6 Things That Can Happen When You Stop Taking The Pill

Whether you’re looking to get pregnant or quitting for medical reasons – many women stop taking the pill and don’t know what to expect or be aware of. Whatever your reason, you might experience a few hormonal and bodily changes as you return to your natural cycle.

“Keep in mind that the pill is a type of hormonal medication,” explains Ob/Gyn Salena Zanotti, MD. “Every woman reacts differently to going on the pill and then coming off it. Some women may notice huge changes, while others notice very little difference.”

Here’s what to keep in mind as your body adjusts when you stop taking the pill.

1. You could get pregnant! (Yes, right away.)

Many women don’t realize how quickly their bodies can start ovulating again after going off BC. Once you stop taking the pill, the hormones will be out of your body in a matter of days and you’re no longer protected from pregnancy.

“There are some women who go off the pill and never even get a period because they get pregnant right away,” says Dr. Zanotti.

So if getting pregnant isn’t on your radar quite yet – be mindful that no pill means no contraception and you should be using an alternative method of birth control (like a condom).

2. It could take a while to get your natural period back.

Some women go right back to having a regular cycle after ditching the pill, while other women might not get their period again for three months. Dr. Zanotti’s advice is to be patient and track your cycle. If your period is still confused by month three, then make an appointment to see your doctor.

3. PMS symptoms might reappear.

“Many women go on birth control to help with premenstrual symptoms like cramps, bloating and nausea,” says Dr. Zanotti. “So the unwanted side effects of your period will probably return after you stop taking the pill.”

Birth control helps regulate cycles and control hormonal symptoms, so don’t be surprised if you feel like your breast are more tender right before your period or if you feel more irritable or moody.

Some women might also see the return of a menstrual migraine right before they get their period. (What a joy!)

4. Your period might be longer and heavier.

If you’ve been on the pill for a while then you’re probably used to shorter and lighter periods. But after going off the pill, you might notice that your period is heavier, longer in duration and the interval has changed. This is all normal.

“For most women on the pill – their periods are right on track and often last only a few days,” says Dr. Zanotti. “But once the hormones are gone, you might notice a change in flow and duration.”

5. You probably won’t lose weight.(Sorry!)

Weight gain is actually not a consistent side effect of the pill, explains Dr. Zanotti. Everyone is different, but research has found that being on the pill usually doesn’t cause more than a pound of weight a year.

Sure there might be some women who retain more fluid and water weight, but if you’ve gained weight while on the pill and haven’t changed much about your life style, you probably won’t see any significant weight loss once you come off it.

6. You might feel a little frisky.

Some women complain about a low sex drive while taking the pill. The good news? You could see a spike in your libido once you stop taking birth control.

“The pill can cause vaginal dryness,” says Dr. Zannotti. “So this change in discharge and natural lubrication can increase libido in some women.”