Posted: June 7, 2023 Contributor: Maddie Quinn
Birth Control and Fertility: How to Balance the Two
How Birth Control Affects Fertility
When it comes to birth control, many people focus on its ability to prevent pregnancy. But did you know that certain types of birth control can also impact your fertility? Understanding how birth control affects fertility and how to balance the two is an important aspect of reproductive health.
The Pill
One of the most common types of birth control is the birth control pill. The pill works by releasing hormones that prevent ovulation, or the release of an egg from the ovary. It’s an effective method of preventing pregnancy, but it can also impact your fertility. It can take several months for ovulation to return to normal after stopping the pill, and for some women, it can take longer.
Depo-Provera Shot
Another type of birth control that can impact fertility is the Depo-Provera contraceptive injection. It works by preventing ovulation, but it can also cause irregular periods and even temporary cessation of menstruation. It may take several months for periods to return to normal, and in some cases, it can take up to a year or more.
IUDs
Intrauterine devices (IUDs) are a long-acting form of birth control that can also affect fertility. IUDs can prevent pregnancy by inhibiting ovulation and altering the cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to reach the egg. Once an IUD is removed, however, fertility returns to normal. On the other hand, barrier methods such as condoms, diaphragms, and cervical caps do not affect fertility.
In all cases, fertility returns after stopping birth control
It’s important to note that while certain types of birth control can impact fertility, it does NOT mean that you will be unable to conceive after stopping use. Many women are able to conceive without any issues after stopping their birth control method.
If you’re considering a long-term birth control method and are planning to start a family in the near future, it’s important to talk to your healthcare provider about your options. They can help you choose a method that will work best for you based on your individual needs and goals.
Additional factors affecting fertility
It’s also important to remember that fertility can be affected by a variety of factors, including age and overall health. If you’re having trouble conceiving after stopping your birth control method, it’s important to speak with your healthcare provider about possible causes and potential solutions.
Talk to a healthcare professional
Birth control and fertility are two important aspects of reproductive health. It’s important to understand how certain types of birth control can impact fertility and to talk to your healthcare provider about your options. By balancing the use of birth control with your fertility goals, you can make informed decisions about your reproductive health. At PRJKT RUBY, we offer oral contraception as well as emergency contraception like Ella and Econtra. If you’re ready to talk to a healthcare professional about starting birth control, get started here.