat when stressed!

Oksana Alekseeva
Photo: FOTOIMEDIA, RUY SANCHEZ BLANCO, Getty Images

Combined oral contraceptive (COC) withdrawal syndrome

Table of contents

• How to take contraceptives
• When to take the tablets?
• How do combined oral contraceptives affect a woman’s body
• Reasons for not taking oral contraceptives, how to do it right
• The effect of the abolition of COCs – what is it manifested in
• Myths and reality about the abolition of FGM
• How to support the body during the refusal of oral contraceptives
• Rebound effect after discontinuation of the drug

How to take contraceptives

The main indication for taking COCs is to prevent unwanted pregnancy.

COCs are two-component pills containing two different hormones, most often taken for 21 days (this is the number of hormone pills in the package), and then a 7-day break begins (taking placebo pills or just skipping pills), during which a menstrual-like reaction occurs. There is another regimen – 28 tablets in a blister, which are taken all 28 days in a row without the need for breaks. As a rule, the first tablet is taken on the first day of the menstrual cycle, but the doctor may prescribe a different method of use.

Each tablet should be taken at the same time each day for 21 days. You also need to pay attention that most COCs have a minimum course of admission – 3 months.

When should I take the tablets?

To reduce the risk of nausea, vomiting or malaise, it is best to take the tablets before bed or during dinner, at the same time. However, deviations of 2-3 hours do not affect the effectiveness of the drug.

If a tablet has been missed, it should be taken as soon as possible, but first you need to determine the number of hours – how much time has passed since the last tablet was taken. The next steps depend on this:

• Late appointment up to 4 hours: take the missed tablet. Such a short period of time does not affect the effectiveness of contraception.
• Late up to 12 hours: take a tablet as soon as possible. A delay of up to 12 hours is acceptable, but should not be repeated thereafter.
• More than 12 hours: take the forgotten tablet immediately. Then, for the next 7 days, additionally use barrier methods of contraception.

In a situation where a woman decides to use the combined oral contraceptive as a form of pregnancy prevention, the gynecologist must take into account many factors in order to choose the best drug. Unfortunately, just because a close friend praises a drug doesn’t mean it will be safe and effective for others. In addition to the gynecological examination, breast examination and blood pressure measurement, the doctor asks the patient about her general health. In this case, it is especially important to exclude liver dysfunction and problems with the blood coagulation system. When it turns out that there are no contraindications to the use of hormone therapy, the gynecologist selects the most optimal drug.

How combined oral contraceptives affect a woman’s body

Combination birth control pills contain two types of female sex hormones: progestin and estrogen. The first suppresses ovulation and reduces the permeability of mucus to sperm, prevents the transport of the egg to the uterine cavity and changes the lining of the uterus so that implantation of the embryo becomes impossible. Estrogen, in turn, stops the maturation of the follicle in the ovary.

Unfortunately, not all women can use this method of contraception. Contraindications are overweight, obesity, and diabetes. It should be borne in mind that estrogen in birth control pills can contribute to easier blood clotting. If a woman suffers from thrombosis (or has a predisposition to it), hypertension and diseases of the cardiovascular system, drugs such as COCs are often not recommended. Estrogen in this group of women may increase the risk of deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, stroke, and heart attack. Another side effect of COCs can be the development of depression, and it may seem to a woman that life has lost its colors. Although, this phenomenon is not so common.

When using hormonal drugs, one must not only be vigilant about the risk of possible side effects, but also pay attention to situations in which their effectiveness may decrease. Most often, this occurs as a result of interactions with other drugs: antibiotics, antifungals, antivirals, and some drugs to treat epilepsy attacks.

Reasons for not taking oral contraceptives, how to do it correctly

The reasons for stopping the pill can be different – mainly the desire to conceive a child or the transition to other methods of contraception. Also, a common reason for withdrawal in girls is the fear that long-term use of hormones can adversely affect the reproductive system. That is why it is important to regularly consult with a gynecologist to monitor possible reasons for stopping COC use.

Taking COCs can reduce libido, many women report a decrease in desire for sexual intercourse, as well as the appearance of vaginal dryness. Often, this is what causes the abolition of oral contraceptives.

What happens after the withdrawal of COC? In fact, when it comes to stopping COC use after a year of use or longer, a healthy woman usually does not experience withdrawal symptoms. Another thing is when before taking contraceptives there were skin problems, PMS symptoms, painful periods, an irregular menstrual cycle – all this can return after a while. While taking COCs, these conditions are successfully controlled by masking the problem, but the main solution should be to correct them regardless of the use of hormonal contraception.

Naturally, it is necessary to stop taking COCs by finishing the already started package of the drug, in no case throwing it in the middle of the menstrual cycle. In a good way, both the appointment and the abolition of such contraception should be under the supervision of a gynecologist.

The effect of COC withdrawal – how it manifests itself

It must be remembered that the body, accustomed to the fact that every day receives a constant dose of hormones, after stopping the use of birth control pills can “rebel”. The consequences of stopping birth control pills are individual for each woman. However, they are all the result of changes in the functioning of the endocrine system. Therefore, the abolition of hormonal contraceptives can cause the following consequences:

• Periodic menstrual disorders
• Deterioration of hair condition
• The appearance of acne (if it was already there)
• Return of dysmenorrhea (especially if the problem existed before starting hormonal contraception)
• Mood swings
• Breast reduction

Of the positive effects that can be observed after the abolition of COCs:

• Return of libido
• Reducing mood swings
• Disappearance of vaginal dryness

Important: the decision to stop using hormonal contraceptives should be made in consultation with the gynecologist, which will minimize the negative consequences of stopping the use of birth control pills.

Myths and reality about the withdrawal of COCs

• After the withdrawal of COCs, the menstrual cycle is disturbed, menstruation may stop

A similar phenomenon can occur and be diagnosed by a doctor as ovarian hyperinhibition syndrome, which is expressed in the form of secondary amenorrhea.

• Pregnancy is not possible after COC withdrawal

This statement only partially makes sense. Indeed, after the withdrawal of drugs, there may be a problem with conception, especially with prolonged use of COCs. However, in some cases, such a problem with a favorable outcome is independently resolved against the background of normalization of ovarian function.

• COCs cause depression and mood swings

Indeed, some women report a deterioration in mood and the development of depression at the time of using COCs.

How to support the body during withdrawal from oral contraceptives

1. Adequate nutrition Compliance with even the simplest diet (do not overeat, increase the consumption of fruits, vegetables, seafood) will help the body during the period of COC withdrawal. Diet can help maintain a healthy body weight and thus keep body fat at an appropriate level. Normal weight plays a huge role in maintaining hormonal balance, and therefore in the problem of how to support the body after contraception.
2. Vitamin supplements It is recommended to take B vitamins that improve the functioning of the nervous and circulatory system. It also regulates the menstrual cycle, improves the condition of the skin and hair. In addition, the intake of magnesium, which is the basis for the proper functioning of the whole organism, will not interfere.
3. Correct daily cycle. The secretion of hormones in the body is largely dependent on the correct circadian cycle. The recovery of the body after stopping the use of COCs requires regulated secretion of the hormone FSH and LH, which, together with estrogen and progesterone, control the correct cycle of menstruation. The appropriate circadian rhythm – early sleep and early awakening – allows you to regulate the production of hormones in the body and is another answer to the question of how to support the body after contraception.
4. Holidays for the health of the endocrine system In order to restore the hormonal balance in the body, you can choose a special cleansing program under the supervision of professionals. This takes into account a properly balanced cleansing diet, mental rest, as well as physical activity. Thanks to a comprehensive program, any side effects of contraception disappear faster, and the body acquires a good physical and mental condition.

Rebound effect after drug withdrawal

The rebound effect in gynecology consists in the temporary “turning off” of ovarian function, followed by the abolition of COCs to obtain ovulation and increase the chances of pregnancy. After the completion of the COC intake, the hormonal background begins to recover, and in an enhanced form. As a result, superovulation sets in – two eggs capable of fertilization mature. Thus, the rebound effect is considered as one of the methods of infertility treatment.

Stopping birth control pills usually does not cause unpleasant side effects, since the latest generation of pills minimize the risk of negative effects on the body. However, the hormonal background of each woman reacts differently, and each body needs time to recover.

Pay attention! During the period of taking COCs, as such, there is no classic menstruation, withdrawal bleeding is observed. Withdrawal bleeding occurs during the period when a woman is not taking hormonal pills, it is less profuse and does not last long.

However, do not be afraid to cancel COCs: physical activity, being under the supervision of a doctor, a balanced diet and positive emotions will help restore hormonal levels faster and return a normal menstrual cycle.

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• Modern contraception. New opportunities, safety criteria, basics of counseling. Podzolkova N.M., 2019. – 128 p.
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• Modern contraception.