In the United States, nearly 50 million women between 15-49 years old used birth control last year. As we age we start to wonder if the things we put in our bodies ultimately have long-term effects. Questions like – Does taking the birth control pill (BCP) or other contraceptives from an early age affect fertility later? – become common among the female population.
How the Birth Control Pill affects female fertility when taking it
Birth control pills introduce additional hormones into the body that stop ovulation and pregnancy from occurring. These hormones slow ovarian production down. When a woman stops taking birth control pills, it takes a few months for ovulation to return to normal, but most women can become pregnant within 6 months of trying.
The birth control pill is also commonly used to regulate symptoms of PCOS in many young girls and women, as the additional hormones can regulate period flow, help manage hormonal acne and hair growth, and minimize weight gain in women suffering from this condition.
Are there long-term effects of taking BCPs?
The majority of research and sources have come to the conclusion that there are no long-term effects of birth control. However, after the age of 35 taking the pill for an extended period of time has shown to cause an increased risk for certain health risks like blood clots.
Do other forms of contraception have long-term effects?
Birth control pills are only one form of contraceptive available for women. In recent years, many women have chosen longer-term methods of birth control, like the Depo-Provera shot or an IUD for their convenience.
Getting pregnant after having had “the birth control shot” can take much longer than the pill — sometimes up to two years, as the body gets rid of the hormone stores that prevent ovulation.
IUDs on the other hand have been shown to have even less of a long-term effect. A 2015 study investigated a small sample of women who did and did not use an IUD which found similar rates of pregnancy 12 months after the removal of the device. Most women begin to ovulate regularly within a month of IUD removal making it one of the easiest contraceptives to conceive after stopping.
So what does this mean?
Overall, research shows no significant long-term impacts on fertility or health after using birth control! Contraceptives are a great resource for those looking to wait to conceive. You can ask your local OB/GYN or family health provider which is best for you and your current needs.
Why SOYO?
Women’s well-being is our core belief — innovative treatments designed for women, by women. We custom-design treatments for the individual to promote the overall wellness of the body and mind. In partnership with New Hope Fertility, our team has over two decades worth of experience in helping women of all ages better understand their reproductive health. If you want innovative female-first care, SOYO is for you. Call us at (607) 600-SOYO (7696) or schedule your initial consultation today!
