Are you feeling a bit uncertain and anxious about the idea of stopping the pill? You're not alone. Many women are becoming more aware of their body and health, questioning the impact of synthetic hormones found in oral contraception. But deciding to transition off the pill can still be a challenging decision, filled with unknowns. How long will it take for your cycle to regulate? When will your natural hormone balance be restored? Don't worry, we're here to provide you with the facts and debunk some common myths about the side effects of giving up the pill. Get ready to take that big step with confidence and clarity.
Reasons to stop taking the pill
Risks and side effects
The side effects of the oral contraception pill can be quite extensive, with varying degrees of impact for each woman. Some common experiences include:
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Weight gain
- Cycle irregularities
- Bleeding between periods
- Psychological changes
- Mood swings
- Decreased libido
- High blood pressure
- Depression
It's important to note that these direct side effects are not the only concerns - long-term use of the pill has also been linked to an increased risk of serious cardiovascular problems such as blood clots, stroke, and heart attack. Additionally, there is evidence suggesting a higher risk of certain cancers with prolonged use of the contraceptive pill. Understanding these potential risks is crucial in making informed decisions about your reproductive health.
The pill is not recommended for some women
In certain cases, taking the pill may not be recommended for medical reasons. For instance, certain medications or supplements can interfere with the effectiveness of hormonal birth control. These medications can impact how the body metabolizes hormones, potentially affecting the reliability of hormonal contraception.
Additionally, there are several medical conditions that may prohibit women from taking the pill. Some examples include liver disease, blood clots, diabetes, migraine with aura, or uncontrolled high blood pressure. It's essential to be aware of these medical restrictions and consult with your healthcare provider to determine the best contraceptive options for your specific situation. Your health and safety are of utmost importance, and understanding these factors will help you make informed decisions about your reproductive health.
You want to stop taking synthetic hormones
The pill is widely known for its convenience and reliability as a method of contraception. However, it's important to consider the potential drawbacks. One significant disadvantage of the pill is that it introduces synthetic hormones into your body, disrupting the natural hormonal balance that regulates ovulation.
A woman's menstrual cycle is a beautifully intricate process that extends beyond just the week of her period or her fertile window. It involves a delicate dance of hormonal fluctuations over a span of approximately 28 days. Many women are now embracing a desire to restore their natural hormonal balance and are seeking alternatives to artificial hormones.
There are various reasons why women are no longer comfortable with relying on synthetic hormones. They may have concerns about potential side effects or wish to align with a more natural approach to their reproductive health. By exploring options that support the restoration of their body's own hormonal rhythm, women are taking charge of their well-being.
If you're considering a change from artificial hormones to restoring your natural hormonal balance, there are several safe and effective alternatives available. It's always a good idea to consult with your healthcare provider to discuss the best options for you and to ensure a smooth transition towards a more aligned and natural approach to your reproductive health.
You would like to have a baby
Are you excited to embark on the journey of planning for a pregnancy? Making the decision to stop taking the pill is often a crucial step towards this goal. When you discontinue the pill, your chances of getting pregnant are possible right away. However, it's important to note that it typically takes a few months for your body to readjust and establish a natural menstrual cycle.
Things you should consider when you want to stop taking the pill
Talk to your doctor
If you're considering stopping the pill, it's always advisable to consult with your healthcare provider. This is particularly important if you have a pre-existing medical condition or are currently taking any medication. Your doctor can provide valuable insights and guidance to help you make an informed decision.
Certain medical conditions and medications can impact the efficacy of hormonal birth control. Your doctor will consider these factors when advising you on the best course of action. They can provide information tailored to your unique health needs and can advise on alternative forms of contraception that may be more suitable for you.
In addition to discussing your medical history and medications, your healthcare provider can also help you prepare for the transition period after stopping the pill. They can provide information on what to expect during this time and how to manage any potential side effects.
Look for an alternative form of birth control
Are you not planning to have a baby in the near future? If so, it's important to explore alternative forms of birth control. Luckily, there is a diverse array of natural birth control and hormone-free contraception options available that can suit your needs.
In one of our previous blogs, we dedicated a whole section to outline and compare some of the most popular alternatives to the pill. This resource can provide you with valuable insights to help you make an informed choice based on your preferences and lifestyle.
Before completely discontinuing the pill, it is advisable to select and initiate another method of contraception. This ensures that you maintain 24/7 protection against unintended pregnancies. By proactively exploring alternative options, you can seamlessly transition to a new form of birth control that aligns with your desired reproductive plan.
Be absolutely sure that you want to stop
When it comes to stopping the pill, it's essential to be aware of both the physical and potential risks involved. While the most obvious risk is the possibility of getting pregnant, there are other factors to consider.
One concern is the increased risk of blood clots, particularly when stopping and restarting the pill after a brief pause. This risk is highest within the first year. It's important to note that this risk is relatively low, but it's something to be mindful of and discuss with your healthcare provider.
Additionally, temporary changes in your hormone balance can lead to mild side effects, such as alterations in your menstrual cycle. Your body needs time to readjust and establish its natural rhythm again after being on hormonal birth control. These changes are typically temporary and should regulate over time.
Your cycle may be irregular for a while
If you've been taking the pill for an extended period, it's important to acknowledge that your body may require some time to readjust and reclaim its natural hormonal balance and menstrual cycle. For some women, this adjustment period can take up to six months.
Even if you don't immediately notice your hormones finding their equilibrium or your cycle regulating, it's still a great idea to start tracking your cycle right from the beginning. And what better way to do it than with the femSense® app? By using this handy app, you can effortlessly enter your symptoms and monitor any signs or patterns that emerge. This will enable you to gain a deeper understanding of which phase of your cycle you are in.
This is what happens when you stop taking the pill
No, you will not gain weight
Let's debunk a stubborn myth once and for all: the belief that you gain weight when you stop taking the pill. The truth is quite the opposite!
It is important to understand that the hormones present in the contraceptive pill can sometimes lead to water retention, which can result in weight gain. However, when you stop taking synthetic hormones, you're also putting an end to the water retention. As a result, it is possible that you might actually experience weight loss instead of gaining weight.
Skin and hair can change (in the short term)
While it can be disappointing, it's important to acknowledge that when you stop taking the pill, you might experience skin blemishes, especially if you had a history of spots. The pill is known to alleviate the symptoms of acne by suppressing the pimples through hormonal regulation, but it doesn't address the underlying cause of the skin problem. As a result, when you discontinue the pill, the spots may reappear.
Now, let's talk about another potential but temporary side effect: hair loss. It's not the most pleasant news to hear, but in the first few months after stopping the pill, some women may notice an increased shedding of hair. The good news is that this situation is temporary, and your hair growth will soon return to its normal state.
Lucky in love - your sex drive increases
Ah, let's talk about the elephant in the room when it comes to the pill - decreased libido. It's true, one of the potential side effects of taking the pill is a dip in your sex drive. Why? Well, those synthetic hormones present in the pill can sometimes lower your testosterone levels. Now, I know what you're thinking - "Testosterone? That's the male hormone, right?" Well, yes, but it's also present in women, albeit in smaller amounts, and plays a significant role in our sex drive.
But don't despair! When you stop taking the pill and allow your body's natural hormone balance to restore itself, you might notice a delightful uptick in your libido. And guess what? This boost is often experienced during week two of your cycle when both estrogen and testosterone levels rise in preparation for ovulation. So, get ready for some extra oomph in the bedroom!
You have a natural cycle and can get pregnant when the time is right.
If you're ready to start a family, you'll be pleased to know that once you stop taking the pill, you can get pregnant at any time. However, don't be disheartened if it doesn't happen straight away. It can take a little while for your hormones to find their natural balance and for your menstrual cycle to regulate itself. This can make it challenging to pinpoint your most fertile days and time sexual intercourse around ovulation. But have no fear! Once your cycle is regular again, femSense® can help you predict, measure, and confirm ovulation. That way, you'll know the optimum time to try for a baby. The rest is up to you and your partner!
Now, let's talk about something that's the less-than-exciting side of a natural menstrual cycle: PMS (premenstrual syndrome). Not all women experience PMS, and its severity can be influenced by lifestyle and nutrition. Some women only have occasional symptoms, and others have mild ones. However, the fact remains that it can be part of a natural cycle. The good news is that tracking your cycle can help you recognize patterns and symptoms, which can help you feel more prepared to manage them.
Have you already established a regular menstrual cycle? Are you ready to unleash the full potential of the femSense® system? With femSense®’s assistance, you can better understand your fertility, whether you're on the path to pregnancy or looking for dependable natural birth control. Order your femSense® patches today to get started!
Whether you're considering starting or stopping the pill, or exploring the world of fertility tracking with the help of femSense® patches, it's essential to understand the potential effects on your libido and the importance of a regular menstrual cycle. While the pill may decrease libido in some women, the good news is that when you stop taking it, your natural hormone balance can be restored, often leading to an exciting surge in your sex drive. Additionally, tracking your cycle with the femSense® system can provide valuable insights into your fertility patterns, helping you better understand and predict ovulation, whether you're aiming to conceive or practicing natural birth control. Remember, everyone's experience is unique, and it may take time for your body to adjust and find its natural rhythm. Patience, open communication with your healthcare provider, and awareness of your body's changes are key.
Sources:
https://www.infomedizin.at/behandlungen/pille-absetzen/
https://www.netdoktor.at/sex/verhuetung/pille-5460
https://www.fernarzt.com/arzneimittel/antibabypille/pille-absetzen/
https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/290196#risks
https://www.apotheken-umschau.de/gesund-bleiben/sex/verhuetung-die-pille-707733.html
