Fertility and contraception: Is it time to quit the pill?

You probably learned in sex-ed how to use contraception to prevent a pregnancy (makes sense, you were underage). Unfortunately, there’s no sex-ed for adults who want to get pregnant.

Does using hormonal contraception impact fertility?

The short answer is no. Multiple studies show that long term contraception use doesn’t affect future fertility rates. However, depending on what type of contraception you are using, it may take a while for your period to come back or for the full effects of hormonal contraception to wear off.

When to stop contraception

Hormonal contraception does not affect future fertility but it can mask underlying problems you already have. If you’re considering trying to get pregnant, you might want to think about coming off the contraceptive pill a few months before you start trying. This gives your period and hormones time to rebalance and gives you time to notice any patterns you may want to discuss with your GP. However, it is important to consult your GP in advance of stopping any prescription medication.

When does fertility return after stopping contraception?

Combined pill and progesterone-only pill

There is no evidence to suggest a delay in fertility returning after stopping the pill, hence women should be aware they could get pregnant immediately on stopping.
Hormonal coil

There is no delay in return to fertility after removing a hormonal coil (Mirena). However, it needs to be removed by a specially trained doctor or nurse and the waiting times can vary, so be sure to check what this might be in your area.

Copper coil

It is possible to get pregnant straight away after the copper coil is removed. However, it needs to be removed by a specially trained doctor or nurse and the waiting times can vary, so be sure to check what this might be in your area.

Injection

It can take up to 1 year for your fertility to return to normal after you stop taking Depo-Provera or Sayana Press, so it may not be suitable if you want to have a baby in the near future.

Implant

Women can have the progestogen-only implant removed at any time, and their natural fertility can return very quickly.

When will my period return after stopping contraception?

While fertility returns quickly after stopping most forms of contraception – it can take a while for your periods to come back. Most women will have a period around 2 to 4 weeks after stopping, but this depends on what your cycle is normally like. Your periods may be irregular when you first come off contraception, and you should allow up to 3 months for your natural menstrual cycle to fully re-establish itself. If they don’t return to normal within the first few months, you should visit your GP.

What contraception should I use if planning to conceive in the near future?

If you are planning to get pregnant in the near future, you may want to consider non-hormonal forms of contraception (like condoms). Speak with your doctor about what type is most suitable for you.

Coming off contraception before you're ready

If you are planning to start trying to conceive in the coming months, it is worth considering a non-hormonal form of contraception until you’re ready to start trying. Note that most of these methods are less effective than hormonal birth control.