Getting Pregnant After Birth Control

Is there a problem getting pregnant after using birth control? There is no evidence of this. However, the type of birth control you use can delay your attempts to conceive by two to six months. There is also a condition that can result in a thinner endometrial lining, which may affect the chances of conceiving. 

Let’s start our exploration of the correlation between birth control pills and infertility by looking at the different types of birth control on the market. 

Different Types and Methods of Birth Control

We’ll start by listing the types of birth control available from the most effective to the least:

• IUD – 99% effective
• Implant – 99% effective
• Scheduled injections – 96% effective
• Scheduled vaginal ring – 93% effective
• Skin patch – 93% effective
• Birth control pill – 93% effective
• Condom – 87% effective
• Internal condom – 79% effective

Women who have stopped using birth control pills can experience a delay of up to six months. The use of IUDs, patches, rings and implants could also cause a delay of up to four months in conceiving. There can be a longer delay of up to ten months from the last birth control scheduled injection. 

What Led to Linking Birth Control with Infertility?

There are a few reasons why the myth of birth control or contraceptive pills affecting future pregnancy persists. Birth control, to be effective, creates an unnatural menstrual cycle that can mask underlying medical issues. When some women discontinue birth control, they may discover other medical issues are preventing them from conceiving. 

Another reason for the belief in a correlation between birth control and infertility is a condition of the endometrial lining that may occur in women who have used birth control pills, although there is no definitive proof. A report was published stating that women who regularly used birth control pills for five years or more were more likely to have thinner endometrial linings. The endometrial lining is where an embryo becomes implanted during pregnancy, and a thinner lining would reduce the chances of this. 

Possible Side Effects of Coming Off Birth Control

There are some side effects of coming off birth control in general. They include:

• Period changes
• Mood changes
• Headaches
• Weight loss
• Breast tenderness
• Acne
• Increased sex drive
• Premenstrual syndrome

However, we have to underline that there is no widely accepted research that links birth control pills and infertility. Coming off birth control is your logical first step towards conception. 

Signs of Infertility to Be Aware of

A menstrual cycle that lasts thirty-five days or more can be a sign of infertility, as can a cycle that lasts for twenty-one days or less. Some of the other initial signs of infertility in women can include:

• Hormonal imbalances
• Reduced sex drive
• Thinning hair
• Weight gain
• Acne 
• Facial hair 

Female infertility can be challenging to diagnose. It can be caused by many factors. Often, a woman experiencing initial fertility issues goes on to conceive naturally. If you’re below the age of thirty-five, most doctors recommend trying to conceive for at least a year before seeking testing or treatment. If you’re older than thirty-five, seek medical advice after six months of trying.  

Causes of Infertility

There are many causes of female infertility. Smoking, hormonal imbalances, age, weight, and exposure to hazardous chemicals or radiation can all reduce your chances of becoming pregnant. Some of the other reasons include:

• Anovulatory menstrual cycles
• Autoimmune disorders
• Blockage of the cervix
• Blood clotting disorders
• Cervical mucus problems
• Diabetes
• Endometriosis
• Fallopian tube damage
• Polycystic ovary syndrome
• Poor nutrition
• Sexually transmitted diseases
• Uterine defects and fibroids

Some of these causes of infertility may not produce symptoms, and you may not be aware of any problems. Before trying to conceive, have a thorough checkup so you are aware of any possible issues. 

Schedule an Appointment at V-Fertility Center

Reversible birth control will not affect future pregnancies or cause infertility in healthy women of childbearing age. If you have been trying to conceive for over a year, the V-Fertility Center at Vejthani Hospital provides comprehensive infertility treatment in Bangkok, Thailand. We offer infertility screening services, IVF/ICSI, and IUI insemination, as well as preimplantation genetic diagnosis. 

Please schedule an appointment at V-Fertility Clinic for any questions or concerns you may have about conception or fertility issues. 

Article by Dr.Worawat Siripoon