Long-Term Birth Control Pills: Should You Stop and What to Expect?

Q: Long-Term Birth Control Pills: Should You Stop and What to Expect?

Hello, your inquiry is answered as follows： <br>1. <br>After long-term use of contraceptive pills, there may be a temporary impact on the ability to conceive. <br>This is because the components of contraceptive pills suppress ovulation to achieve contraceptive effects. <br>When t

Long-term contraceptive issues?

Hello doctor, I have been taking birth control pills (Yaz) for over two years.
Do I need to stop taking them? Additionally, I would like to ask if taking birth control pills affects the amount of menstrual flow.
I have noticeably experienced a decrease in menstrual flow since the second year of taking the pills; my cycle used to last 5 days, but now it’s almost gone in about 3 days.
Is this normal?

Stella, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2016/05/11

Dr. Zhang Kunmin reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, your inquiry is answered as follows:
1.
After long-term use of contraceptive pills, there may be a temporary impact on the ability to conceive.
This is because the components of contraceptive pills suppress ovulation to achieve contraceptive effects.
When the ovaries are in a suppressed state for an extended period, stopping the medication may result in anovulation.
Therefore, it is recommended that women who have been taking contraceptive pills for a long time should discontinue them at least six months prior to attempting to conceive.
This allows the ovaries some time to recover from suppression and gradually return to normal ovulation, making pregnancy possible.
If ovulation does not resume after a longer period (ovulation can be monitored using a basal body temperature chart), it is advisable to consult a gynecologist for methods to restore ovulation.
Thus, it is suggested that the duration of contraceptive pill use should not be too long; ideally, after each year of use, you should consult a trusted physician to evaluate your situation before deciding on the next year's usage, rather than purchasing and taking them on your own each time.
Although long-term use followed by cessation may temporarily affect ovulation function, it can generally be restored through ovulation-inducing medications.
2.
Contraceptive pills also have the effect of suppressing endometrial hyperplasia (making it more difficult for a fertilized egg to implant).
As a result, the volume of menstrual flow naturally decreases due to the reduced source of endometrial tissue, and it is not due to blood retention in the body.

Wishing you peace and health,
Dr.
Zhang

Reply Date: 2016/05/11

More Info

When considering long-term use of birth control pills, such as the one you mentioned (Yasmin), there are several factors to take into account regarding whether to continue or stop the medication, as well as what changes you might expect in your menstrual cycle.

Should You Stop Taking Birth Control Pills?
The decision to stop taking birth control pills after long-term use should be based on individual health circumstances, lifestyle changes, and personal preferences. Here are some considerations:
1. Health Factors: If you have developed any new health conditions, such as high blood pressure, migraines, or any risk factors for blood clots, you should consult with your healthcare provider. They may recommend discontinuing the pill or switching to a different form of contraception.

2. Family Planning: If you are considering starting a family, you will need to stop taking the pill. It’s generally advised to wait a few months after stopping the pill to allow your menstrual cycle to regulate before trying to conceive.

3. Side Effects: If you are experiencing side effects that are bothersome, such as mood changes, weight gain, or decreased libido, it may be worth discussing alternative contraceptive methods with your doctor.

4. Duration of Use: Long-term use of birth control pills is generally considered safe for most women, but it is important to have regular check-ups to monitor your health.

What to Expect When Stopping Birth Control Pills
When you stop taking birth control pills, your body may take some time to adjust. Here’s what you might experience:
1. Return of Menstrual Cycle: Your menstrual cycle may take a few months to return to its natural rhythm. Some women may experience irregular periods initially.

2. Changes in Menstrual Flow: After stopping the pill, some women notice changes in the volume and duration of their menstrual bleeding. It is common for periods to become heavier or more painful after discontinuation.

3. Hormonal Fluctuations: You may experience symptoms related to hormonal changes, such as mood swings, acne, or changes in libido.

Impact of Birth Control Pills on Menstrual Flow
Regarding your observation about a decrease in menstrual flow after two years of taking the pill, this is a common effect of hormonal contraceptives. Birth control pills often lead to lighter periods due to the thinning of the uterine lining. Here are some points to consider:
1. Normal Variation: It is normal for the menstrual flow to change while on the pill. Many women report lighter periods, and some may even experience amenorrhea (the absence of menstruation) after prolonged use.

2. Cycle Length: A reduction in the duration of your period from five days to three days is also a typical response to hormonal contraceptives. As long as you are not experiencing any adverse symptoms, this change is generally considered normal.

3. Consultation with a Healthcare Provider: If you have concerns about the changes in your menstrual cycle or if you experience any unusual symptoms (such as severe pain or heavy bleeding), it is advisable to consult with your healthcare provider. They can help determine if your current contraceptive method is still appropriate for you or if adjustments are needed.

Conclusion
In summary, whether to continue or stop taking birth control pills is a personal decision that should be made in consultation with your healthcare provider, considering your health, family planning goals, and any side effects you may be experiencing. Changes in menstrual flow and cycle length are common while on the pill, and a decrease in flow is generally not a cause for concern. However, regular check-ups are essential to ensure that your contraceptive method remains suitable for your health needs.

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