Menstrual Changes After Stopping Birth Control Pills

After taking oral contraceptives

Hello doctor, I took the oral contraceptive pill (Diane) for 21 days starting on May 27, and after stopping, I got my period on June 22.
I only took it for one month and did not continue.
As a result, my period came again on July 2, and I am unsure why this happened.
My previous doctor advised me to continue taking the medication, but I do not want to.
Is that okay? Is there a chance of getting pregnant? Additionally, I have polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS); could this have an impact?

Wanchun, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2017/07/05

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

Hello, my period came again on July 2nd, which may be related to ovulation.
If you want to conceive, you can use ovulation medication; otherwise, it is still recommended to take oral contraceptives.
Wishing you good health.

Reply Date: 2017/07/05

More Info

Understanding menstrual changes after stopping birth control pills can be quite complex, especially for individuals with underlying conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
When you take oral contraceptives like the one you mentioned (Diane), they work primarily by regulating your hormonal levels to prevent ovulation. After stopping the pills, your body may take some time to readjust to its natural hormonal rhythm. This adjustment period can lead to irregular menstrual cycles, which is what you are experiencing.
In your case, you stopped taking the pill after just one month of use. The fact that you had a period on June 22 and then another one on July 2 indicates that your body is still trying to establish a new cycle after the hormonal influence of the pill was removed. It's not uncommon for women to experience shorter cycles, longer cycles, or even skipped periods after discontinuing birth control, especially if they have a history of irregular cycles or conditions like PCOS.

Regarding your concern about pregnancy, it is indeed possible to conceive shortly after stopping birth control pills. Fertility can return quickly, sometimes as soon as the first cycle after stopping the pill. If you are not planning to become pregnant, it is advisable to use another form of contraception if you choose not to resume taking the pill.
As for your condition of polycystic ovary syndrome, it can complicate your menstrual cycle further. Women with PCOS often experience irregular periods, and stopping birth control can exacerbate these irregularities. PCOS is characterized by hormonal imbalances, which can lead to symptoms such as weight gain, acne, and excessive hair growth, in addition to menstrual irregularities.
If you are considering not resuming the pill, it is essential to discuss alternative contraceptive methods with your healthcare provider. There are various options available, including barrier methods (like condoms), intrauterine devices (IUDs), or other hormonal methods that may suit your needs better without the side effects you may have experienced with the pill.

In summary, your menstrual changes after stopping the pill are likely due to your body adjusting to the absence of synthetic hormones. It is essential to monitor your cycles and consult with your healthcare provider about your options, especially considering your PCOS. They can provide personalized advice and help you choose the best course of action for your reproductive health.

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