Birth Control and Fertility:

About 65% of women between the ages of 15 and 49 use some form of birth control. When these women discontinue birth control, a common concern they all have is the effect birth control has on their fertility now that they are trying to get pregnant. Our team has put together some helpful information about different types of birth control and their effect on a woman’s future fertility. 

 

Types of birth control:

Birth Control Pill: A daily pill that contains progestin and estrogen hormones. It works by thickening the cervical mucus and the uterine lining. This method can delay pregnancy for 3-6 months.

Depo-Provera: An injectable method of hormonal birth control. This method can delay pregnancy for up to 2 years. This is because the body has to eliminate the hormone that prevents ovulation.

IUD: An invasive method of birth control where a device is inserted into a woman’s uterus. This method can delay pregnancy for up to 12 months after the removal of the IUD.

Contraceptive Ring: Also known as the NuvaRing, this is a small flexible ring inserted into the vagina and prevents pregnancy by releasing hormones. After removal of the ring, pregnancy can be delayed up to 12 months. 

Birth Control Implant: Also known as Nexplanon, this is a tiny, thin rod the size of a matchstick, that is inserted under the skin of a woman’s upper arm.  Nexplanon releases hormones to prevent pregnancy for up to 5 years. Pregnancy is relatively quick after the removal of Nexplanon. 

It is important to speak with your physician if you have any questions or concerns about the type of birth control you are on. If you are experiencing side effects that are concerning, don’t hesitate to bring them up to your physician.

 

Birth Control Effects on Fertility

Birth control contains hormones that prevent you from ovulating, so you don’t become pregnant when you don’t want to. Ultimately, women lose eggs with time no matter what. We used to think that if we weren’t ovulating, we wouldn’t lose eggs but that isn’t the case.

Although birth control uses hormones to prevent you from ovulating, it does not decrease your future fertility. It may take up to a few months to get pregnant when coming off of birth control. The first month or two after you stop using birth control, it may take a while for your ovulation to get back on track.

 

Fertility Treatments Post Birth Control

When you are ready to get pregnant after stopping your birth control method – but can’t – New Hope offers various fertility treatments. Our world-renowned fertility specialists will work closely with you to present a treatment that is right for you. Some of the fertility treatments New Hope offers are:

New Hope is Here for You!

It is important to work with a fertility team that understands every individual deserves personalized treatment. Here at New Hope, we pride ourselves on personalized care for each of our patients. Our fertility specialists guide you through your fertility journey, ensuring that the ultimate goal is to get you pregnant. Visit our website or call us at (212) 517-7676 to schedule an initial consultation today!