Changes you go through after taking and stopping oral contraceptive tablets

Just like taking birth control pills, stopping them is also something to think about before you decide to do so.

Oral contraceptives consist of synthetic forms of hormones naturally produced in the body that regulate a woman’s menstrual cycle, and fluctuating levels of these hormones play an essential role in fertility. Regardless of what was the reason before starting birth control pills, viz. irregular cramps, acne and menstrual cramps or to avoid unwanted pregnancies; your body goes through various changes when you are in or out of them.

There is no shortage of birth control pills in India and you can easily consult a gynecologist who will prescribe the type and brand that suits you best.

So, back to the effects; when you’re taking the pills, most of the side effects are positive.

• You will have a clear and acne-free skin
• Decreased risk of ovarian cancer
• Regular periods
• No menstrual cramps
• Decreased pelvic pain associated with endometriosis
• No risk of unwanted pregnancy

So what happens when you decide to stop using oral contraceptive tablets? You will begin to notice the change in the first week. Although, it differs from woman to woman; Some of the effects after stopping the pills are:

• Skin breakouts and acne: As is a common change, when you stop using birth control pills, be sure to follow a strict diet and skin care regimen to avoid hormonal acne.
• Breast tenderness: You may feel some breast tenderness for a few weeks. It usually disappears.
• Uterine cramps: This will happen from time to time. It will not be a persistent pain that you will feel throughout the day.
• Bad mood, irritability and increased stress level: You will be very nervous for most of the day due to the hormonal turmoil in your body.
• Increased risk of unwanted pregnancy: Be sure to stop the pill when you have seriously thought about having children. If you’re still not sure but still want to stop, be sure to use an alternate method of birth control.
• Water retention: This is something to take very seriously as it is a big problem for women. Pay close attention to any change in the fit of your clothing or if your hands or feet appear swollen. Follow a low sodium detox diet to get rid of fluid retention.
• Small Spotting: Again, this is not normal. It usually disappears after the first week.
• Lethargy and Fatigue: You will experience loss of energy.

You will encounter most of these symptoms from time to time for some time, and the transition is usually smooth for most women. However, be sure to keep your gynecologist informed about the changes that she has been noticing and experiencing.

We are not trying to promote the use of birth control pills or discourage you from taking them. It’s your body and your decision to make. But you should be well informed about the changes you might experience. If you plan to have children and are coming off oral contraceptives, be sure to do so carefully and with some planning. You must be prepared for changes in your body and how to deal with them.