• Sexual Health
• Birth Control

What Happens When You Stop Taking Birth Control?

People choose to stop birth control for all sorts of reasons – whether it’s for health, lifestyle changes, or planning a family. Whatever the motivation, making this shift can bring a few surprises as your body re-adjusts.

In this article, we’ll go over the common side effects, the changes you might notice, and how to transition off birth control safely. With a little preparation, you’ll be ready for things like hormonal shifts and changes to your menstrual cycle, helping you feel more in control during this transition.

What to Expect After Stopping Birth Control

Menstrual cycle and period changes

After stopping birth control, it’s common for your menstrual cycle to take a few months to settle back into its natural rhythm. You might experience delayed, irregular, or even heavier periods initially, as your body adapts to its own hormonal signals. In some cases, there’s also the possibility of missing a period altogether, which can be concerning. If you find yourself saying, “I stopped taking birth control and haven’t gotten my period,” it’s often just a temporary effect of your body adjusting, but if it persists, checking in with a healthcare provider is wise.

Pregnancy risk

One important thing to note is that your fertility can return fairly quickly after stopping birth control. As ovulation resumes, the potential to conceive may happen sooner than expected, especially for those stopping birth control to pursue pregnancy. If pregnancy isn’t in your plan, consider using an alternative form of contraception right away.

Body weight adjustments

Another possible shift is in body weight. Some people notice weight changes after stopping birth control, which could go in either direction. Hormonal shifts can impact fluid retention and metabolism, sometimes leading to a bit of weight gain. This, however, often depends on individual factors, and any changes are usually mild and temporary.

How to Stop Taking Birth Control Pills Safely

If you’re thinking about stopping birth control, a good first step is chatting with your doctor. They can help tailor a plan that fits your health history and future goals, whether that’s preparing for pregnancy or simply adjusting your routine. A healthcare provider can also address any concerns about potential side effects, setting you up for a smoother transition.

There’s often a question of whether it’s better to finish your current pack or stop right away. In most cases, finishing the pack allows for a more predictable transition and can reduce mid-cycle spotting or irregular bleeding. However, stopping immediately is sometimes fine, too, especially if there’s an urgent reason. Your doctor can guide you on what’s best for your body and circumstances.

Once you stop, keeping an eye on how your body responds can be helpful. Tracking symptoms, mood changes, or any shifts in your menstrual cycle can give you a clearer picture of your body’s adjustment. If avoiding pregnancy is still a priority, consider switching to an alternative form of contraception right away, as fertility may return faster than expected.

Side Effects of Stopping Birth Control

When you stop taking birth control, your body begins to recalibrate its natural hormone levels, which can lead to some temporary side effects. This adjustment period is normal, but the shifts can feel a bit bumpy. It often takes a few months for your body to settle back into its own rhythm, during which you may notice changes as it re-establishes its hormonal balance.

With these hormonal changes, some people experience a range of physical and emotional symptoms. Mood swings and fluctuations in energy levels are common, as your body readjusts to managing hormones on its own. You might also notice changes in your skin, such as increased oiliness or, for some, a return of breakouts if birth control had helped keep acne in check.

Another area that may shift is libido and overall sexual health. For some people, stopping birth control can lead to a natural increase in libido as hormonal levels adjust. Others might experience a temporary dip. These changes are unique to each person and may stabilize over time as the body adapts.

Potential Delays and Issues in Menstrual Cycle Post-Birth Control

It’s not uncommon to experience a delay in your period after stopping birth control, and there are several reasons why this might happen. One of the most common causes is hormonal re-adjustment. When you stop taking birth control, your body has to return to its natural hormone production, which can take some time. During this period of adjustment, your menstrual cycle may be irregular, and it could be a few weeks or even months before your period returns to its normal pattern.

In addition to hormonal changes, other underlying health factors could contribute to delayed menstruation. Stress, changes in weight, or conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can also affect your cycle. If you haven't gotten your period within a few months, or if you have concerns about missing periods altogether, it’s a good idea to consult with a healthcare provider to rule out any other potential issues.

Alternative Birth Control Options

If you're considering stopping hormonal birth control and exploring other methods, there are several alternatives to choose from, depending on your lifestyle, health needs, and preferences.

Each of these options comes with its own set of benefits and considerations, so it’s essential to speak with a healthcare provider to determine which might be the best fit for you, especially if you’re stopping hormonal pills and exploring alternatives.

Barrier methods

Barrier methods – such as condoms – are one of the most common alternatives. They provide protection against both pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Female condoms, diaphragms, and cervical caps are other options in this category. These methods are typically used only when engaging in sexual activity and don’t require a prescription.

Non-hormonal IUD

The non-hormonal intrauterine device (IUD) is a highly effective option for long-term contraception. It works by creating an environment in the uterus that is hostile to sperm. Unlike hormonal IUDs, this method doesn’t interfere with your natural hormone levels, making it a great option if you want a long-lasting form of birth control without hormonal effects. Once inserted, it can last for several years and is easy to remove when you're ready to conceive.

Fertility awareness method (FAM)

Fertility awareness involves tracking your menstrual cycle to determine your most fertile days and avoiding unprotected sex on those days. This method requires careful attention to your body’s signs and consistency in tracking things like basal body temperature and cervical mucus. While it’s a more natural option, it does require commitment and can be less reliable than other methods if not followed strictly.

Sterilization

For those certain they don’t want to have children in the future, sterilization offers a permanent solution. This can be done through a procedure like tubal ligation (for women) or a vasectomy (for men). These procedures are highly effective, though they should be considered carefully, as they are irreversible.

Implants

Birth control implants are small, flexible rods inserted under the skin of the upper arm. They release progestin (a synthetic hormone), but for those looking to avoid oral contraceptives, the implant is a convenient long-term option that doesn’t require daily attention. However, if you’re looking to stop hormonal birth control, this might not be ideal, unless you’re okay with a different form of hormone delivery.

Tips for Managing the Transition Smoothly

Making a few lifestyle changes can help ease the transition when stopping birth control. Focus on maintaining a balanced diet rich in nutrients that support hormonal health, like healthy fats, lean proteins, and plenty of fruits and vegetables. Regular exercise – especially activities like yoga or walking – can help regulate mood and improve energy levels. Managing stress is key, as stress can exacerbate hormonal imbalances – consider practices like meditation, deep breathing, or mindfulness to keep your emotional health in check.

Tracking your symptoms can provide valuable insights into how your body is adjusting. Using a health app or keeping a journal can help you note changes in your mood, energy levels, or menstrual cycle. This information can be helpful for your healthcare provider in assessing your transition and determining if any additional support is needed. Plus, it helps you stay on top of how things are progressing and spot any irregularities early.

When making changes to your birth control routine, keeping the lines of communication open with your partner and family can provide much-needed support. Hormonal shifts can affect your emotional state, so sharing your experiences and letting them know what you’re going through can foster understanding. Whether it’s explaining mood changes or navigating potential fertility concerns, having a strong support system in place can make the transition smoother and less stressful.

If you want to learn more about birth control, LifeMD is here to help.

A licensed healthcare provider can assist you with more information and guidance on stopping birth control, non-hormonal methods, or finding the most suitable prescription for you. 

Make an online appointment to get started.

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