How Long Before Trying to Conceive Should You Stop Birth Control Pills?

If you have been taking birth control pills for a long time and wish to conceive, it is generally recommended to stop taking the pills at least 1 to 3 months before trying to get pregnant. This allows your menstrual cycle to regulate and increases the chances of successful conception. However, it's always best to consult with your healthcare provider for personalized advice?

Hello Doctor: I have been taking birth control pills for about six to seven years (almost continuously).
I plan to get pregnant in six months.
When should I stop taking the birth control pills, or can I just stop in the month I intend to conceive? Will long-term use cause any other side effects? Will the quality of the eggs be affected? Thank you for taking the time to answer!

Zai Zai, 20~29 year old female. Ask Date: 2006/01/30

Dr. Zhang Yongxuan reply Obstetrics and Gynecology

It is more appropriate to wait three to six months after stopping medication before trying to conceive.
During this period, the menstrual cycle will stabilize, and the quality of the eggs will improve.
This is generally true unless the woman is of advanced maternal age; in such cases, it may be acceptable to conceive after a period of rest.

Reply Date: 2006/01/30

More Info

When considering the transition from birth control pills to trying to conceive, it's important to understand both the timing and the potential effects of long-term contraceptive use on fertility. Generally, it is recommended to stop taking birth control pills at least one to three months before you plan to conceive. This allows your body to return to its natural hormonal cycle, which can help regulate ovulation and improve your chances of conception.

For someone who has been on birth control pills for six to seven years, stopping the pills a few months in advance can be particularly beneficial. While many women can conceive immediately after stopping the pill, others may experience a delay in ovulation as their bodies readjust. By allowing a few months for your menstrual cycle to normalize, you can better gauge your ovulation patterns and increase your chances of conception.

Regarding concerns about long-term use of birth control pills, research indicates that most women do not experience long-term fertility issues as a result of taking the pill. However, some women may have a temporary delay in returning to normal ovulation after discontinuation. The quality of the eggs is generally not adversely affected by the use of birth control pills; rather, the primary concern is the time it may take for your body to readjust after stopping the medication.

It's also worth noting that some women may experience side effects from long-term use of hormonal contraceptives, such as changes in weight, mood swings, or other hormonal imbalances. If you have any specific health concerns or symptoms that you believe may be related to your long-term use of birth control pills, it would be wise to discuss these with your healthcare provider. They can provide personalized advice and may suggest monitoring your health as you transition off the pill.

In summary, if you plan to conceive in about six months, it would be prudent to stop taking your birth control pills at least three months prior to trying to conceive. This will give your body time to adjust and help you track your ovulation more effectively. If you have any concerns about your health or fertility, consulting with a healthcare professional can provide you with tailored guidance and support as you prepare for pregnancy.

Similar Q&A

How Long Should You Stop Birth Control Pills Before Trying to Conceive?

Hello Doctor: I am currently 26 years old and have been taking birth control pills for over three years, specifically Yaz. I would like to ask if I need to stop taking the pills for a period of time before I can conceive. If I need to stop, how long should I discontinue the medic...

Dr. Huang Yiwen reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, Miss Qian: After stopping birth control pills, you can conceive naturally right away without any impact, so there is no need to worry.

How Long to Pause Birth Control Pills Before Trying to Conceive?

How long should one stop taking oral contraceptives before trying to conceive, and how many months should the break last? Will the break period be irregular? Thank you.

Dr. Huang Jianxun reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Dear Frank, Oral contraceptives can be used continuously for several years. In the United States, 82% of women aged 15-44 who use oral contraceptives have been using them continuously for more than one year, with an average duration of 13 years. Literature has suggested that phy...

How Long Should You Take Emergency Contraceptive Pills?

Hello, how long should I stop taking the oral contraceptive pill before trying to conceive?

Dr. Cao Guotao reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
Hello, it is generally recommended to take it for one year and then take a one-month break. Wishing you good health!

How Long Should You Wait to Get Pregnant After Stopping Birth Control?

I have been taking the contraceptive pill Qlaira for several years, and I stopped taking it in September of last year. How long should I wait after stopping the pill before I can start trying to conceive?

Dr. Tian Yiwen reply Obstetrics and Gynecology
You can start preparing for pregnancy after stopping the medication.