There are so many reasons women find themselves on the birth-control pill. Many women take the pill for acne, painful periods, heavy bleeding, ‘irregular cycles’, endometriosis and PCOS related symptoms. But the pill doesn’t treat the root causes of these symptoms it offers temporary relief, and even though the main reason for the birth control pill is preventing pregnancy scores of women (and teenage girls) take the pill as a way to manage these symptoms among others.
Unfortunately, if you go to your doctor with any period-related issues the pill is pretty much the only option presented to you. Along with heavy duty pain meds of course. As far as the doctors are concerned there is no other solution. I have found myself in a specialist’s office trying to find answers as to why my periods don’t fall within the 28-day range and why my cramps and heavy bleeding are so bad only to be looked at like a crazy person for even thinking there could be another way to reverse my symptoms. Apparently, in their world “common” means “normal”. And because so many women suffer from painful and relentless period related issues it’s not really considered to be a health issue anymore, but just a normal part of being a woman.
The problem is that these symptoms are not normal. Although they are common these symptoms indicate that there is an underlying issue often related to a hormonal imbalance. The pill offers temporary relief by masking these symptoms, but the underlying health issues causing the symptoms continue happening in the background and can be much worse when the time finally comes to go off the pill.
I devote two full chapters to the side effects of birth control in my new book The Fifth Vital Sign: Master Your Cycles & Optimize Your Fertility. Make sure to grab your copy today! I also devoted an entire podcast episode to this topic that you can listen to by clicking below, or you can click here to open the episode in iTunes.
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So what are some of the effects you may experience after coming off the pill?
1. You might actually get your sex drive back!
Woo-hoo! One of the side effects of the pill is a lack of or reduction in sex drive. The birth control pill suppresses the production of hormones in the ovaries including testosterone which is responsible for sex drive. Many women are disappointed to find that after starting to take the pill so they can have lots of uninhibited sex, they lose their sex drive. So after getting off the pill, you may be welcoming back your long lost libido!
2. Your breasts might get smaller and they won’t be sore and tender all the time
Speaking of side effects, many women have slightly swollen, tender and sore breasts ALL THE TIME after going on the pill. This may be a welcome change as your breasts may be larger and fuller as a result, but after going off the pill you may notice that your breasts aren’t sore and tender and they may decrease in size. Women who aren’t on hormonal contraceptives may start to observe cyclical changes in their breasts related to the phases of the menstrual cycle. When progesterone levels rise in the post-ovulatory phase women may notice their breasts feeling a bit tender and more full until menstruation when they tend to become less full and stop feeling tender and sore. Conversely when a woman gets pregnant her breasts will often swell to the tune of one or two cup sizes by the time she’s ready to give birth!
3. Your mood might change for the better
For many women, the pill has an effect on their overall mood. Many women notice a dramatic shift in their mood when they start taking hormonal contraceptives. In other words, they start feeling a bit CRAZY. For example in the article “How the pill messes with women’s minds” Jill Foster describes her experience:
…We both knew my behaviour wasn’t normal. My mood swings and uncharacteristic tearful outbursts were, we decided, down to the Microgynon contraceptive Pill I’d started taking several months earlier. Days after I stopped taking it, I returned to my (relatively) sane, easygoing self. Since then, I’ve never experienced anything like it, but I’ve often wondered how many other women have had similar episodes.
Obviously, every woman doesn’t have the same experience, and many women don’t experience noticeable changes in their emotional state, however, for those who do experience unpleasant mood changes going off the pill may help you return to normal!
4. You’ll probably experience a return of any symptoms the pill was masking.
The pill and other hormonal contraceptives provide a temporary band-aid solution for many of the serious period-related symptoms women experience. For many women, the pill reduces or eliminates period pain, acne, endometriosis and PCOS related symptoms, and heavy periods. However, when the time comes to come off the pill you can expect these symptoms to return, and to possibly be worse than they were before. The pill prevents ovulation and as a result, the “period” that women experience while on the pill is not actually a period. It is withdrawal bleeding. A true period occurs after ovulation and it is the complete shedding of the uterine lining, whereas withdrawal bleeding is the body’s response to the sudden drop in hormones during the 7 days when you take those “sugar pills”. The result is a lighter “period” with fewer symptoms. But since the pill does not address or heal any of the true health issues and/or hormonal imbalances that were causing those symptoms in the first place, they will still be there when you come off the pill.
5. Your period may not return for months
On the other hand, it could take several months for your period to come back. Since true menstruation only happens after you ovulate, getting your period back is an indication that your fertility has returned and that you have started ovulating again. After taking the pill for 2, 5, 10, or even 15 years many women are surprised to discover that sometimes it takes several months for their period to return. Everyone has a different experience after coming off the pill. Some women get their period back right away, and for others, it could take 6 months to a year before their period returns. For women who were taking Depo Provera (the shot), it could take 18 months to 2 years before you finally get your period back.
6. You’ll have to find a new birth control method you trust
When you decide to come off the pill, especially after having been on it for many years, it can be quite a challenge to find a form of birth control that you’re comfortable with. Non-hormonal birth control options include condoms, withdrawal, getting fitted for a diaphragm, and using the fertility awareness method. Each of these options has pros and cons and are not for everybody. Using fertility awareness takes the guessing out of the equation by allowing you to identify the days you are fertile and act accordingly. But these methods require more planning and preparation than the ease of being able to take a pill and not have to think about it.
7. You’ll finally have the opportunity to learn how your body actually works
When you’re not on the pill and you start ovulating again your body will (ideally) resume a cyclical pattern of menstruation, followed by dry days, then mucus days, followed by ovulation, then dry days and menstruation again. If you pay attention to the fertile signs you’ll notice cyclical changes in your cervical mucus, basal body temperature, and cervical position. You may observe cyclical changes in your breasts as they change and become more full and tender after ovulation. You may even notice cyclical changes in your moods, cravings, libido, creativity and the list goes on. For many women, myself included, it wasn’t until I went off the pill that I really had the opportunity to learn how my body works and observe the cyclical changes that occur throughout each menstrual cycle.
8. You might discover that you hate the way your partner smells!
Studies have shown that hormonal contraceptives change our preferences when it comes to sexual partners. We’ve all heard about pheromones, but most of us have probably never given it much thought. It turns out that women who are taking the pill have different preferences when it comes to the scent of their partners than women who aren’t. One study showed that women on the pill were more attracted to genetically similar males. Whereas women who aren’t on the pill are attracted to males who are genetically different. Couples with similar genes are more likely to encounter fertility issues, and less likely to stay together since odor perception plays an important role in maintaining sexual attraction [1].
But what happens when a woman taking birth control pills marries a man to whom she’s attracted — and then stops taking the pill?…Marriage counselors report that the No. 1 complaint among women no longer sexually interested in their husbands is that they can no longer stand how they smell and if you can’t stand how someone smells, you cannot be intimate. [2]
So beware ladies! If you started your relationship with your partner while on the pill you may find that you can’t stand the way he smells once you stop taking it.
9. You might get pregnant
Since the pill works to prevent ovulation and implantation it must be said that if you stop taking the pill you may get pregnant! Big surprise there I know. If pregnancy is what you’re going for then awesome, but if not then this point may need additional consideration. We have been conditioned to fear our fertility from a young age by being told repeatedly that we can get pregnant at any time. So naturally, this is one of the biggest fears when coming off the pill if you’re not ready to have a baby. With that being said it is possible to prevent pregnancy very effectively without hormones. The Fertility Awareness Method, for example, when followed correctly is 99.6% effective [3]. It involves a fair bit of time and commitment initially if you choose to learn the fertility awareness method, but you’ll know if and when you’re ready to make that change.
10. You might discover that you can’t get pregnant
Taking the pill is kind of like putting your fertility on a shelf for awhile. When it’s finally time to take it down from the shelf and dust it off you may find that getting pregnant isn’t as easy as you thought it would be. It doesn’t mean that the pill is making everyone infertile, but the pill certainly isn’t helping matters if there are any existing issues that might cause problems down the road. The pill allows you go about your life without addressing any of the important health concerns that could affect your fertility later on. We are at a point in time where we’re putting off having babies until later in life only to discover that fertility isn’t just a switch that can be turned on and off. When you go off the pill after several years of taking it you may find that it takes a lot longer to get pregnant than you thought it would.
Next Steps!
Grab your copy of The Fifth Vital Sign: Master Your Cycles & Optimize Your Fertility. With over 1000 scientific references it is the most comprehensive resource on fertility awareness and the menstrual cycle to date. Chapters 7 and 8 cover the pill in incredible detail. Click here to read the first chapter for free!
References:
1. Contraceptive pill ‘can lead women to choose wrong partner’: http://www.theguardian.com/science/2008/aug/13/medicalresearch.medicaladvicefortravellers
2. Women on birth control pill attracted to ‘wrong’ sexual partners: http://www.steadyhealth.com/Women_on_Birth_Control_Pill_Attracted_to__Wrong__Sex_Partners_t181999.html
3. Scientific Basis of Fertility Awareness Methods: http://www.justisse.ca/index.php/pages/page/justisse-method-effectiveness
after taking off the pill i immediately have my period and it takes it for almost three weeks. is this possible? i’m really worried regarding this because my period takes so long.
Hi Gina, unfortunately it is possible and common. It can take anywhere from 6 months to 18 months or more for your hormones to level out and for your menstrual cycles to become healthy again after coming off the pill or any type of hormonal contraceptive. The hard thing is to be patient, but while you are waiting for your cycles to normalize you may want to take that time to address any nutrient deficiencies the pill may have caused, address your gut health, and make sure you are taking care of yourself – getting enough sleep, and managing your stress, etc. Your body may need time to find it’s way back after being exposed to those artificial hormones!
Hi. Thank you for posting this information. I appreciate your knowledge as it is helping my transition. I am 48 and went on the pill for 5 months recently. I felt strange, had crying bouts, and didn’t feel myself. I have just had my regular period this week in a month’s time from stopping the pill and have had a very very heavy flow lasting several days. I am less concerned now due to reading this and can’t agree more with these tips. It has clarified to me just what I thought about not releasing the uterus lining during taking the pill and now this heavier flow is releasing all that build up. Makes absolute sense. Thank you!
I finish the pack before I stop taking pills. Is possible my cycle will return the next month after stop taken it?
Hi Ann, yes it is possible that your cycle will return the next month. It is also possible that it could take some time. It is hard to really know what will happen until you bite the bullet and stop taking the hormones!
Hi good morning, I just want to seek advice. Last month I decided to stopped taking my pill right away when my bleeding came. That was happens August 15 …then my partner wants to make love but I asked him to wait until my next bleeding will come but unfortunately never come so I decided to take 3 pieces on September 18 and have sex with him… Is this case is safe.. Please help me to give some information.
Thanks
Hi mam i just stop taking pills a month ago after my period and now im 1week delayed is it possible for me to get pregnant after 3 consicutive months taking pills?
Hi I stopped taking it its been a week I’m having abdomen pain everyday .
Hi Shadaizah. I’m having constant pain every day too since stopping my contraceptive pill. Not exactly abdominal, more lower down. Was yours specifically abdominal? Like you felt your tummy was sore? Please let me know. I can’t take this pain anymore. Thanks
Yes I feel this kind of pain too at least now I know I’m not alone I kind of feel sharp pain in my v and abdomen, sometimes mild sometimes too sharp. The thing is I started using one birth control on the fist day of my period and for one reason or the other I stopped on day six of the pill and since then. Though this wpuld be my first time ever being on a pill, i had some strange discharge which was weird for two days and then I bleeded for a day but I’m still having this strange feeling in my lower abdomen and down there
Hi there. Thank you for this article. How do you deal with the agonizing fear of getting off the pill? Before the pill, my periods were the worst pain that I have ever experienced, and I am terrified to get off the pill and go through that again.
Hi Jen, I can relate to your terror having also experienced excruciating menstrual pain most of my life. My best suggestion is to work with a functional medicine practitioner like an acupuncturist or a naturopathic doctor at least 3 months prior to coming off the pill. This way you can work towards addressing any nutrient deficiencies and start working towards balancing hormones prior to coming off the pill. This may help to lessen the onslaught when your period returns.
Thank you so much for listening and for your advice. I will look into it!
I was put on the contraceptive pill 20 years ago due to agonising period pains and terrible acne. I came off it at end of last year, on advice from my Dr due to my age (I’m 36) & braced myself. My pimples are weirdly in my hair, so easily hidden, and the pain is no worse than on the pill. I’m still not ‘settled’ and have a period every 2 weeks. It’s unsettling, but more of a nuisance. 🙂
Same thing happened to me with my period every two weeks. I’m 36 as well and same been taking it for 18 years. How long till your periods became normal? I went back on the pill but now I’d really like to be off for good.
I recently came off the pill. Was on it for about 5 months. About a week after I stopped taking the pill, my beast became tender. It’s been about 3 weeks now and they are extremely tender to the touch. Why?
There is no simple answer that I could give to you in this context without knowing more information. There are several different reasons your breasts may be tender one of which could be that you are approaching your menstrual cycle. Have you started charting your menstrual cycles? It often takes awhile before your cycles resume normally and healthily.
I have had this too ! I only took the mini pill for a week but had to stop it as my mood changed dramatically ….soon as i stopped bleedkng started and now my boobs are so tender ! Why is this ?
Hi there. I finished a pack on december 4 and had my usual withrawal bleeding in dec 7 for about 3-4 days. No sugar pills in my pill pack. Just a break. The next saturday dec. 12 i took the first pill of a new pack. But I had decided to get off the pill. Dont even know why i took that one pill. The next day I stopped taking the pill. On Dec. 16 afternoon light spotting started, continued the next day and stopped that Friday before lunch. We are trying to conceive. When I went to the doc she told me she thinks that was my first period off the pill… but it also matches the description of ovulation bleeding and was accompanied by some cramps and started 12 days after i had finished the previous pack. Dec. 21 I had lower abdominal cramps for six hours that started very sharp and stopped just as abruptly. I am convinced I am pregnant and this was implantation pain or something. I realize it might not be of course and will test myself next week. I am just confused by the doctor’s comment about my “first period off the pill”. I usually trust doctors I see over the internet. But in this case doesnt make sense. Your thoughts?
Deedee, it could be withdrawal bleeding since you just went off the pill. The only way to know would be to wait 2 weeks and take a pregnancy test to see if it could be ovulation bleeding and if you are pregnant. Otherwise it may be a good time to consider starting to chart your cycles as your temperature will help you to identify when (and if) you ovulated. That first “period” when you come off the pill isn’t actually a period though. A true menstrual bleed only happens after ovulation, so that might be what your doctor was referring to.
Most doctors do not differentiate between periods and withdrawal bleeding, because the difference is bordering on esoteric. The tissue being shed is the exact same tissue whether you ovulate or not, so please don’t not trust your physician just because she didn’t use a specific term.
It actually is not the exact same tissue that is being shed whether you ovulate or not. When a woman doesn’t ovulate her endometrial lining does not fully develop, and that is why “pill-periods” tend to be lighter and shorter. It is an important distinction that women should be made aware of. Also, the only reason that “pill-periods” were created as part of the birth control pill cycle was that they needed to create a fake period for women to even consider taking the pill. Back then women weren’t open to the idea of not having their periods at all. Nowadays women are more disconnected from their bodies and so desensitized to the pill that they have introduced pills that allow women to have their fake bleeds 4 times per year. Many women still believe that these fake withdrawal bleeds are the same thing as their period.
I understand the difference between a normal period and a pill withdrawal bleed, but when my daughter took back to back pills to avoid a withdrawl bleed, she still bled a couple of days into her second pack as if she had stopped after he first pack and procceded to get a full withdrawal bleed with pains, even though she continued the pill. It was as if her body decided it should have a bleed even though she didnt not stop taking the hormones. Maybe mother nature has its own idea of whether a woman should bleed or not?
i have pcos and just came off the pill my ovaries are so tender what can that mean been on the pill for over 8 years now and im in ttcing mode now
That isn’t something I would be able to answer in this format. Have you considered going to a practitioner like a naturopath or acupuncturist who specializes in fertility? Or an Arvigo therapy practitioner?
After 10 years, I stopped taking the pill about 11 months ago…after 2 months my period returned they’re anywhere from 30-35 days apart…but the cramps I get the first two days are brutal and only tolerable if I take ibuprofen a few times a day. I don’t recall these kinds of cramps prior the going on the pill. Will these get better over time or is this what I have to deal with now? anything to do to make the pain less each month?
Hi Rachel, it can get better. When your menstrual cycles are healthy you shouldn’t be experiencing that degree of pain. Have you considered working with a naturopath or acupuncturist to get to the root of what is causing your menstrual pain?
I was on birth control for 10 years and stopped almost 2 years ago. I gained almost 50 pounds in a few months and still have trouble losing weight and feel swollen and bloated all the time. Anyone else have this experience? Any advice?
Hi thanks for the article! It’s very helpful (: i just wanna ask if i can take my pill again any time soon after going off for 3 weeks? Or do i have to wait for my period do come before taking it?
Since your “period” isn’t a real period but a withdrawal bleed you can start taking your pill at any time
I was on birth control for about 8 years and since I have stopped taking in 2 months ago I have noticed an intense increase in my emotions and anxiety. My moods are often extreme, either very happy, or unfortunately extremely depressed. My anxiety has become more prevalent. Does this sound normal?
Hi Krystal,
While on the pill the artificial hormones in the pill keep your natural hormones at levels much lower than normal. After coming off the pill it can take time for your hormones to get back to normal and for your cycles to resume and be healthy. Unfortunately this could be a result of your hormones being out of wack. My best suggestion would be to work with someone (functional medicine practitioner, naturopath) who can help you to determine what is happening with you and your hormones so you can address the root cause without having to get back on the pill
I have been on the pill for about 10 years. About a month ago I accidentally went 4 days without (the first time it’s ever happened) and decided to wait through the month before starting again. I now have canker sores and a generally sore mouth (3 weeks without bc) and am trying to figure out if this has to do with my hormones. I’m also very concerned because I’m reading that it can take months for a normal cycle and I have been starting my period every fourth wednesday for years. I’m thinking about going back on it for that alone. Any advice?
I am not sure if your canker sores are a result of going off of the pill. You are right that it can take some time for your normal cycle to return, and that might be hard to get used to given that you were on such a predictable schedule. Keep in mind though that you weren’t actually having a real period while you were on the pill. Your predictable bleed was withdrawal bleeding, so although it might have been convenient and reassuring, it wasn’t actually your period at all. You may want to consider working with a practitioner who specializes in functional medicine like a naturopath who specializes in fertility. There are so many things to address after coming off the pill to bring you back to optimal health. Nutrient deficiencies and gut health are a good place to start but there are many other issues you may want to address. If you haven’t listened to my podcast about coming off the pill here is the link: http://fertilityfriday.com/laura/ I interviewed Laura Schoenfeld and she talks at length about what to do to address many of the issues that come up after coming off the pill.
I stopped taking pills last nov 24 and my period came last nov 27,it seemed just a normal period.i expected my period last dec 24,my breast are tender and sore for 3 weeks now and have a bloating tummy and keep burping.i took a pt last 23rd but it was negative,i am so confused the symptoms are all the same as pms,but just missed period..
It can take several months before your period returns and your cycles get back to normal. If you stopped taking the pill Nov 24th the bleeding you had on the 27th was not an actual period but a withdrawal bleed. You may want to start charting your cycles to get a better understanding of what is happening as you wait for your cycles to return
Hi, I was on noristerat for a year went off it about two months ago, had some widrawal bleeding but haven’t seen my period since then, my breasts are really sore, feeling nausea and some slight cramping. Took 2hpt it came out negative, wondering what could really be wrong with me. Pls help
It can take many months for your body to recover after taking injectable contraceptives. For some women it can take over a year. Have you considered seeing a naturopath who specializes in fertility? You may also want to listen to this podcast addressing what to do after coming off hormonal contraceptives especially if your period hasn’t returned: http://fertilityfriday.com/laura/
I took bc for 18 years. I am 36 and my husband and I decided in September to ttc. I took my last pill on 9/5, and had my expected light period on the 7th. October came and my period came 7 days late, on 10/12. Still light and only a few days. November I was 10 days late on 11/22. Lasted til 11/25. Then it came back 2 weeks later, and went away for a couple of days, then back again. Have been spotting (panty liners) ever since and its 1/3. And since Christmas my lower abdomen is very tender and swollen. It hurts to suck in my stomach. Is this normal after having had been on bc for so long?
Hi Julie, it would be a good idea to have your abdomen checked out to make sure it isn’t something serious. It isn’t normal to have a tender/swollen abdomen. The bleeding you have been experienced may not actually be your period. Given that it is so light and only lasts for a few days. The only way to confirm if it is a real period is to figure out if you’re ovulating. Have you considered charting your menstrual cycles?
Hi, I came off the pill 4 months ago after 10 years on the pill, still no period, boobs have disappeared and now I’ve started to gets spots on my forehead. Feel better for coming off it but struggling with the spots etc.. Hoping it doesn’t last long!!
After being on the pill for 7 yrs( two different types) I went off them. My period came back and life was good for 4 months. Then my period stopped. For 6 months I had no aunt flo. I initially thought I was pregnant, I was terrified but tickled to start a family with my husband but I wasn’t. As *luck* would have it I was diagnosed with PCOS. I don’t have cystic ovaries, but bits and pieces of my puberty to going on the pill at 18 started to make sense. I was horrified to go from “yay my husband and I are starting a family” to “you’re going to have to work at having a family/might not have one (I refuse IVF BC of the increased chance of multiples and my below 5ft height)” . I’m the only one in my family with it, too. So I loved my post pill body, my breasts got bigger, my sex drive was amazing, my mood was NORMAL!
I have been off the pill since September 2015. Ever since I have had persistent breast tenderness everyday…it is really painful. The only relief I get is when my period comes on. Is this normal? Should I expect for this to go away anytime soon?
Hi Cindy,
It would be impossible to give a specific answer without more information. Some degree of breast tenderness is normal and expected during the menstrual cycle. Usually in the post-ovulatory phase prior to menstruation. If it is persistent and painful you should consider seeking medical attention from a naturopathic physician or a functional medicine practitioner as it is not normal to have persistent and painful breast tenderness.
Hello, I have irregular cycle so I decided to be on pills. Only took one packet n then stopped 2months ago. After attending I sleep with my man after a week I noticed I had symptoms like, nausea, headach, fatigue, sore n swollen n tender boobs, cramps, cravings, mood swings, dizziness n missed a period n crazy back ach for a month I even noticed spotting on my pant once. But my home pregnant tester came out negative. I am still having some of these symptoms. Can this be the side effect of the pill? I’m confused
It can take several months or even over a year for your hormones to normalize. In the mean time you may want to work with your doctor or a functional medicine practitioner to make sure you are supporting your body as you heal
Hi there, I finished my last pack of Microgynon early Dec (2015) after about 12 years on it non-stop…had my withdrawal bleed on the 6th – 10th Dec, but still waiting for my first proper period, so technically I am on CD 37. I have had those tummy twinges the past few weeks but nothing else. I have only had unprotected sex once, which was on 11th Jan, afterwards I noticed it was a bit bloody when I wiped after (sorry for the tmi) and since then I have noticed I have had super super light spotting. This can’t be my period can it, it’s so so so light, I don’t have to use even a panty liner….has anyone else had this spotting whilst waiting for your first period to come back after finishing birth control? x
Healthy menstruation is typically not that light. You may want to consider charting your cycles, then you can confidently identify ovulation without having to guess
Hi there! Thank yoy for the article. It’s answered so many questions for me! But now I’m left with a rather silly one! Haha. I came off the pill around 2 maybe 3 months ago. Purley to learn about my body and check everything was in working order, as I’ve been on the pill scince 13! (I’m now 19). And now I am happy that my cycle is relatively normal, I’d like to go back on the pill as contraception. When I came off I experienced a huge drop in cup size going from an E cup to a B. In my hormonal anger I threw all of my larger bras out. I am wondering whether the reason for the large drop was that I was on the pill for so long from such a young age and that if I were to go back on, that my breast would not return to such a big cup size? Or are they likey to become a much larger cup again?
Hi Robyn,
It is hard to know what will happen when you go back on the pill, but if that was how your body responded previously, it could certainly happen again.
I was diagnosed with ovarian cysts a year and a half ago after having a severely heavy and painful period. A year later (September 2015) I had pregnancy symptoms and a late period with heavy, painful bleeding again but the ultrasound showed no cysts and pregnancy tests were all negative. My boyfriend decided he really didn’t want to have a kid so I got on Mononessa in November. I took two packs with the sugar pills between. The first month was fine but the pack I finished on Jan 9 was a nightmare. I had horrible pregnancy symptoms and hadn’t missed any pills or anything to think it had failed but just about everything in the book as far as symptoms go starting on the 6th and ending on the 17th. Decided to stop taking them so my last pill was the 9th. My withdrawal bleed Was from the 13th-18th. My uterus and ovary area feels like it’s swollen and weighs 1000lbs, painful but not like my normal cyst or cramp feelings and my breast pain is returning. Also I am experiencing egg white cervical mucous. Could I have ovulated since the 18th? Just wondering bc bf apparently didn’t know what I meant by “I’m not taking this anymore” and came inside on the 19th and now I’m kind of worried that I could end up pregnant.
Also, I started using a bio-identical progesterone cream again yesterday (22nd) because it has helped with my cycle in the past. The pelvic fullness/pain started on the 20th.
Hi so I have a strange one… I stopped taking my pill 2 months ago, was on it for 10 years and in the past two weeks I have noticed my feet started to smell really bad? Is that normal? Is it even connected? Is it going to be like this forever?
hie since I came off the pill I have been spotting,is now 2months …I am spotting,I am having headache,cravings,I am worried about spotting.is it going to end or what,is it normal to spot over 2months
Unfortunately it is common to experience symptoms like this after coming off the pill. It can take your body anywhere from several months to a year or more to recover from the use of hormonal contraceptives
thank you so much….can I get pregnant when I am still spotting, because me and man we trying for the baby
You may want to find support from a functional medicine practitioner or naturopath who specializes in fertility. Although it is common to have menstrual disruptions when coming off the pill, spotting over a period of days, weeks or months is far from healthy in the context of the menstrual cycle. It would be ideal to sort out your menstrual cycles and have at least 3 healthy menstrual cycles before even trying to conceive.
I am worried about spotting thing is now 2months since I came off the pill
Hi.i was on pills for 4 months.i stopped in december i got my periods on december and january 5th.on february i had occasional abdominal cramps,nausea,vomiting,dizziness and craving for food.on february 5th i got my periods with abdominal pain and bleeding was less compared to previous.(even before taking pills).i want to conceive now.so will my next period be like that.
I recently got off the pill in September 2015 & finally got my period back last month , my bday week go figure lol . I was on it for 8 years religiously. Well I’ve been thinking of going back on it since me and my boyfriend are house hunting and decided to not let any surprises come before we have more space and comfortable . Since its only been 4-5 months, would be smart to go ahead or wait some more time. I’m concerned I will be freaking out my hormones even more since I have not been off too long and now jumping back in . I see my gyno next week but want some other advice beforehand . Thank you
Hi there! I’m quite confused. I’ve been using contraceptive pills for about 2 years now since i have pcos. After my last period since January 30, we diceded to withdraw in taking pills. Me and my hubby had sex on this days (Feb10-14)
then after 2-3 days we had sex i noticed that i had a brown discharged in my undies. Then abdominal cramps every morning. My prospective next period will be on February 27.
Am I pregnant? Is this an early sign of pregnancy? Please can u help me. Cause I had a job offer abroad and my they’re giving me a few days to decide. Thank you.
Hi there,
I was on the pill for 10 years and last June my gyno decided to put me on a low-hormone pill called Junel Fe. I didn’t like how it effected me emotionally and I wasn’t getting my period. Then in December I started experiencing lower abdominal cramping and decided to come off the pill altogether at the end of December. Since then, I’ve had very tight aching which I assume are my ovaries and the pain is concerning. I assumed it was ovulation but it’s been consistent for almost 2 months now. I did have a regular period after coming off the pill which was a relief – but this pain makes me nervous. Please let me know if this sounds “normal.” Thanks so much
Hi Lynn, it’s definitely not “normal” to be in pain for such a long time. I’d definitely get it checked out. Have your medical doctor run some tests and perhaps do a detailed ultrasound so that you can get some answers.
Is it true that when you take pills when have you never produced it affects you and you dont get pregnant in time ???
Hie I came off the pill end of November 2015 since then I have been spotting non stop…On March the spotting stopped after 2weeks I was having some pains ,pains like period pains then in the morning I saw my first periods since I came off the pill it was my first period it lasted 4 to 5 days.is there any chances to get pregnant
Hey there..On Tuesday 23rd feb I started using microgynon pills I was taking one pill everyday at 8am in the morning
But I stopped using it on wenesday 2nd March last week because my boyfriend travelled to Dubai…
According to my Period tracker ..my period is supposed to start today 6th march
But it hasnt started..do u think the pills i was taking are delaying my period?
I feel little cramps n breast tenderness..Advise me please
Hello! Thank you for your article, it is very helpful. But I am struggling with this issue:
I have been on the pill for about 5 months and developed a severe depression packed with anxiety and panic attacks, nothing like I’ve ever experienced before. I have stopped taking the pill when I realised that it may be the cause for my unusual state – it has been about 1 month since I stopped the intake of oral contraception and I feel my levels of anxiety changing at all times, from low to high and I am specifically anxious about future, past and my relationship with my partner, which I feel has become quite… distanced, and I often overthink everything we talk about and everything he says to me, and perceive it in a negative manner… My life has mostly come back to normal after stopping the pill but not yet perfectly back to how it used to be… Is it supposed to be like this? How long will it take for my hormones to go back to their usual state? *I did get my period after stopping the pill and it was abundant*
I would so appreciate your reply. Thanks in advance!
Hi Maddie,
It is hard to give a specific answer. There are so many factors that will impact how long it takes for your hormones to return to normal after coming off the pill from how long you were using it to when you first started menstruating. The best thing to do is to start supporting your body with nutrition. I just released an ebook addressing your exact question in much more depth than I ever could in a blog comment. I hope you have a chance to check it out! Just click here
I came off the pill in August 2015 I had two normal periods then went 35 days and had a period for 6 days then a break for 3 days then a bleed for 20 days then a 17 day break then a bleed for 40 days then 11 day break then a bleed for 25 days then a 5 day break and so far been bleeding for 21 days I saw my doctor in October where he did a full blood count an ovarian cancer test and thryoid and hormone blood tests which all came back clear I don’t know what to do now as my emotions are all over the place and the bleeding is getting me down feel like going back on the pill although I don’t really want to.
You may want to seek out a functional medicine practitioner like a Naturopath, or a NaPro doctor (google it), or a Justisse HRHP to help you figure out what is happening with your cycles. There is hope, you can restore your cycles back to help but it takes time after coming off the pill. If you plan to have children in the future you’ll want to sort this out now. Going back on the pill will just mask it, it won’t fix the problem.
I have been on birth control for roughly 9 years. 2 weeks ago I had food poisioning (a day after my period had ended from using the pill). About 4 to 5 days after stopping the pill (due to me being sick earlier that week) I experienced my ovulation bleed as I would assume. It’s been a week now that I haven’t bled and I was sexually active with my husband for the past 2 weeks without protection. I am currently experiencing intense lower abdominal pain. For the past 4 days I have had a discharge that was the texture of egg whites but a light creamish brown colour. Could I be pregnant? If not, what could it be? The pain is very uncomfortable and confusing. Thanks
Given that you just recently came off the pill the bleed you experienced would be withdrawal bleeding from stopping the pill. If you are experiencing stretchy mucus it could be associated with ovulation. This would be a good time to start charting your cycles because you’ll get a better sense of what is happening with your cycles!
I have only Been taking bc for about 8 months for heavy bleeding and bleeding for months at a time. I had to be switched to diff brand’s throughout the 8 months. me and my bf have decided for me to stop taking bc just to see what happens. so far I’ve been off them a month and have had no withdrawal bleeding. I spotted once and it was only 2 drops 2 weeks after stopping the pill. We are very sexually active and not being very careful. I just want to know if I could possibly be pregnant or if my cycle will take a while to sort itself out. I have had signs of what I think is pregnancy or it could be just coming off the pill, sore boobs, a lil nausea here and there Moody cramps and being hungry. Any advice would be great! Oh and I’m also 25
It is possible that you could be pregnant. Unless you start charting your cycles you won’t really be able to figure out what’s going on with your cycles!
I was taking oral contraceptive pills from Last 2 month because of PCOS. First when I completed 21 days of pills my period came very lighter that why my tummy has heavier again happened next month. That’s why 3rd month I quitted pills. Now I want heavy bleeding. It will be happen when my period will come..
Hi there! Thank you for this article. I just want to ask because I have been off BC for 2 months now after using it for three years. February, when I came off the pill I had my “withdrawal bleeding” and March I had my menstruation, a week after my period I had spotting where I can consume 2 panty liners a day and lasted several days. Is this normal when coming off the pill or is this an early sign of pregnancy since we’ve had unprotected sex just a day after my period (where I think Im safe)?Thank you!
Hi Rihanna, it is hard to say. It is common for your cycles to take some time to get back to normal. This can include spotting, but if you are concerned about pregnancy the best thing to do is to take a pregnancy test. If you start charting your menstrual cycles you will have a better idea of what is happening and also what phase of your cycle you are in!
Hi, Im 24, i was on the pill for 5 years.
I stopped taking the pill last year in june, my next period was 3 months later, i had 2 ‘normal periods’ (4-6 days of bleeding every fourth week in september and october) i then did not get my period again for 5months which i am still experiencing. I have been bleeding for 5weeks now (the first 3 weeks were more spotting/very light and the last 2 weeks have been heavier but still lighter than my normal period)
Do you have any idea what is happening? or any advice?
Thanks
It is hard to say what exactly is happening with your cycle. You may want to consider seeing a naturopath or functional medicine practitioner to help you get to the bottom of what is happening in your cycle. Either way what you are experiencing falls outside of the “normal” and “healthy” parameters of the menstrual cycle, so you may wish to consider seeking support!
Thank you for this awesome article
Much loved and appreciated
I took my last pill 23 days ago after being on it for 15 years!!!!
And i feel like I’m feeling getting to know the real me both mentally and physically…
I have been wanting to come off it for a long time
But it did kind of work for me although it went against what I believed,
But I have candida overgrowth in my gut and the homeopath thinks the pill is really not helping it
So im giving myself my best shot to clear it and at 31 get to know my body
Im a healer and I always bleed on the full moon, and I think my body will continue to do this…I’m already feeling it shifting adjusting and ovulating and its nice to feel this, apart from my nipples are crazy sore and sensitive to touch…I’ve kept a daily diary also so I’m tracking the process 🙂
I’ve also told my partner just no to sex for this month as I’m so scared of falling pregnant at this time and the energy is there for it to happen so just no 🙂
I am confident I can try the natural method though if I do bleed on this full moon then id say everything’s looking good to try…
Thank you again for this article
Blessings
Hannah
Hi I was not having my periods for three months and no cramping. After ultrasound I was diagnosed with PCOS and my ovaries were all covered in cysts but not cancerous and thats why my doctors recommended birth control pills to stop cysts from growing. I have been on Marvelon 21 for the last two months. Since i quit my pill i have had heavy period. After one week of finishing my period I started bleeding again. I felt admonial pain again like i get when my period starts. The thing is this bleeding is light and bright red blood and its coming every day for 10 days now. I am very worried that if this continous bleeding is showing something very serious about my ovaries and cysts? Please advise. Thank you
Hi! Im just worried if im pregnant or not. I just started to take a pill last feb 25 first day of my period and i went off taking this after 10 days. After taking the pills i still have light bleeding within a week. March 5 when i last took it because i feel like being tired all the time and i felt cramps. Im not comfortable thats why i decided not to take pills anymore. After three weeks, my menstruation resume, april 3-5. My husband and i had an unprotected sex after 8 days of my first mestruation. And after two days of that, i go to urinate more often, i feel cramps evryday and also a tingling on my breast.. Is that a possible sign that im pregnant that fast? Just after two days i feel like having all that discomfort.
You’d have to take a pregnancy test to be sure!
Hi! Just wondering if this is normal. I was on birth control as a teenager for ten years and decided to try and conceive so I stopped taking it. We conceived successfully after a miscarriage. I since have been diagnosed with hashimotos so i have been on synthroid for 6 months. This week I started to take a new birth control (lolo) but found it has made me extremely emotional and very bad mood swings. I was on it for 4 days and then quit as I can not handle the extreme side effects. My question is how long before I will feel myself again. ( today is day two!) Is this extreme behaviour due to my thyroid issue and it conflicting with the pill? Should I avoid these types of birth control as I am obviously sensitive to it.
It’s hard to say how long it will take for the effects to wear off. It is a hard decision to make. You can keep trying different pills until you find one that doesn’t give you extreme side effects, and you can also look into non-hormonal methods of birth control. Not an easy decision!
I have come off the pill after being on it for 25 years (except when trying to conceive and pregnancy) I was lucky for my period to return straight away and a 28 day cycle. My period lasts about 5-7 days but then I get the brown spotting that you get at the start and end continue for a couple of weeks after. I get maybe a week if I’m lucky of nothing then my period again. It is annoying. Can this be that my cycle is still returning to normal (it’s been approx 3 months). It isn’t smelly or anything just that regular period/brownish blood odour. I sometimes get a bit of cramping during this time as well.
I have been off birth control for 3 months now, about a week ago I experienced sore nipples for a couple of days. Then followed mild cramps I thought I was getting my beriod back but only a reddish-brown discharge came out and its been 3 days now.should I be worried?
It is common for your menstrual cycles to be a bit irregular the first few months coming off the pill. The only way for me to really determine what is happening with your cycles would be for you to start tracking your cycles. That would give you a wealth of information to go on, and it would be a great place to start.
I took birth control for about 2 months. after that I decided to stop on August 2015 because I took only 5 tablets. My period gets back the next month September 2015 I dont remember the date. I’m just wondering this 2016 my periods became irregular and my cycle took so long. I had period on january 6, february 8, march 13 and april 19.can you help me this.thanx!
There is no simple answer! The best thing to do is start charting your cycles. That is the best way to determine what is happening with you hormonally and then we would have to go from there ?
Hi! I know you’ve got alot of questions, but I really need answers! So I got on the nuva ring in September 2015, had Normal periods and what not, my fiancw and I decided to try for a baby, so I stopped the nuva ring April 7th, Had a period April 9th through the 13th, had some light brown bleeding and then got heavier April 23 through the 26th. Was suppose to start the next period due to my period app on may 9th and today is the 11th, I have this weird cramping in my groin region, back pain, headaches. Dizziness, fatigue, breast pain, I’m not sure how this all works and what’s going on. Me & my partner haven’t been safe, with drawl method at times and sometimes no method at all just straight in, sorry tmi, but I just need answers!!
Hi Brandi, there are no quick answers that I can give you. Diziness, headaches, back pain are all things that you should be looking further into. It usually takes a few cycles for your periods to return and get back to normal. If after 2-3 cycles you are still seeing these types of irregularities you may want to seek out support from a practitioner, or start charting your cycles to gain a better understanding of what is happening with you.
I came off cerezette in February 2016 ttc, my first period returned after about a month they are worse than before I was on the pill, headaches only lasted about a month, feeling sick sore breasts basically feeling like you were pregnant but wasn’t, if I wasn’t trying for a baby I would rather be on pill than suffering like this, at the moment I’m having a 7 day bleed heavy and painful every 14 to 16 days which my doctor told me can be normal while the hormones sort themselves out, but everyone is different.
I have been using all kinds of contraceptives for nearly 4 years now. Last year I was prescribed Yasmin, after being on the injection and a year later they found cysts on my ovaries and was immediately put on Ginnette 35 to treat it. After 3 months of using I have finished my last pack and just chucked it! For nearly a month I have been using Gynaecare herbal syrup , 3 times a day, to get my system back on track and my period, this will be my first period without the pill that I am waiting for, but only due in a weeks time. For the first time I was ovulating exactly on day 14 of my 28 cycle, I nearly thought I was dying. LOL! Until someone was explaining to me , “but honey you are ovulating”. I had constant cervical mucus on the pill and after ovulation I dried up and I am now 10 days past ovulation and started today to have White thick CM, but it it’s not sticky, rather like creamy. Is this a sign of my period is on its way or pregnancy? My breasts only hurts by the touch all around except my nipples are fine. And after OV I am still bloated and hard. I am new to all of this symptoms.
I was on the pill for about 3-4 years. I stopped taking in January of this year and I have yet to have a period. When I initially went on the pill, it was bc I maybe had 4-5 periods a year so my primary doc wanted to “regulate” me. Should I start getting concerned yet? It’s been 4 months without a period (and no, pregnancy is not an issue right now) thanks so much!
Unfortunately it is common after coming off the pill for it to take anywhere from 6 months to a year for your cycles to return normally. You may want to listen to my latest podcast episode for more info! http://fertilityfriday.com/79/
I started my period the same day I decided to start taking the pill. not very regular in taking the pill on time, I had bad mood swings so I stopped taking the pill after a week of using it, 3 days later I started bleeding for about 3-4 days. would this still effect my cycle? Its been 3 weeks and I have been cramping and all that jazz that comes with PMS, but I was wondering if pregnancy could actually be a factor, not planning on it, just ehhhhh kinda frustrating dealing with these hormones. THANK YOU!
Hi, I was on birth control for a month and just got off. I was having light bleeding while I was on birth control. However now that I’ve completed the pack I just started my period and it’s very heavy. Is this normal? I do have PCOS and I’m worried this might last for a while.
Hi Sarah,
It is normal for your periods to be different to how they were on hormonal birth control. When you ovulate your endometrial lining fully develops, so many women notice that their periods are heavier off the pill. Keep in mind that the bleeding you experienced on the pill isn’t actually menstruation, it’s more like a “fake period” caused by the withdrawal of the artificial hormones.
I was on the pill for six years, took my last pill April 30th this year. I had my withdrawal bleed for 5 days starting May 6th. I’m still waiting for my first normal period to come back. This last couple of days though, I noticed that my nipples are sore especially when touched. Is this normal? I also had a thick stringy discharge 2 days ago. Had pregnancy test 4 days ago and got negative.
Thick stringy mucus could indicate inflammation of the cervix. I created a free download with some great information about transitioning from the pill. You may find it helpful: http://fertilityfriday.com/ebook/
I been on the pill for 1 month in April and stopped taking them on may 17 midpack.. and and been having unprotected sex with my boyfriend alot thru out the day for 2 or 3 days a week after i stopped the pill ..i had my 1st period i guess on June 1st and lasted to the 6th…I didn’t have withdrawal bleeding a few days after stopping the pill I guess I immediately had my 1st period 2 weeks later after stopping the pill and i continued having sex more often 2-3 days a week after the bleed…so it is now July 12th and lately I been having light bleeding/spotting since July 6 and been going on for some days now the 1day it was brown creamy like discharge then changed to light brown watery like and pinkish then day2 it was very faint pinkish/reddish thru out the day then day3 it turn to bright red but watery no clots and wasn’t heavy like a normal period and also it was light..I wore a pad just to see if some would come on there and it was just a small spot size of a quarter but the blood was dark brown on the pad but bright red when I whip on toilet paper…day4 it was still bright red but still light and had some pinkish blood in it and then later on that day it turned to light very faint reddish/pinkish spotting then days 5, and 6,and 7 it was just light spotting but faint pinkish and brown off and on throughout the day and now on July 12 which would be day 8th of this bleeding I was having on & off brownish/ pinkish spotting …i also been having mild light cramps,sore breast and nipples especially when i have a bra on or off and they feel heavy,nausea when i eat a certain food that i like which is unusual to me,peeing more often,fatigue,light headed sometimes,feeling really gassy in the lower abdomen and feel bloated and passing gas alot this been going on for 2 days now And also feeling hungry more…. could it have been implantation bleeding I have experienced? I didn’t know I could’ve ovulated that quickly after stopped the pill..I took a hpt yesterday it said negative probably cause its to early but I will test again soon…if that was my actually 1st period off the pill I guess I probably ovulated sometime on the 3 week in june if I experienced implantation bleeding or if that was just a 2nd period but just acting kinda crazy
Hi,i take off my pills last monday july 18 because the doctor advice me to stop the pills due to my hypertension my last meanstruation was on july 2 i was worried to become pregnant again because im on the medicine for hypertension and my son was only 7 months old can you give me an advice thanks
Good Day! I’ve been taking pills before for 1 year and i really want it to stop due to increase of my weight. I ate less and yet i’m just getting heavier. Last June2016, i just finished the last pack of pills then July2016, I got my menstruation for 4 days (early of 4days from my count). Then on the 2nd month Aug2016, i got shock to see that i have menstruation again after 1-2weeks rest, and its a bit heavy and continuous like it will never end. Before i take pills last year, i went to my OB because i felt stress that time and i experienced 2 weeks non-stop on my mentruation then she gave me meds to stop my bleeding and ask me to take pills to regulate my mens. Now i’m worried due to i stop my pills without her consent my mens will come back to my previous problem. I really want to remove my pills. I’m not happy with my weight and i’m not comfortable with it. hope you can explain to me why im experiencing this mens cycle? is it normal since my body is adjusting due to i suddenly stop my pills? i have a history of having heavy menstruation but not this long. It only take 4days then its gone. thanks!
Hi there! i’m 53 and have been on the pill Lo Loestrin FE for about 8 years for very painful periods. I have Biote pellet inserted every 6 or so months due to very low testosterone (was 17 when i took first insert). Isn’t it about time for me to stop the pill? i dread the thought of painful periods ever coming back but hopefully i am done with menses. What form of hormone replacement should i take if any? Any other advice? thanks! Melinda
Iv been on the pill for 8 years, I’m 24. I came of the pill on the 25th may this year for the first time as me and my partner want to try for a baby. My periods for the first 2 months was fine came for 4 days and stopped, but now there coming and going all the time, 10th-17th, then again 22nd for another 7 days. Will they stop and go back to normal. It’s really stressful I can’t take no more heavy bleeding everyweek!!
I started taking the pills 2 weeks ago when i got my period for the month, after 5-7 days i still was discharging blood so i went online to look it up, i saw that u may see your period up to 8 days before ot stop. So i calm down and decide to watch and see. After 10-12 days i started to get blood spotting, slightly brown colour. I was worried so i decided this pill thing wasnt going to work so i talked to my boyfriend and made up my mind not to take it anymore. Thats 2 weeks ago, now it has been 4 days since I’m off the pill and i am currently still bleeding and what have me wondering if its normal is the fact that when i was on the pill I was bleeding lightly after my period and now that I’m off the pill instead of bleeding less or stopping, I’m bleeding even more. Please give me an idea of the cause of this?
Hi . Am 22 yrs old. I have pcos and for that i took birth control pill for 4 months but now my reports are clear so doc advised me to stop my medication after my periods and now am off from pills and after 16 days of my last periods am having heavy bloody brown dischage which later turns into blackish brown spoting after 6 days and now am still bleeding but my spotting is more reddish and its two weeks and i still have this . please tell me what is the cause . Is it normal or abnormal ??
Hi there,
After deciding to quit my birth control pills, I experienced what seemed like another period just 1 week later. I’m sure it was due to my body trying to regulate itself out and figure out what the heck I was doing! The following month I barely had any flow, which for me is VERY, VERY unusual. And as far as other symptoms, I virtually had none. It was incredible. I’ve been trying to do research on as to what the meaning of this could be. Not sure if I’m pregnant yet (which is what we are hoping for!), but I could be. Tests so far have been negative. Before starting the pill 7 years ago my periods were horrible! Most months I was still laid up on the couch with my heating pad. This month was a relief. This article was super informative, though, and I’m glad that I stumbled upon it. Thank you for sharing!
Hi there,
I have stopped taking the pill two and a half month ago, after over 7 years on it. I still haven’t had my period, and I noticed that my belly is swelling as the days go by. At first I was worried that I may be pregnant but I did a pregnancy test at home two days ago and it showed negative.
Could my swollen belly be related to the fact that I haven’t had my period / some blood might be somehow stuck in there?
Many thanks for your article and your help!!
Hi Emma, it is extremely common for it to take anywhere from 6 months to 2 years for your cycles to return normally. You may want to start charting your cycles to get a better understanding of whether or not you are actually ovulating. This will also help you time sex at the right time if you’re trying to conceive: http://fertilityfriday.com/lisa2/
Hello,
I have always been against taking the contraceptive pill because of the adverse effects on the body and that it just isn’t natural. But i was recently diagnosed with Endometriosis, so i started taking the pill to ease the pain. Well after 6 days i could already see the changes in my mood and my body and i hated it, so i stopped taking the pill after only 6 days. Well 4 days later i started to bleed. I’ve heard of withdrawal bleeding from women who have been on the pill for a long period of time but i’m wondering if withdrawal bleeding can happen even if i only took the pill for less than a week?
Any advice would kindly be appreciated thank you xx
Yes you could experience withdrawal bleeding even after a short time on the pill. I have a great podcast episode on endometriosis. The pill isn’t the answer for most women: http://fertilityfriday.com/shawna/
Went off the pill last month after 4 years of being on it. Husband and I trying to get pregnant with third child. Got pregnant very easily with the first two. I was on the pill after the first child and when I went off of it after a few years then, I got pregnant pretty quickly. Husband and I sexually active while I hoped and thought to be ovulating. About 5 days late now on my period. Very sore breasts, tired, a little cramping here and there. Home pregnancy test was negative this morning. Not sure what is going on. Was reading a lot about my period not coming for several months after going off the pill. Yet, I saw your information about not having sore breasts, which I have. Also, read many women who have had several negative home tests, and were in fact pregnant. What do you think?
You may want to consider charting your cycles. It helps you to know when you’re ovulating and also know if you’re pregnant within 2 weeks of ovulation. Take a listen to my podcast on some of the biggest myths about fertility for more information: http://fertilityfriday.com/lisa2/
Hi, I am 27 years old, I took birth control for the first time for only 3 weeks, then i stopped, a couple of days before my period was due. I bled (assuming that was withdrawal bleeding?) it was the same week my period would have been due. Then i had spotted for about a week after that.. now it has been a whole month (4 weeks to be exact) and i have not had any sign of a period, but have been feeling weird, like having pregnancy symptoms, slight aversion to foods, sensitive hearing and smell, and just “feeling” pregnant… slight cramping in lower abdomen.. I have taken 4 preg test all negative.. My period would have been due the 19th (it is the 31st) if it wasn’t effected by the BC… My gut is telling me i am but am i testing too early? or is this all effects from coming off the pill? PLEASE HELP
Hopeful New Yorker UPDATE*
After a few more days, and practicing breathing and relaxing, I did get my period… Very heavy, could verywell be most likely a miscarriage in the early stages…Also- CORRECTION i had only taken birth control for 2 weeks, and i am pretty sure i became fertile right after, and my cycle went back to normal quicker then expected. I hope this post helps ladies!! <3
So glad to hear that your cycle went back to normal quicker than you thought it would ?
I was on the pill for 2 years and recently decided to stop taking it. My last pill was Sept.25, I had a period Sept.30. I have been off the pill for about a month when I was expecting my period all I got was cramping and a few spots. My breasts are tender and I have been nauseous lately. I’m not sure if it’s just from stopping the pill or if my husband and I are expecting. I’m just so confused.
Hi Courtney, it normally takes anywhere from 6 months to 2 years for your cycles to return normally depending on how the hormones affected your body. Make sure to listen to the podcast I recorded on coming off the pill here: http://fertilityfriday.com/79/
Hi!
First off, thank you for your shared wisdom. Information like this lifts my spirits!
I started birth control 6 years as a contraceptive. I never had irregular periods or terrible symptoms before doing so. I decided to give my body a break and go off them in April of 2016. I received a period right away in May, June, July, then missed one in Aug. My cycle then returned in Sept, and October. Once October came around I started experiencing, constant bloating, backaches, and abdominal tightness. I am thin, eat a Whole Foods plant based diet, take supplements, i’m gluten-free, soy and dairy free.
My gyno diagnosed me with PCOS because of the classic “string of pearls” on both my ovaries along with my symptoms. He said it was rare that someone of my build, health would have them on my ovaries and want me to come back into two months after starting by again.
My questions is, as a healthy woman how have I been diagnosed with this? Could being on birth control caused my PCOS months after coming off of it? Something I’ve never had before and as a healthy, thin being? I’m considering going back onto the birth control because I don’t know how to address these symptoms further as I already eat well and my gyno suggests it is to maintain my fertility. I am feeling very confused, lost and conflicted. Any advice is immensely appreciated!
Warmth & love,
Lindsey
Hi Lindsey…if you are not eating any meat then it is possible that your diet is off balance, specifically related you your carbohydrate, fat, protein ratio. There are 3 podcast episodes you should listen to right away. You can find them in iTunes also: http://fertilityfriday.com/pcosdiva/ http://fertilityfriday.com/katherine/ http://fertilityfriday.com/episode-103-lily-nichols/
This article was very informative but you didn’t mention IUD (copper) as a form of non-hormonal birth control. IUD is the number 1 form of birth control (http://time.com/the-best-form-of-birth-control-is-the-one-no-one-is-using/), so it really should be included in your article…
Hi Mel, have a listen to my podcast episode on the Copper IUD http://fertilityfriday.com/julie-casper/
If i get diarreah or bup after the pill does it mean it didnt work?
I got pregnant in BC four years ago and went right back in it after I had my son. I was put on a three month dose so I would get my period every 3 months. The week of Thanksgiving I missed 3 of my pills, my husband and I decided that it was time to try for #2 anyway so I stopped taking them all together. I did not have a normal period when I should of, it was extremely light and barely there at all. We are now three weeks later and still no period. Felling pulling in my ovaries, I’ve spotted maybe twice but no sign of my period. I feel like I did when o was pregnant before….a ton of energy, pulling in ovaries, extremely high sex drive, sore boobs, lack of patients with children, lack of appetite, smell aversion.
Could I be pregnant or just a reaction to going off the pill?
Hi Amy, It’s possible that you could be pregnant but the only way to know would be to test. It’s also normal for your cycles not to return normally right away, so this could also just be a sign of your body coming down from the hormones.
Hi there!
Thank you for this article, it’s been extremely useful.
I decided to stop the pill after being on it for a year in October. I made sure to complete the pack in order to easier track it.
However, the last two “periods” I had, were not heavy at all. In December, I had very light red spotting for about a week. And about 2.5 weeks later (this month), I’ve experienced a light brown period, in which seemed to have ended after a couple days.
Please note, that I’ve been sexually active throughout these months as well.
Is this normal? Or would these be signs of implantation bleeding?
I came off the pill in August 2016 because my husband and I decided to try for a baby. I’m 36 so didn’t want to leave it any later. We thought as I had a miscarriage while on the pill a few years before that we would conceive quite quickly but it hasn’t happened.. I haven’t had a proper period yet which after five months is unusual I think so going to the doctors in a week. I’m now worried that my age is a real factor 🙁 I’ve also out on weight and have a bloated stomach which is something I never had had before. Just got to terms with trying for baby and it not happening is sad now.
It’s unfortunately very common for it to take anywhere from 3-9 months for your period to return after coming off the pill. You’ll want to focus on nutrient dense foods, and replenishing your body’s nutrients. Make sure to grab a copy of my free ebook for more information.
hi there..I just want to ask if its possible to have a withdrawal bleed when you only took the pill for 2days ?
Hi There,
I wonder if you can help me?
I am 37 and have been on the pill since I was 17, and the mini pill for the last 5-6 years, on which my periods stopped, which i know is normal.
.
I came off the pill 3 months ago, I had my usual withdrawal bleed a week or so later then my cycles returned straight away, however they are now only 21-22 days long and my periods are shorter, now 2-3 days. They aren’t overly light but they are now bright red rather than the dark red and clotty types i used to have.
I am worried that this is because i am older and maybe that this means I am unable to conceive?
Is this normal when coming off of the mini pill, or should I be concerned?
Many Thanks
Jo
Hi Jo, it’s normal for your cycles to be outside the normal range for several months after coming off the pill. My suggestion would be to listen to this episode of my podcast: http://fertilityfriday.com/79/ and consider using fertility awareness charting to monitor your cycle parameters. I have a number of programs designed to help you navigate the waters after coming off the pill also. You’ll find more information on my work with me page. Wishing you the best!
Thank you so much! That’s really helpful and now I don’t feel so abnormal ?. I shall start charting and listen to the links!! Xx
Thanks Jo! 🙂
I was on the pill for 10 years straight. I had read things before into how the pill can affect your personality, sex drive etc. My sex drive was pretty much non existent, so curious to see what my body was like without having artificial hormones pumped round it…I made the decision to come off the pill a year ago.
I have been saying to my partner that he smells different and I couldn’t figure out why. I am noticing it more and more and I actually really don’t like how he smells anymore…. After reading this article, amongst a couple of others it all seems to be pointing to the fact that it is because I have come off my pill.
That is all well and good! But now what?? It is causing issues in my relationship. Simple answer would to be to go back on the pill. But I feel like it is against what I believe in. I feel like I am clearly a more genuine version of myself without the pill. What do I do..? It would be interesting to know if anyone else has gone through the same and what the outcome was….
Hi Louise,
That’s a tough decision. Hard to say what to do if that happens, but before going back on the pill, you’ll want to do some research about the side effects!!
Hello there,
on Dec 26 2016 first day of my mimmic period i decided to came off the pill, my spotting lasted on 2nd of Jan 2017, after 2 weeks i felt cramping and having sore nipples then had my spotting on 31st of Jan and on 5th of Feb it started to get a bit heavy like a normal period that from liners to pads and it stops on the 8th (today) is it still withdrawal bleeding?, how many more months should it take to have withdrawal bleeding??
thanks
Mitch
Hi there,
I started taking Lo Loestrin Fe on Dec. 20th 2016 (my last period), started being sexually active Jan. 8th 2017. I ended up feeling most of the symptoms such as anxiety, depression, fatigue, moody, & whatnot. I finished one full packet then I started the second one but only doing
the first two rows. After that I stopped taking it because I hated how I was feeling. So I’ve been off of it for about 12-13 days now. The first couple days being off of it I spotted very lightly like enough for one swipe to notice it. Then around day 6 after being off the pill I had this brown discharge followed by two days of very light spotting again. Then the day after that I had this weird milky discharge. Since then I’ve had nothing else. Starting yesterday I had cramping and headaches and it’s the same for today. Since I’ve been off the pill I have not used any contraceptives including condoms, nothing. I took a pregnancy test about 3 days ago just to see if I could of
been pregnant. Came back negative. Is it possible I could be pregnant or am I still feeling the symptoms from the birth control? Even if I could be pregnant would my Hcg levels be too low to even notice on a home pregnancy test?
Thanks,
Marsee
Hi, I hope you can help.
I have been going out of my mind! – I was taking Microgygeon Pill (Not Sure of Spelling) for 8 years. I recently stopped taking them in October 2016 where I finished my last packet.
November came – I had a normal period. (15th Nov)
Dec Came again normal period (15th Dec)
January Came – Normal period. (13th Jan)
February –
About a week or so later I had a water infection which unfortunately appeared some bleeding.
Docs gave me antibiotics and it cleared up.
Around a week after that (9th Jan roughly) I had a very light bleed which didn’t last very long maybe two, three days and didn’t feel like a period. I thought nothing of it and just waiting to come on around the 13th -15th Jan. I didn’t come on and haven’t done ever since.
I am experiencing very bad period pains but no period. I am very tired and slightly moody at times. My breast aren’t swollen or sore. I have taken two HPT and both came back Negative… I’m a little worried as I had a smear test and found abnormal cells of which I am going for tests next week! – What is going on with me? Am I pregnant? Could this be the pill after effects?? HELP MEEEEE!!!!
It’s normal for your cycles to be irregular especially the first several months after coming off the pill. My suggestion is to take care of yourself, nourish your body, and take some time to learn about your menstrual cycles: http://fertilityfriday.com/episode-98/
Hi I just came off the pill(Yasmin) like 2weeks ago and had my periods the. Ext day I stopped taking them, and now after my periods when I exercise there’s water gushing out of my vagina it’s been 3 days now , im worried, do you think it’s because I stopped taking the pill?
Hi Patience, It’s hard to say. It could be related to the pill, or perhaps something else that’s going on with your cervix. If if keeps happening make sure to make a doctor’s appointment to have yourself checked out.
Is it normal for when I come off my pills to get an extremely chunk period and then very very heavy for days?
Hi my question is I was on birth control for 2 months an had 2 periods both months there was no sugar pills they were all active pills they weren’t bad more of a spotting it 1 day normal period so after I finished my second pack I decided to stop taking them well then a week later I had cramps felt like I was on my period but no bleeding an then the second week my boobs are tender but still no bleeding I feel like I’m gonna start at any given time but have not yet specially with my symptoms is this normal to feel like your on period but no bleeding
Hi Jenny, It can take anywhere from a few weeks to 6 months or more for your period to return after you’ve come off hormonal birth control…
Hi,
After being on BC for 5 years I stopped taking it this past September, my periods started on time and are pretty regular (maybe a day or two early on occasion).
Before BC I would have really heavy periods and cramping, but since getting off BC I get some cramping but the bleeding is much lighter than before – more similar to the bleeding I experienced while on BC. It lasts between 3-5 days and is very light and mostly a brownish color. This month (7 months after stopping) I have had my period for 8 days and it is heavier than before and has not gotten lighter despite being day 8. Should I be worried? Is this normal? Could it mean all this time I wasn’t experiencing a regular period?
Thanks
Hi Zara, the bleeding you experienced while you were on the pill wasn’t a real period. It was withdrawal bleeding that happens when you take your sugar pills. It is common to experience a bit of abnormal bleeding after you stop taking the pill while your body is in the transition phase. If you keep experiencing 8 day periods consistently, you’ll want to consider having that looked at further.
hey, i had unprotected sex then took 4 birth control pills then 4 again after 12 hours as plan b as my doctor said. then i had my period early after 2 weeks so i took a pregnancy test and it came out negative. so i started with birth control, and on day 5 i decided to stop taking them. is it normal that i am still bleeding after 6 days? also sometimes feeling nauseous.. is it because of stopping the pills?
Hi, so i was on the pill for 19 days, on the 15th day of taking it i started to have breakthrough bleeding which lasted for 10 days, 5 days of the bleeding i wasn’t taking the pill. I had excruciating pain the last day i took the pill, it was like a knife was stuck in my left ovary every step was agony. 4 weeks after the bleeding stopped i had spotting that ranged from brownish to pinkish only when i wiped, was off and on for 5 days. i had mild cramping the whole time and am still having it off and on. Have been tired and cold like symptoms with a drastic loss of appetite for 4 or more days now. I have have had unprotected sex at least once a week since stopping it. I have taken a test a week after spotting and it was negative. Also i had been diagnosed with pcos thats why i was put on the pill. Any feedback would be much appreciated. Thanks
Hi , I am on the pill but stopped it because I was taking anti biotics and thought the pill would be killed. I am now bleeding but I would like to know how long this bleeding might last for ?
I have been bleeding for a week now after taking post pill, a contraceptive. I don’t know what to do.the bleeding was light before but started getting heavier after some days… Please what to I do and when will it stop?
Hello, I’m 28 and I started taking Lutera Birth Control in October of 2016, everything was fine the first couple of month. I had sore and enlarged breast bt I thought my body was regulating to the BC well in May, 2017 I started experiencing really bad anxiety and depression. So I got off the pill at the end of May. I had the withdraw period after that. It has been a couple of weeks and I feel like I’m gonna start my period. My breast feel tender and I have cramps and back pain bt nothing yet. I still get some anxiety bt not like I did when I was on the Birth Control. How long will it take for my body to regulate? Can you do a hormone test a few weeks after getting off the pill? I feel like I’m an emotional mess and my anxiety comes back here and then.
Thank you
Hi. I’m 37 and have two beautiful babies. A year ago my husband had a vasectomy. At that time I went on the pill, just to be sure we didn’t have another. I went off the pill for several reasons in June. Got my period in July no issues. I’m now 7 days late with two negative pregnancy test. Here’s the kicker. Last Monday my husband decided to finally test his sperm count. They tell us that he’s still got some swimmers. We’ve been using condoms thru all of June, July & now. But he only puts it on just before releasing. I’m of course an emotional wreck. I have an appointment with my GYN this week. Is it common to be this late after having a totally normal period the month after coming off the pill. I know they reek all kinds of issues. IDK… just freaking out!
Hi there!
I just wanted to say thank you so much for that interesting podcast. I went off birthcontrol half a year ago and I’m going through quite some changes. It was great to have your advice in this process. Keep it up!
Love from Berlin
Thank you Rianne!
Hi, how are you? I am hoping you can possibly give me some advice. I was on Yazmin for about 4 years, after giving birth that the young age of 17. I recently got married, and my hubby and I have decided that it is now time to try to conceive again. I stopped the pill about 15 days ago, and since then, I have been cramping a bit and I have brown spotting (cervical fluid.) I have no idea how I am going to try and try track whether I am ovulating or not. I am only 22 though and am hoping that my body will spring back easily, but it is rather difficult to plan. We are trying almost every second day, but I do not know if it would rather be better to only try once I have received my first, natural cycle? Could you advise please. I am so excited and thrilled about this whole process, and I do not want to set myself up for disappointment
Hello,
I have been on BC now for about 11 years. I usually only bleed very lightly for one or two days top. I last had my cycle on September 5th,2017. I started my bc back up for a couple days then my husband and I decided we are going to try for a baby so i would discontinue taking my pill. If I am correct, I should have begun my next cycle a couple days ago. I know my hormones are all out of wack right now from stopping my bc and the symptoms I am going to list might be because of that. I have felt extremely fatigued, upset stomach, some dizziness(seeing stars) with certain quick movement, headache and some right breast pain. Do you think I could be pregnant already, is it too early to try a pregnancy test? Or do you think its probably because of the hormones? Thank you
Hi, I was on the pill only for one month and decided to stop because the side effects were too much for me to handle. I originally started the pill to regulate my period, and stopped taking the pill a few days ago (3 days after finishing the sugar pills). I started my withdrawal bleed today and I’m miserable as I go on holiday in a few days and only just finished my period a few days ago…how long is my withdrawal bleed likely to last considering I was only on the pill for one month?
Hi,i have been on pill for six years for heavy bleeding. I went off seven months ago with no periods.I’m 44.Some two days age I noticed some brown discharge and then yesterday and today some very light discharge with mild cramps. What could this mean.
Hi! Thank you so much for the info above. I actually started the pill in Nov for heavy bleeding. I started my first “so” called period on Dec 2nd, it is now Dec 21st and I’m still bleeding – some days heavy and some days not. I’m thinking about stopping the pill since it seems to be prolonging my period instead of getting rid of it! Would I continue to bleed after stopping the pill?
Hey, this was a really interesting read and very informative. I myself stopped taking the pill 26/11/2017 I had my withdrawal bleed from 28/11/2017 which lasted 7 days. I hadn’t read much on stopping the pill so expected AF like a normal cycle. Although AF did not arrive when expected I’ve had blood tests done and Dr says hormones are normal but I forgot to ask about ovulation. I thought I may have gotten preggers but got BFN for a whole week started to stress so I went to see my Dr she didn’t even tell me about my hormones levels just said they were ok the reason for my visit to Dr was because 2 weeks ago for two day I felt cramping in my lower abdomen left side, hot flushes, dizziness. I have not done any OPK this month but Im curious if I O’d at that time which would make me due for AF in 7 days which would explain BFN for the last 2 weeks. I just can’t find much clinical info on the pill and it’s effects on the body after stopping them and I do understand that every body is different. I am TTC but now I am so anxious to know if I have O’d and that my cycle is getting back to some normalicy, this wait for first true AF after withdrawal bleed is so frustrating but reading this and go on chat forums and seeing other women’s situations it helps me to relax my mind and remember, I am not the only one. But as for the two days of not feeling well I hope that it was O time and not some pill withdrawal. Also because my Dr was not very informative I did a little googling and started reading about the fact that you need to O and not conceive for AF to visit and that that could take some time after stopping the pill. I’m justing hoping that either AF will visit or I will get a BFP the wait is killing me. 😊
Hello from Italy!
I came off the pill on Dec 30th 2017 and haven’t had a withdrawal bleeding since. Not even light spotting. I’ve been reading through the comments and found no mention of anything like this. What should I do? addotional info: I was on the pill for 6 months due to severe endometriosis ( had surgery in 2009, tried to use BC to postpone new surgery).
Hi good day, I just want ask because I started taking pills on Nov 27 because I got a lot of pimples ( it’s recommended only buy a friend) that’s my first time to take pills and I finished only the 1 pack and never take again on Dec 21 I got my period for 4 days. Me and my fiancee had intercourse several times using pull out method. And I’m expecting my period on Jan. 21 but it didn’t come. I’m 6 days delayed now and 6 time I took a test it’s all negative. I’m possible pregnant or side effects for the pill. Thank you very much looking forward for your reply.
I am 25 and I started taking Tri-Linyah 2 months ago. I completed 2 packs of BC pills and I refilled for my third pack. I took 4 pills and decided to discontinue use. I was off of the BC for 4 days and the 4th day is when I started to experience bleeding. I am not sure if this is a regular period or not. My breast has been tender and I have been experiencing minor abdominal pain. The bleeding is very heavy and I am concerned about how long the bleeding will last. Normally I did not have heavy periods before taking BC, I decided to get on the pills because of acne purposes and of course contraception. While on the pills I felt like I have experienced mood swings, anxiety, lost of interest in sex, and etc. I decided to discontinue taking the pill because of fear of future health complications as a result of the BC. I am considering the ovulation awareness method.
Hi!
I just started the pills (combined), it has been 10 days and I feel heaviness and pain in lower abdomen (kind of the discomfort you have before period starts). Is that normal and how much time should I expect for it to resolve? Also, I don’t have any underlying medical condition like PCOs or endometriosis.
Hi Salima, if you are having negative symptoms after starting the pill, you’ll want to make an appointment with your doctor to have it checked out (and possibly switch to a different type or come off altogether). http://fertilityfriday.com/203/
Hello,
I know this is old but i had a question. Is this normal?
I had been on the pill for almost a year, I kept getting sick from them so my fiancée and I decided it was enough. I took 4 pills of my last pack when we decided to toss them. Since then I had 3 day spotting last month, but I figured it was withdrawl because I had just had the fake placebo period at the end of the other pack. Now I just had my next “period” but it was only 3 days, pink and brown spotting only on the t.p. and it is also 11 days early.
Is this normal? Could it be spotting from withdrawal or could it be implantation bleeding?
Please answer.
Hi Nicole. It’s hard to know. If you track your cycles (fertility awareness), then you can confirm ovulation with your basal body temperature and mucus. If you think you may be pregnant, the only way to confirm is by doing a pregnancy test.
Hi! I finished my last pack of pills last April 29. From April 30- May 6, I was taking my sugar pills. In that week as well, I started to have my period, started with brown spots on May 2.
I was supposed to start on the new pack of pills on May 7 but decided not to.
This June 3, i started having brown spots. I only seem them when I wipe myself. They are intermittent. From June 3- 10, except on June 5, I did not have them. They are extremely light. During this period of brown spotting, I am having like PMS symptoms as well.
I am confused. Is this my period? Am I having another withdrawal bleed? Am I spotting between periods? If I have my period within June, is that my natural period already?
It’s hard to say Kit. Are you tracking your cycles? Perhaps this podcast episode could help. I spoke about how to know if your period is normal: http://fertilityfriday.com/127/
i am 20 years old and I started to take for the first time birth control pills on 24 June but I stopped 4 days ago because started to feel strange . After 2 days I start bleeding a little bit but now i have a strange jelly and brown spotting, is that normal?
Thank you
After going off the pill i then bleed really heavily for 8 days
A month later i was worried thinking iwas pregnant as i had alot of the syptoms aaaaaand still no period i went to the doctors to get answers. 45 days later i got a light spot like bleed for 3days then turned heavy having bad cramps hoping it does not last too long.
After taking the pill fairly consistently for 5+ years I went off of it back in 2012. I immediately felt so much better moodwise but my very next cycle was a couple days shorter… I had my regular period (about 5 days) and then about 7-10 days of no bleeding, then ovulation happened, and then almost right after that, light bleeding/spotting until my next actual period. And this cycle of irregularity has happened every month like clockwork ever since. I bleed for about 20-22 days EVERY month and I hate it! The only solution a dr. will give me is to go back on some type of BC and I tried that once last year and I felt awful for the week I started taking it (terrible nausea, and mood swings). I’m so annoyed with this… going on 6 years now (I’m 32)! Before I went on BC I never had an irregular period in my life – 5 day periods, 28 day cycle. Now I vary from 25-27 day cycles, still 4-5 days of actual period bleeding, and then it’s like after I ovulate, bam, spotting until my next period…
Hi Tawnie, have a listen to my pill reality series here: http://fertilityfriday.com/pillreality/ I’ve interviewed several women who share their birth control stories openly.
Birth control has made me feel horrible, I’ve had crying out breaks for nothing, I’ll just start crying out of nowhere, I’ve lost appetite, all together it’s just made me mentally unstable I’ve missed school just because I couldn’t stop crying I’m planning on quitting it tomorrow but I’m in the middle of my pack. How long will I bleed after quitting?
Hard to say Desiree. Have a listen to this podcast episode for more on what to expect when coming off the pill: http://fertilityfriday.com/79/
Hi there,
I’m almost 31, stopped taking the pill 7 months ago after around 7 years. My cycle returned to normal pretty much immediately. A couple of months ago, however, I began to get low abdo pain on my right side only on or around the 14th day of my cycle. Never felt this before I took the pill but I understand it’s actually quite normal. I’ve been using the natural cycles app so I’m tracking everything. At the moment I’m around 5 days late for my period and experiencing low abdo pain on my right side only; the same I get mid month but not similar to normal period cramps. I don’t believe I’m pregnant (have taken a test which was negative plus we’ve been having sex on non fertile days). Any ideas why I’m late and why the pain? Important to mention I’ve had a bit of emotional stress recently, I’m vegetarian and have been eating less and more unhealthy (I.e not as many dark greens and protein as I should be) things recently. I’ve lost a little weight but not much and am still a very healthy weight for my height. I have IBS so I have a bloated tummy most of the time.
Thanks so much in advance!!
Hi Rebecca, it sounds like you’ve got quite a bit going on. I offer consultations and coaching programs if you’re looking for more specialized support. Click here for details! Also, check out the podcast if you haven’t already.
Hi there, I had a period October 13th through about the 19th , however I did not start back on the pill due to us wanting another child. October 30th I started again for abour 3 days, and have not had a period since? I was on depo for 5 years switched in june to the pill had a period that first month and a regular cycle up until all this happened in October and am getting a negative test?
I came off the mini pill in Sept and had 2 normal periods but then in Nov I came on my period 2 weeks after my Oct period and been bleeding for 7 weeks ! How long will it take for my body to get back to normal and is it common ?? Very worried. Was on carazette.
Thank you so much for the information!
I would like to know more about the following things!
I stopped to take the pills after taking only 3 of 21 n now am experiencing heavy bleeding and I had sex with my husband while bleeding. so is there any possibility of getting pregnant on this day? do I need to take a post-pill to prevent pregnancy since we had it yesterday? and can I start a new pill at any time?
Thanks!
Hi there,
Thank you so much for your amazing page and for having been actively responding to all those posts for so many years now.
I feel truly blessed to have come across your page.
My question is the following.
I’m 37 and have been on the pill non-stop for the last 20 years.
My partner and I have decided to part ways after all those years together and I am considering to use this “opportunity” to go off the pill to rediscover my real self.
Before I went on the pill at 17, I would have very heavy periods, bad acne and worst of all, excruciating pain, which was the reason to go on the pill back then.
I’m terrified of stopping the pill and going back to having acne (and that at my age) and most of all, having the excruciating pain again, but I thought I give it a try.
Anyway, I guess after such a long lead in, my actual question i the following :
Would it be ok to take a break from the pill for 12 months or so to get to know my “real” self and hopefully find my new partner (I want to be able to smell him “right” not clouded by the pill), and then go back on it, or would you say that it’s better in this case to just stay on it and not put my body through all this stress for just such a short time of self-discovery?
What I’m trying to say is, would I cause more issues and play havoc with my body than I’d be doing good?
Please, I would be so grateful if you could please answer my question!
I just don’t know what to do!
Thank you for your great work and counsel!
Annie
Hi Annie, grab a copy of The Fifth Vital Sign for more on the side effects of the pill, and how it affects fertility. I devote 2 entire chapters to the pill, and I talk extensively about how it impacts your fertility when you’re ready to have a baby. It will help you to decide how long to take it for!
Hi,
I recently started taking the pills but decided to stop which I did. However i’ve been bleeding since.. approximately one week of bleeding. When will this stop tho ? Wanna get back to regular programming
Hey, my name is shauna and I went off of the birth control pill just about a month ago. I was afraid I’d never get my period back, but just after a month I noticed my cycle was staring to regulate. I noticed I was ovulating for like a week, then a week later or so, I had little cramps and my belt line area just where my ovaries were, were causing slight swelling. I knew it was my period coming, I noticed though my period was almost a brown, goopey color/texture. Is this normal?
I have been taking ipill for the past 4 months. The last one I took was on November 23rd and by December 5th my period came. On January 6th my period came again. Around January ending I had unprotected sex but I have done both urine and blood yes and tested negative. This February my period is delayed. I have not seen my period. Pls what could be the problem.
Informative and well written, thanks for posting.
Hi! I started reading your book and I’m hooked. This was very informative but I am so nervous about going off the pill mainly because I haven’t had a period in so long and I don’t know what to expect and also because I don’t know how long it’ll take to be regular. When I did have periods my cycle was extremely regular so I would like to use FAM as bc from here on out. Do you have any recommendations on when to start using FAM after going off the pill since I’m not sure when I’ll ovulate? I’m sorry if it has already been posted and I appreciate all your work and research!
Thank you Daniela! You can start charting (paying attention to your fertile signs and recording them) right away, however if you are learning on your own I recommend waiting 3 full cycles (ovulation then period 3 times) prior to using the method for birth control. When you work with an instructor or go through one of my programs, you can start using the method after one full cycle provided you feel comfortable. Good luck!
Hello,
I stopped taking the pill about a month and half ago, my nipples have been very sore since a week after I stopped the pill. I also had heavy bleeding a week or 2 after I stopped the pill which only lasted a week, but my nipples are still sore to this day 2 weeks later, its just my nipples though, not breasts. Could this be a result of coming off the pill, if so why would it last so long?
Helllo,
I am 33 and I stop my birth control 3 weeks ago , and all that is coming down is brown discharge then it goes away and come back. But no full period yet. Should I be worried. I was on the pills for 5 years. I am trying to have a baby with my husband. Can a doctor give me clomid would that help?