Everything You Need to Know About Quitting Birth Control

Most couples (about 83%) get pregnant within a year of stopping birth control, which is fantastic for them. About 15% do not fall pregnant within the first 12 months. But, before adding stress to the challenge of stopping hormonal birth control and fertility, it's best to get some facts together. That's when articles like this can help you navigate the decision to quit birth control methods, so let's get right into this topic, which is close to the hearts of so many. 

 

What is Hormonal Birth Control, What are the Different Types, and How Does it Affect the Body? 

 

Hormonal birth control methods are mainly used to prevent pregnancy and are available in many forms. Some of these forms include oral contraceptive pills, the minipill, hormonal patches, injections, intrauterine devices (IUDs), implants, or rings. 

Because birth control methods contain hormones, you may experience symptoms such as: 

 

  • Fatigue 
  • Larger, tender breasts 
  • Headaches or migraines 
  • Nausea 
  • Vaginal irritation 
  • Spotting between periods 
  • Appetite changes 
  • Weight fluctuations 
  • Bloating 
  • Mood swings 
  • Skin changes (less or more acne) 
  • Cardiovascular issues like increased blood pressure and blood clotting 
  • Coarse dark hair growth 

 

Despite the risks of birth control methods, there are benefits. These include protection against ovarian, endometrial, and colorectal cancer, balancing hormones, improving skin, and enhancing moods. 

However, birth control and fertility methods stop egg fertilization in several ways. These methods change the uterus so it can't support a pregnancy or prevent a fertilized egg from developing on the uterus wall due to the thinning of the wall. Otherwise, they prevent the ovaries from releasing eggs, or they release too few to fertilize. Lastly, hormonal birth control can produce so much cervical mucus that the sperm cannot get to the eggs. 

 

When to Stop Hormonal Birth Control 

 

If you have a health condition or take medication that doesn't go well with your hormonal birth control and fertility methods, you may want to stop using it. Women also go off birth control if they seldom have sex, experience too many unpleasant side effects, are at high risk of cardiovascular disease or cancer, or want to fall pregnant. If you're in any of these situations, discussing your decision with an experienced healthcare provider is advisable. 

 

How to Stop Hormonal Birth Control 

 

No matter your reason for wanting to stop hormonal birth control and fertility methods, professional guidance helps. It covers limiting the side effects, falling pregnant, or preventing conception, whether to stop the birth control method immediately or taper off its use. 

Until you book that consultation, here are several suggestions for going off the various birth control methods. 

 

Pill: You can stop taking the pill at any stage of the pack. It will affect your menstrual cycle, which should stabilize within three months. 

Minipill: Like the pill, you can stop taking this one at any time. 

Contraceptive Injection: You can also stop this method at any time. 

Contraceptive Patches: Simply remove the patch to stop taking this hormonal birth control method. 

Contraceptive Implants: A medical doctor or nurse can remove these. 

Intrauterine Device (IUD): A GP or nurse must remove an intrauterine device from the womb. 

Contraceptive Vaginal Ring: You can remove it at any stage. 

Diaphragm. The diaphragm contains no hormones, so you won't experience side effects if you stop using it. 

 

Side Effects 

 

The side effects of stopping hormonal birth control and fertility methods are similar to first starting with these methods. You might have mood changes, premenstrual syndrome (PMS), weight gain or loss, irregular periods, unwanted hair growth, or acne flare-ups. 

Other symptoms include heavy bleeding, cramping, or having a vaginal discharge. Your sex drive may improve, and you could also fall pregnant, so it really is a good idea to get medical advice before stopping hormonal birth control. 

You can enjoy the benefits of stopping birth control by managing these symptoms, making lifestyle changes, and using over-the-counter remedies. But if these don't work, it's time to speak to a healthcare professional. 

 

Wellness Tips 

 

Hormonal changes can place significant stress on your body. So can a lack of sleep severely impact your quality of life and fertility. However, a birth control cleanse makes a world of difference. Although a "hormonal cleanse" isn't possible, supporting your well-being through lifestyle changes is. 

A few wellness tips include managing stress by listening to music, getting some light exercise, practicing healthy sleeping habits, consuming a balanced diet with healthy fats, lots of fiber, no sugar, and drinking enough water. Go easy on cigarettes, alcohol, and caffeine, too, if you can't give them up altogether. 

Besides these tips, you can complement your nutrition with Premama® Balance Supplement Mix. Filled with loads of goodness, this supplement is the ideal addition to your diet, allowing you to experience the full benefits of stopping birth control and getting your life back on track. 

 

FAQs 

 

How soon can I conceive after stopping hormonal birth control and fertility methods? 

As soon as you start ovulating again, you can become pregnant. 

Will my weight fluctuate significantly after stopping hormonal birth control? 

Weight changes depend on individual responses. If weight fluctuations cause distress or impact your health negatively, please consult your healthcare provider. 

Will my sex drive be better or worse when I stop using hormonal birth control? 

Everyone is different, so your libido could go off the charts, be regular, or non-existent. If these responses concern you, consult your health provider for professional advice. 

Will going off hormonal birth control and fertility methods affect my current health condition? 

Everyone reacts differently. Please speak to a medical expert about stopping your birth control if you have an existing health condition. 

 

Conclusion 

 

Now that you know a little more about hormonal birth control and how it affects your body, you can manage your health and side effects better. Armed with this knowledge, you get to decide when and if you should stop your birth control and fertility methods. 

Whatever you decide, it is vital to practice self-care. You can do that by looking for information from reputable sites, seeking support from those you trust, and asking for help from medical professionals. 

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