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How to safely get off contraception

How to safely get off contraception

Maybe you’re ready to have a baby or you’re no longer sexually active, that’s why you’re thinking of getting off contraception. Whatever the reason, you’ll want to do it safely.

For some methods, you can completely stop using them whenever you want. But for others, you’ll need to see a healthcare provider.

Pills

You can stop taking your pills anytime you want. No need to finish the pack, but it might be better if you finish the entire cycle. That way, you don’t totally throw off your cycle and you can expect your period to be within a few days of stopping the pills.

Injectables

Contraceptive injectables provide protection for three months. If you want to go off the injectable, just don’t get your next shot.

Take note that it may take longer for your menstrual cycle and fertility to return to normal. For some, their period returns after six months from the last shot, but it may take longer than that.

IUD

The copper IUD can provide up to 10 years of protection. But you can always have it removed without reaching that long.

Make an appointment with your healthcare provider to have your IUD removed safely. The process only takes a few minutes.

You can get pregnant almost immediately once it’s removed, and you might experience some cramping and spotting for a few days.

No matter what you see on the internet, please do not attempt to remove your IUD on your own. You may end up displacing the IUD at an awkward position, which could lead to pain and discomfort.

Implant

Like with the IUD, you have to go to your healthcare provider to have your implant removed. You can get pregnant almost immediately once the implant has been removed.

What to expect

It’s normal for your body to experience some changes after getting off contraception. 

Some methods offer non-contraceptive benefits, such as alleviating PMS symptoms, controlling acne breakouts and unwanted hair growth, and lighter periods. You can expect all those things to return after stopping contraception.

You might also be concerned about your fertility after getting off contraception. But no matter how long or short you’ve been using contraceptive methods, they do not affect your fertility and chances of getting pregnant.

Sources:

WebMD Editorial Contributors. (March 9, 2023). Stopping the Pill? 10 Ways Your Body May Change. WebMD. https://www.webmd.com/sex/birth-control/stopping-pill-10-ways-body-changes 

Your Guide to Going Off of Birth Control. (June 16, 2021). Cleveland Clinic. https://health.clevelandclinic.org/your-guide-to-going-off-of-birth-control/ 

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