I want to begin this article by first examining our relationship with Birth Control, especially those containing hormones. While I feel that it is important to have the freedom to choose whether or not we want to be pregnant during certain times in our lives, the more I hear from women who’s cycles have been disrupted from the use of birth control containing synthetic hormones makes me wonder if there might be a better way. If we could educate ourselves, delve deeper into understanding what they do in our bodies, as well as learn alternative methods of preventing pregnancy that may be more beneficial to long-term health, we might be able to prepare for conception in a healthier way.
The Love and Hate Relationship with Birth Control
We must give a lot of respect to birth control and the variety of options for birth control we have today. We now have more control than ever to choose when and if we want to have children. But regardless, I feel many women and men have lost their true relationship with their body, which also means they may have lost respect for birth control. Many continue to use it without thinking of the consequences of long-term use. It is important to remember that we are still creatures of the Earth, our bodies are made-up of the same materials as the Earth and we are filling them with foreign man-made substances that may greatly impact our health.
Choosing Birth Control Wisely
I am asking each person to be responsible for their choices and actions, research the facts on long-term side effects of birth control use so that when you choose to use birth control you are in understanding that it may affect your fertility and health later in life. Weigh the risks; getting pregnant or not getting pregnant? How will getting pregnant impact my life? How will preventing pregnancy impact my health? How can you balance those choices to serve your highest good? Ask yourself, is this something I am willing to use long-term or is this a short-term goal? How will taking this impact my fertility? Are there better or safer options for me? There are actually options out there that may be just as effective as hormonal birth control, but may take more diligence when using them. Condoms, diaphragm, spermicide and charting your cycle (rhythm method, natural family planning, BBT, cycle beads and OPK) are some alternatives to hormonal birth control.
Birth Control and Fertility
Many doctors will prescribe oral contraceptive (pill) birth control if you have fertility issues such as PCOS, Endometriosis, Ovarian Cysts or irregular menstrual cycles. While the birth control may work for some time for those conditions the birth control does not address the key issue of why you have that fertility issue to begin with. It may reduce pain, reduce the incidence of ovarian cyst or regulate your cycle for some time and then when you stop taking it your symptoms may come back. Many of you with these fertility issues still want to have children and taking birth control prevents that from happening. It is important to have clear communication with your doctor if you are still wanting to get pregnant while healing your body of your fertility issues at the same time. I have actually had women write in and say that their doctors did not make it clear to them that the pills they were prescribed for their fertility issues were actually birth control, which prevents pregnancy.
Daily we receive questions from women desperate to get their menstrual cycles to regulate after coming off of birth control. When I speak of birth control I am speaking of the kinds that contain hormones or IUD (which may affect the uterus and menstrual cycle). Birth Control Pills, Intrauterine Device also known as IUD (Copper T, Mirena, Progestasert), Implant (Implanon), The Ring (NuvaRing), The Patch (Ortho Evra) and Injectable Progestin (Depo-Provera) all contain synthetic hormones except for the Copper T IUD.
Anytime between the time you stop using it and up to a year afterward is considered a normal time frame in which it will take for your body, on it’s own to regulate your hormones and start a regular menstrual cycle. If you were taking birth control to help regulate your cycles or for other fertility issues this average may not apply because your cycles may have not been regular to begin with and there are no guarantees that the birth control use is going to keep them regulated like when you were using it.
For some methods like the Implant or Depo-Provera some women do not get their menstrual cycle at all and it seems that these women have a harder time getting their menstrual cycles to come back.
To understand contraception that affects our natural menstrual cycle I have made a chart to help you learn what hormones are in each of the above birth control methods. Birth control Pill Implanon Ortho Evra Depo-Provera Nuva-Ring IUD Mirena IUD
Method
How it Works
Most birth control pills are combination pills, they contain estrogen and progestin. Some contain only progestin, but the majority of women use combination pills. These work by preventing the ovary from releasing eggs. They also thicken cervical mucous making it hard for sperm to reach the uterus. This method also thins the uterine lining which may prevent implantation.
A thin flexible, plastic implant that is the size of a cardboard matchstick. It contains Progestin. The Progestin keeps the the ovaries from releasing eggs (ovulation). This hormone also thins the lining of the uterus which may prevent implantation.
This patch contains estrogen and progestin. These work by preventing the ovary from releasing eggs. They also thicken cervical mucous making it hard for sperm to reach the uterus. This method also thins the uterine lining which may prevent implantation.
This injectable shot contains progestin. Progestin keeps the ovaries from releasing the eggs, thickening cervical mucous to prevent sperm from reaching the uterus and thinning the uterine lining which may prevent implantation. Note: continued use of Depo-Provera may stop the menstrual cycle completely and it may take longer than average (9 months-2 years for the menstrual cycle to regulate after stopping it). Once you have gotten a shot of Depo-provera you cannot stop it’s side effects for 12-14 weeks.
This ring contains the same hormones as combination birth control pills.
The progestin and estrogen prevent ovulation, thicken the cervical mucous, and thin the uterine lining which may prevent implantation.
The IUD prevent the sperm from moving correctly, preventing the sperm from meeting and connecting with the egg. It may also affect the uterine lining which may cause implantation problems, but there is no proof of this.
This IUD contains progestin which prevents ovulation as well as thickens cervical mucous. It also prevents the sperm from moving correctly toward the egg preventing conception.
I wanted to share this information with you so that you can see how these birth control methods directly affect hormones and the entire natural menstrual cycle. Progestin and estrogen contained in birth control is chemically created in a lab to imitate our natural progesterone and estrogen. When we use these birth control methods they are releasing hormones in our bodies at times they naturally would not, disrupting the menstrual cycle and preventing pregnancy.
Some estrogens are made from pregnant mare’s urine, but is more often used for hormone replacement therapy (HRT) in older women. Continued use of progestin has been linked to thinning of the bones when it is being used, it is important to talk to you doctor about this serious risk.
Natural Remedies To Bring Back A Healthy Menstrual Cycle
The overall goal when coming off of birth control and wanting to try and conceive would be to nourish and support the entire hormonal feedback loop, egg health, cervical mucous and uterine health.
Step 1: Nourish and Cleanse
Natural Fertility Diet
Eating a whole food, nutrient dense fertility diet has been shown to increase the chances of pregnancy. Because hormones in birth control may affect our metabolism, digestion, and nutritional levels; eating properly is going to be very important when on birth control as well as afterward to replenish depleted nutritional levels.
Use of birth control containing hormones effects the levels of folic acid, riboflavin (vit.B2), vitamin B6, vitamin B12, vitamin C, vitamin E and zinc. It would be wise to take a good whole food multivitamin during and after birth control use to prevent nutritional deficiency and restore already depleted levels.
Women using birth control consistently for 6 months or longer have been shown to have significant lower levels of tryptophan, vit. B6 supplements can help normalize tryptophan metabolism.
Prolonged use of hormone containing birth control may also lead to anemia so you may also want to consider taking a wholefood iron supplement.
Birth control also changes the pH levels in the vagina, this may lead to yeast infection. Taking a good probiotic supplement containing Lactobacillus may support the body in maintaining healthy vaginal flora.
Prolonged use of progestin has been shown to thin the bones, be sure that you are eating adequate amounts of calcium rich foods like dark leafy greens, sesame seeds, seaweed, almonds, quinoa, chia, as well as limited amounts of organic dairy, yogurt, cottage cheese.
Fertility Cleansing for Liver, Hormonal and Uterine Support
The body may greatly benefit from some gentle cleansing of the liver and uterus when coming off birth control. The liver has to metabolize synthetic hormones and becomes overloaded and taxed during birth control use. The liver cleanse portion of the Fertility Cleanse helps to remove those excess hormones. The uterine cleansing phase may help to tone and cleanse the uterus. When a woman has not had a regular menstrual cycle for some time because of birth control use it may need some herbal support, the herbs in this phase are nourishing, supportive, toning and cleansing for the uterus. Because progestin has been linked to thinning of the uterine lining, the uterus may really benefit from uterine tonic herbs. These herbs also support hormonal balance and healthy cervical mucous.
The Fertility Cleanse may be great way for anyone who is experiencing challenges when coming off hormonal birth control to create a foundation for hormonal balance and a healthy uterus for implantation. Fertility Cleansing creates a “clean slate” within the body that helps the body to respond and utilize other natural remedies better.
Step 2: Herbal Support for Restoring Hormonal Balance and Promoting Ovulation
If you have tried to change your diet, are taking a whole food multivitamin and you still do not have a menstrual cycle yet you may want to learn how herbs for fertility can help promote hormonal balance, restore ovulation and bring back a normal menstrual cycle. Restoring a natural menstrual cycle is also important for egg health. Hormonal birth controls prevent ovulation which can decrease egg health. Our follicles require a normalized release of our natural hormones and adequate nutritional levels, synthetic hormones disrupt these which may impact egg health.
Fem Rebalance
Once you have stopped using hormonal birth control your body may be confused and in shock. One day your body was receiving hormones and then suddenly it was not. On top of that your liver may still be containing some of those synthetic hormones which may confuse the body further.
Fem Rebalance herbal blend was designed with great consideration to women whose bodies may need support to restore hormonal balance when coming off of birth control containing hormones, HRT (hormone replacement therapy) or great times of stress including rapid weight loss or gain. This blend may help to restore proper hormonal function.
Suggested usage for this blend would be for 2-3 months after coming off of hormonal birth control. This blend is not recommended for use during the Fertility Cleanse.
Tribulus Terrestris
If you know you are not ovulating and you are struggling to get your cycle back you may want to learn more about this South Asian herb. One study showed that 67% of women who were not ovulating began ovulating after using Tribulus. This herb has been found to stimulate ovulation. Tribulus has been used traditionally for hundreds of years to promote healthy fertility in both women and men.
Vitex
Vitex supports the hormonal feedback loop. This herb also promotes and has been shown to regulate ovulation. It has the ability to adapt to the individual hormonal needs of each woman. Because Vitex has proven effective for a variety of menstrual issues it may be a great choice to start off on the right foot to restoring a healthy natural menstrual cycle.
It has been shown to be most effective when used for 6-12 months consistently. Vitex is a remedy that has been shown to be very effective, but requires patience. It can take some time to achieve desired results, especially when coming off of birth control, but this herb is specific for regulating menstruation.
Dong Quai
Dong Quai (angelica sinensis) is one of the most powerful females tonic and fertility herbs. Dong Quai tonifies and strengthens the uterus by regulating hormonal control, improving uterine tone, and improving the timing of the menstrual cycle.
Dong Quai works by promoting blood flow to the pelvis where it will stimulate an absent or scanty period. It also nourishes the blood (it is in nearly all Chinese herbal blood-building formulas). Treats iron deficiency and anemia. One of the best uses is it helps women who are not menstruating to invite their menstruation back. The increased circulation also helps to strengthen and balance the uterus. In rat studies it has been show to help build the uterus lining.
We have learned that birth control that contains progestin may thin the uterine lining. Prolonged birth control use in some women has also been linked to anemia. Because Dong Quai is a wonderful uterine and blood tonic it may help to restore a healthy uterine lining and help prevent anemia.
Maca
Maca is one of the best supportive tonics for our endocrine system; which controls and produces many of our hormones. This root is very nourishing. Maca root supports overall hormonal balance and may greatly support our bodies through times of stress. An important factor when dealing with stopping synthetic hormones is the stress factor. It is extremely stressful on our bodies to take synthetic hormones and then abruptly stop them. Maca may help to restore hormonal harmony once again.
Step 3: Restore Healthy Cervical Mucous
Once the menstrual cycle is restored, healthy cervical mucous production should be restored as well. If you find you are still struggling with lack of cervical mucous you may want to consider supplements that have been shown to help promote healthy CM production.
Cervical mucous production may be altered for some time as well since the hormones in birth controls thicken cervical mucous for some time. Supplements that have proven results for restoring healthy CM are Evening Primrose Oil, Borage Oil, L-Arginine and Fertile CM. Be sure to drink plenty of water daily. At first you may also want to consider using a sperm friendly lubricant until your natural healthy cervical mucous is restored.
Step 4: Self Fertility Massage
Across the board this at-home natural therapy is one of the most supportive ways you can heal a wide variety of fertility issues, while promoting healthy function of the entire reproductive system. Self Fertility Massage promotes ovulation, supports communication with the endocrine system, improves circulation to the uterus and ovaries which strengthens the uterus and promotes healthy eggs, it also supports the body in ridding of those excess toxins and hormones. This type of massage is a great way to be directly connected to healing your fertility.
Be Patient, Be Gentle With Yourself
The body goes through a lot of confusion and stress when coming off of birth control. Be patient with your body, give it time to adjust to the intense hormonal shifts that have to take place. Expect that you may feel sad, angry, depressed and simply “off”. This is a normal when any hormonal adjusting is taking place. Be gentle with yourself and how you are feeling. Know that you can work toward restoring your natural hormonal state and can move on to working toward trying to conceive through proper nutritional, herbal and natural therapy support.
References:
1. http://www.plannedparenthood.org/index.htm
2. Tori Hudson, ND; Women’s Encyclopedia of Natural Medicine, McGraw Hill, 2008
3. Christiane Northrup, MD; Women’s Bodies, Women’s Wisdom, Bantam Books, 2010
{ 52 comments… read them below or add one }
Hi just wanna say thanks this information was very helpful indeed. I guess i will just have to wait. Much appreciated thanks.
I am 33 and was told by my gyn that I was going through menopuase. While I am not going to except that I wanted to know if there is anything that I can do thats safe to restore my body back to the old Kendra. I did have cushing syndrome but I am 100% healed. There has not been any sign of it since my operation in 2007. What can I do natuarlly.
Hi Kendra,
I think it would be helpful for you to read our article Understanding Premature Ovarian Failure. This will help you to understand your diagnosis more and what you may be able to do to help support your fertility naturally.
You may also want to talk to your doctor in more detail about why they have diagnosed you with premature menopause. Having answers to the potential cause of this diagnosis will help to guide you to natural remedies and therapies that may help you.
Best Wishes,
Dalene
Thanks for this article! I am looking for more natural ways to get my cycle started back up and so I have a couple of questions. I am 31 years old and I eat healthy and take a multivitamin. I have a healthy 12 year old son that I conceived and then I went on a combination birth control pill for 10 years. I went off of the pill almost 18 mos ago and still no cycle. My obgyn recently started me on a 10 day cycle of progesterone to try and jumpstart my cycle, but it didn’t work. She wanted to next either double the progesterone or have me start a one month cycle of the birth control pill because she said it was not healthy for me to go this long without menstruating. I have not chosen to do either option because I wanted to try and find more natural ways first, I did not want to start taking the pill again, even if only for one month, when this is what I believe has caused my problem in the first place. My doc has not ran any blood tests or further testing to see what is causing my lack of period, do you suggest that I may need this first or should I just start exploring some of your natural methods?
Assuming I am ready to start some natural methods, do you still suggest the fertility cleanse and/or fem rebalance since it has been so long since I have stopped the pill? It sounded like these supplements were used more with women who are first coming off of the pill. What else would you suggest to try and get my cycle started? Also, are these suggestions that you make on here only for women who are trying to conceive or do you suggest that all women who have irregular cycles and/or ammenhorea try these methods regardless of whether ttc or not? The reason I ask is because my husband and I have talked about possibly ttc, but that is not the main reason I am trying to restore my cycle at this point. I just want to be healthy and balanced again so that if we do try to get pregnant, it will be possible, but mainly for the sake of being healthy. So, let’s just say that I decide that I don’t want to get pregnant, is this all something I should still pursue or could it be just fine not to have my period for this long? Thanks for your very helpful insight into all of this, I really hope I can get my body back on track!
Jenna
Hi Jenna,
Great questions! First this site is not only for women trying to conceive, but for those who are wanting to have healthy natural fertility and to heal their bodies from fertility issues.
The Fertility Cleanse in general is a great way for anyone who is experiencing fertility challenges to create a foundation for hormonal balance and a healthy uterus. Fertility Cleansing creates a “clean slate” within the body that helps the body to respond and utilize other natural remedies better. It can be an especially important tool for someone who has not had a regular menstrual cycle in a long time. If you have not had a natural bleeding time in 18 months your uterus is not functioning properly, nor are your ovaries or hormonal feedback loop. This stagnant condition may actually cause the muscles of the uterus and the ovaries to atrophy (shrink and become very weak). Your uterus is designed to have a natural cleansing each month, if it does not have this something is not right within the hormonal feedback loop’s communication. You may also want to read over our Improve Uterine Health Guide to learn ways to support uterine health while you also work to get your cycle back.
Fem Rebalance is also a useful tool for a woman who’s body is confused about how to function on its own. It may begun at any time after coming off of birth control if the woman is still experiencing hormonal imbalance. As to whether you should get testing done, it is up to you. If you think the long-term birth control use may have caused health issues testing may help you determine if there are any serious problems happening. It could just be your body has forgotten how to function on its own, 10 years is a long time to be controlled by a medication. It is always important to work toward maintaining healthy fertility, whether you want to have a baby or not; you want your body to function properly!
Best Wishes,
Dalene
Thank you so much Darlene for taking the time to answer all of my questions, this was very helpful!! Since I am tired of medication side effects from synthetic hormones, can I expect any side effects from the fertility cleanse and fem rebalance? And any insight on how long these might take to get my cycle started? And would I first do the cleanse and then start the rebalance? Thanks again so very much!!
Hi Jenna,
Some women experience fatigue, headache, or emotional when doing the Fertility Cleanse. All of this is completely normal when you are doing any type of cleanse. The cleansing action of the liver dumps toxins and excess hormones into the blood stream to be removed from the body. Because of this you may experience a weird menstrual cycle at first. This may also happen when beginning Fem Rebalance as your hormones adjust to the changes taking place within your reproductive system. Every woman’s body is different and may experience differences in cycle, mood and side effect changes. Be sure to eat really well and drink plenty of filtered water!
Best Wishes,
Dalene
thanks for this article! I am wondering, I have been on birth control pills for almost 15 years. I went on the pill for irregular periods and horrible cramps. I now want to get off the pill so my husband and I can start a family. I am very worried because I have been reading many posts and hearing from many women about how bad thier acne was after getting off the pill. I don’t want to go through this. What can I do to prevent this? It is terrifying to me, but I want to start trying for a baby. Thanks so much!
Dallas
Hi Dallas,
Many times adult acne is a sign that the liver is detoxifying or due to hormonal imbalance. Some suggestions would be to drink water, do a cleanse and focus on nourishing your endocrine system after you stop using the pill. Acne is a sign of underlying cleansing that the body is doing.
Hi
Thank you for the wonderful article!
I’ve been on birth control pills for almost 3yrs. I got my last period last October 2010 for 2 times in a month and unluckily that was my last period. But now I can feel hopeful I will get my period since I’m experiencing breast tenderness and etc. How can you help me about my situation now. I want to get pregnant next year. The pills that i used was Althea.
Please help me….
Hi Marie,
I am glad you like the article! Thanks.
The best place to begin would be to sit down and write out a plan. Go through this article and write out each step as suggested.
Step 1: Nourish and Cleanse
Consider eating a Natural Fertility Diet, and the benefits of Fertility Cleansing. Also consider what nutritional supplements may be of benefit.
Step 2: Herbal Support for Restoring Hormonal Balance and Promoting Ovulation
Educate yourself about herbs that help to balance hormones, support proper hormonal function, help regulate ovulation.
Step 3: Restore Healthy Cervical Mucous
Learn more about the importance of healthy cervical mucous and what you can do to promote that.
Step 4: Self Fertility Massage
Self Fertility Massage promotes ovulation, supports communication with the endocrine system, improves circulation to the uterus and ovaries which strengthens the uterus and promotes healthy eggs, it also supports the body in ridding of those excess toxins and hormones.
If you still feel completely lost, you may want to consider a Natural Fertility Consultation.
Warm regards,
Dalene
Hello!
I recently went off bc, feeling it was more damaging than beneficial. I have always used other methods of protection in combination with it, anyway, so I would like to help my body recover.
However, I am hesitant to start any herbal regimes without more guidance and observation. I would also like to address my weight. I have heard that homeopathy uses natural remedies. Do you feel going to a homeopathic practioner would address my hormonal imbalance and weight, or would you suggest simply taking the steps listed above?
Hi!
Thank you for the article. It has been very informative and reassuring for me. I am 30 and discontinued use of birth control after 13 years. I have been off birth control for 5 months. For the first 2 months off, I had horrible cramps. They are better now. I am still getting a little bit of acne. I have also started shedding more of my hair over the last month. I have scoured the internet and read that about 10% of women coming off birth control experience hair loss 2-4 months after discontinuing birth control. It is due to a drastic change in hormones. I am hoping this will stop for me soon. I am interested in trying your program to naturally regulate my hormones. My cycles have been anywhere from 33 – 40 days and my periods have been light.
Please help!
Thank you!
Thanks for the article, it was quite helpful. I would be grateful if you could answer a few questions. I am 31 came of birth control pills in July, since then I got a period that should have when i came off the pills, then 2 other periods one in August and the other in Sept. , seem to be on a 24 days cycle now. my mucus appears creamy lotion like,just start taking evening primose oil. I am trying to ttc, just want to know if i have ovulated or not. Can you get 2 periods and not ovulate after stopping the pill.
Please help.
H Adriana,
A homeopathic practitioner will be able to guide you to supportive homeopathic preparations specific to your needs. Homeopathy can also be a complimentary therapy to other natural therapies for fertility. Most homeopaths feel that it is best to not mix herbs for fertility with homeopathy. This is because homeopathy stimulates the body to heal itself, while herbs have actual medicinal actions that support the body’s natural processes, or have direct healing actions. The most important thing to research prior to using homeopathy, is the homeopath. Homeopathy takes skill to identify the exact correct remedy. Find a very skilled and educated homeopath. Remember that homeopathy cannot be a ‘cure all’, you must incorporate healthy diet and exercise; you must do your part to heal your body. I love homeopathy, but I do not rely on it alone for all of my health care needs.
Best Wishes,
Dalene
Hi Lara,
Thank you for sharing your experience with coming off of birth control pill use long-term. Have you considered a Natural Fertility Consultation? Our Natural Fertility Consultations provide you with a personalized written guide to the best natural therapies, herbs and supplements for your unique fertility needs. A consultation provides a month-by-month guide to help you get your body back on track. Below are some other resources you may find helpful!
Natural Fertility Community: http://fertility.ning.com/
Natural Fertility Diet: http://natural-fertility-info.com/fertility-diet
All the best,
Dalene
Hi Clair,
It is possible to have a period and not ovulate. This is due to hormonal imbalance. This does not mean that this is what you are experiencing. It would be best to learn how to chart your cycle using BBT, fertility microscope or mucous recognition. You can learn more about this by reading over our charting series at this link: http://natural-fertility-info.com/menstrual-calendar-charting-your-signs-of-fertility.html
Learn about Fertility Microscopes here: http://natural-fertility-info.com/ovulation-fertility-microscope.html
Best Wishes,
Dalene
Hi
Thanks for this article it is very encouraging to me who is at a complete loss. I am 27 years old and was on the Birth Control Pill for 7 months after i first got married. My mother was on it when she was younger and had no issues so i innocently thought it will be ok.
I stopped taking the pill over a year ago and i feel like i have had all the issues one could have. Ever since stopping my actual blood flow and timing is the same as if i was still on the pill, but the difference is i have excessive period pain starting for at least one week prior to my period. I have lost weight and gained acne. Im get moody and depressed during the week prior to my period.
Also i have a strange symptom, its like a urinary tract infection without the infection. In the week before my period and occasionally over ovulation time i have burning urine pain. That comes and goes as it likes. I have been to the doctors twice and they have no advise as there is no infection.
I have waited a year and hope and pray my body can restore itself soon. I will never return to the pill and i will try some of the remedies you have suggested, i am willing to try anything at the moment.
I hope others can read this and know some of the possible issues
Thanks
Joanne
Hi Joanne,
Thank you for sharing your story! We appreciate the positive feedback. The UTI symptoms you describe sound like they may be related to a yeast infection. Have you been tested for that? Many women have a flare up of yeast in the time before their period begins, as well as during their period; this may cause a burning urine sensation. This may be something to check into. I hope you go on to have a baby! You can learn natural remedies for painful periods at this link: http://natural-fertility-info.com/painful-menstruation-natural-remedies.html
Best Wishes,
Dalene
Hello Darlene,
I am 30 years old and have been on birth control on and off about 3 or 4 times and for short periods of time. The last time I tried it was 3 months ago and I switched to ortho tricyclen lo and was only on it for 3 weeks because my hair got so thin and my skin was bad. I went on it mainly to gain weight because I got so thin due to stress. I feel like I have one problem after another. I feel I am too skinny and then suddenly I get thicker and feel and look healthy then the next day I lose weight. I eat alot of food and workout as I always have. I feel that My hormones are totally screwed up because my skin, hair, and weight are always randomly changing. I have started taking maca,iodine, and all the other vitamins I normally take and feel like it was working until my body changes again within what seems to be a matter of days….I don’t know what to do all my blood work comes up fine at the doctors and gyno tests are normal. Im always tired, stressed out and depressed. What type of doctor do you suggest I go to…Im willing to try anything to be normal again!
Hi,
I want to get off of the mini pill(which my midiwfe put me on because I was breast feeding) and start charting naturally, and get an ovulation tester kit but I need some advice on how to switch safely because I’m not quite ready to get pregnant yet……
And I have a few questions for…..well anyone that has insight on my situation.
Here’s a little of my history to help any answer my questions .
Growing up my cycles were VERY regular,not painful and not at all heavy, just normal.
I started taking the combo pill(Ortho Tri Cyclen Lo) when my husband and I got married 3 1/2yrs ago specifically as birth control and we used it for almost 2 years,got off of it and within 6 weeks I was pregnant! About 6 weeks after giving birth my nurse midwife put me on a progestin only pill)mini pill) because I wanted to breast feed only. Now my daughter is 11 months old I am still on the mini pill because I am still breast feeding her,but I would like to get off of it.
I still haven’t gotten my period even though she’s 11 months old and most people are getting theirs by the time their baby is 6 months. Also I run and take an exercise class 3-5 times a week and I’ve been told by a doctor that runners and athletes(which I’m not claiming to be…..but we do have a pretty intense exercise)don’t usually ovulate regularly. But I don’t know if that would have anything to do with me not starting my cycle yet.
I have looked into natural methods and want to get an Ovulation Predictor kit but I read that coming off of birth control will sometimes not give you an accurate reading. My husband and I don’t feel ready yet for another baby so…..my questions are:
1. What are the chances of being able to use an ovulation predictor and getting an accurate reading when just getting off the mini pill, and again I still haven’t gotten my period post partum so I don’t even know if I am ovulating yet.
2. Assuming my body does start ovulating right when I get off the pill,how soon should I get my period.
3. Does anyone have any recommendations about what to use as a non hormonal back up birth control until I figure out if I’m actually ovulating and able to get pregnant….
Any advice would be very much appreciated!
Thanks Bethany
Hi Jennifer,
If your doctor has not tested your thyroid, I suggest you discuss this with them. I see that you are supplementing with iodine, but some thyroid problems like hyperthyroidism can get worse if there is too much iodine in the body. It sounds like you may have some of the symptoms of hyperthyroidism. You may want to research that condition more. Below are some links to articles you may find helpful, as well as supplements that may support your body through this stressful time. Stress has a huge impact on the adrenal glands, and the thyroid. Lowered immune function and infertility can result due to adrenal fatigue and thyroid problems.
Tips-
Learn to make smart meal plans for underweight women trying to conceive: http://natural-fertility-info.com/infertility-due-to-being-underweight.html
Support the adrenal glands through extreme stress: http://www.naturalfertilityshop.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=20022
Learn the impacts of thyroid problems on fertility: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gZWj0SE2bE0
Learn to make a stress reduction plan: http://natural-fertility-info.com/stress-and-your-fertility.html
Maca supports healthy stress response in the body, so it sounds like that supplement may be a good one to continue. If you are wanting to go a more natural route for healing, looking at the body from a holistic perspective, you may want to find a good naturopathic doctor. You can always ask your current doctor to run a panel of hormone testing, including your thyroid hormones. Demand these tests. You know your body best, if you feel something is not right, you deserve answer!
Best Wishes,
Dalene
Hi Bethany,
You may not be getting your cycle because you are still breastfeeding. This is not uncommon. When I was breastfeeding I lived in a community where most women exclusively breastfed their babies. Many of us never got a period until we night weaned (cut nursing time in half), or weaned. This is the body’s natural way of preventing pregnancy, though it is unreliable. Because you are also using birth control your ovulation my be suppressed due to a combination of all these reasons: exercise (though not likely), birth control and breastfeeding.
1. I would say the first month may be very inaccurate, and it would be best to not assume any of the readings as correct.
2. There is no way for anyone to know this or answer this.
3. Condoms, diaphragm, spermicide are some options.
When coming off of the birth control consider starting to chart your cycle right away. Even though you may not be able to predict ovulation right away, you will be able to begin to see what your cycles are doing and if there is a pattern of any kind. You can learn all about charting here: http://natural-fertility-info.com/guide-to-fertility-charting.html
I commend you for breastfeeding your baby! We need more women to breastfeed their babies!
All the best,
Dalene
been off the depo for 2 months now and trying for a baby but since i got my period back 6weeks ago ive been bleeding every 2 weeks or 7 days .
This is getting me moody and week and my breast are so sore .
i just want to get my body back to normal any suggestions xx
Hi, I was on the depo shot of and on for 5 years, and i took to long to take my shot. my period came down an i took the shot while it was on. i tried stoppin it by takin a birth control pill while on the shot, but that only made it worse an now my period was on for about 6 weeks now. Is there anything i can do to stop my period and get my regular cycle back ?
Hi victoria,
I am sorry to hear you are bleeding on and off so much! If you are feeling weak you may have low iron levels known as anemia. You can learn ways to boost iron levels naturally, with tips on curbing abnormal menstrual bleeding at this link: http://natural-fertility-info.com/heavy-menstrual-bleeding.html
Once you get the bleeding under control, you may then be able to follow the guidelines in this article. If you are worried about how much you are bleeding, please talk to your doctor!
Best Wishes,
Dalene
Hello,
I was on Ocella (Yaz) for 6 years and within the past year or so have been getting cramping and migranes that I never use to get so my doctor switched me to Sprintec. Within the second pack of the Sprintec I became out of control anxious and could not control my panic attacks. I decided to get off birth control altogether after the horrible scare. I am now 8 weeks off of birth control pills and have servere depression and still am dealing with anxiety and panic attacks. I am not as bad as I was while on Sprintec but I am still not myself. I am debating whether or not to go on an antidepressent or if I should just ride it out. Like I said, it has been 8 weeks. I am having more good days here and there… but almost every day is tough to get through. I can do it, but it is unbelieveably unconfortable. Any suggestions? I have starts taking Vitamin B6 100mg, Vitamin E 400UI, Fish Oil 1000mg, St. John’s Wort, and a multivitamin 8 days ago.
Hi Dalene. I just want to thank you for all of your compassionate responses to everyones question. Im just starting to learn alot about naturopathic medicine and why its my route of choice. I have been traumatized by my experience with long term use of the birth control pill. I was given a high dose pill when i was 16 for birth control reasons, not for any other reason. i was as healthy as can be at that age. Anyhow I developed melasma on face this year and realized it was the pill giving it to me ( along with other no so obvious side effects) so i had to stop it cold turkey in august and my entire body has freaked out. No part of me feels familiar to me now. I have developed horrendous acne, facial hair growth, hair loss on my scalp, weight loss, loss of libido, blurred vision…anyways dont want to overwhelm the site but you get the point. My point is i would love to able to regain my sanity and my health and become a happy mother one day. I dream of the day. Does it sound like im detoxing or withdrawing and do you think my body still has time to recover from all this trauma? I just look at pics of myself PRE birth control and just want to be there again. Any recommendations would be highly appreciated. I trust this site and am greatful for it.
thank you for reading!
Hi Gidgett,
In addition to the suggestions in this article, you may want to consider learning about Slow Flow, a supplement to reduce heavy or long-term menstrual bleeding.
Best Wishes,
Dalene
Have you talked with your doctor about this? It may be hormonal related, but it would be best to rule out other possibilities first. If it is hormonal you may want to look into vitex and motherwort as possible herbal remedies. But talking with your doctor is going to be very important. Also note that if you do decide to use some medications to help with this St. John’s Wort may interfere with both antidepressants and birth control.
Hello,
I am 30 years old and have never really been on any kind of birth control. My periods have always been normal. About a year ago I had taken the morning after pill a few times then in May I had an IUD inserted. I started to notice my hair was thinning so I had the IUD removed in July and have not taken anything since. I have never had acne in my life and now, about 3 months off of everything, I am breaking out every month right around ovulation. The acne is around my mouth, it kind of hurts and weeps but never actually comes to a head. I can’t decide if I think my hair is getting thinner or if I’m just paranoid about it now. It hasn’t grown back I know that. I have read a lot about excess androgen and I’m concerned that this may be my problem. So here I am almost 6 months later and things aren’t getting better. I mentioned these things to my Dr and they just blow me off. I need help, I’ve always had great skin and hair and now both are a mess. Thank you!
Amy,
I have seed the morning after pill cause many hormonal issues for women continuing months after using that medication. The acne suggests to me that focusing on supporting your liver would be of benefit. The liver helps the body to get rid of excess hormones. You may want to look into the Fertility Cleanse as half of it focuses on the liver and the other, hormonal balance. The diet also should include lots of leafy greens, water, and avoid soy, pesticides, herbacides and animal products must be organic/without hormones. If we knew more about your health history we could make further specific suggestions. You may want to look into an email fertility consultation with us.
Thanks i am realy grateful for this comprehenasive info. Guess i have got to be patient with my body.
Hi Dee,
I am really deeply astounded by your experience. I am sorry that you are experiencing this. I hope that this horrible experience can be a stepping stone (learning experience) that will transform your life in positive ways, that you cannot yet see. One of the bodies miracles is that every cell in our body renews over time and is replaced by healthy new cells. This gives us the opportunity to work toward changing our fertility issues by nourishing and taking care of our bodies now, so that those new cells have the best chance possible to be vibrant and healthy! There is always time to heal your body! It may take time, commitment, lifestyle change and persistence, but you deserve to be healthy and happy! You may want to start with this 5 steps in this article. It does sound like your body is going through a lot of confusion, which may cause all of the symptoms you are describing. #1 would be to support your body nutritionally and then #2 Fertility Cleansing!
Believe in your capacity to change your life and health!
Dalene
thanks so much for the article, I really enjoyed it. I came off the the pill (depo) about three months again. On November 22nd 2011 I have my period but since then, I have not had another but some times I experience cramps. But I also want to conceive and want to try either fem rebalance or dong Quai. Please how long can I use that? help me because am desperate to have my second child. thanks for your advice.
I’m am a 24 year old mother of three, currently ttc #4. I had the mirena in place for 5months shy of the whole 5 years it lasts. During the last 2-3years I didn’t not menstruate (maybe once every 8 months), my iud was removed nov 5th of this past year, I had withdrawal bleeding two days later, 2 weeks after removal I experienced brown discharge that I thought to be implantations bleeding, I have had countless negative hpt’s and have yet to have received my period. I am actively trying to concieve but I dont even know if I’m ovulating, come this Jan 20th I will test again, if it is still negative I will be starting vitex, or redraspberry leaf tea, dong quai, and what ever I think I need to ovulate and then menstruate if I can’t get a fertilized egg implanted that first ovulation. Please help. What should I take and how? I have always had irregular periods, super hevy starting at age 10, going through super tampons within hours in 4th grade, they did seem to become somewhat regular as I hit teen years… About every 35 days lasting 6-9 days. Now I don’t bleed, I just want to ovulate and achieve pregnancy. Does vitex sound like it would work? Should I take vitex to start my period then stop while I’m bleeding then start back up only to stop to take soy iso days 5-9. There is so much info that I can’t seem to get it straight, I’m still young and very healthy, I am in shock I’m having such issues when my first three kids came with such ease and no ounce of try. Please help.
Hi Dalene,
Thank you so much for your encouraging words. It has been a very traumatizing experience for sure but I am determined to heal. My question to you is regarding Vitex and Saw Palmetto. Some of my awful symptoms after birth control are similar to PCOS symptoms but I dont want to assume I have it and scare myself unecessarily when what I probably have is a terrible hormonal imbalance and a toxic system. I had an ultrasound done and blood tests and everything was normal. I know you cant see my old post but i have acne, hair loss and some extra facial hair growth all of which are totally new to me and obviously haunt me since stopping the pill. I am very thin and generally ‘healthy’ aside from this mess. I have had two periods since stopping the pill late august 40 days apart and very light. I have taken vitex for about two months now and was thinking maybe saw palmetto will help ease the yucky symptoms but i dont want to experiment too much with stuff since im still so fragile. What do you think? Is is safe to use both, and to add it to my already long list of new things to take? Ive changed my diet drastically since this started and started taking supplements too but no changes yet.
Thanks again for this site it helps so many women for so many reasons!!
Hi Abee,
Fem Rebalance is best used for 2-3 months. Dong Quai is best used for 3-6 months. A plan could look like this…
Month 1: Fertility Cleanse Kit, Multivitamin, Fertility Diet
Month 2-3: Fem Rebalance, Multivitamin, Fertility Diet
Month 4-10: Dong Quai, Multivitamin, Fertility Diet
Best Wishes,
Dalene
Hi Brittany H,
It is not abnormal to experience irregular cycles after using the Mirena IUD. It can take the body some time to regulate on its own once again. It can be difficult for your body to “remember” how to have a cycle. Your uterus may be very weak, since it has not shed or built a lining regularly over the past 5 years. Consider a supportive diet, multivitamin and regular exercise. Next consider ways to support uterine health by reading our article at this link: http://natural-fertility-info.com/uterine-health-for-fertility.html
We do not support the use of soy isoflavones. Using soy isoflavones, especially when self prescribed are not very effective or the best option. I feel that supporting and nourishing the systems that produce and control hormones is best. You can do this through good nutrition, herbs, supplements and natural therapies rather than manipulate the hormones.
Many people think that soy isoflavones are natures Clomid and will stimulate ovulation. Clomid binds to estrogen receptor cells and blocks them in the hypothalamus. Once these are blocked your brain no longer receives signals from estrogen. This tricks you body into thinking you have low levels of estrogen (which is released from your follicles as they are maturing). This confuses your body and then Gonadotropin-releasing hormone (GNRH) signals release of Follicle Stimulating Hormone (FSH) which signals the follicle to release estrogen. The hope is that the Clomid will increase FSH production which will stimulate the follicles to release estrogen and then ovulation will occur.
The problem with using soy isoflavones in the same way is that they bind weakly to estrogen receptor sites. So while some of the soy isoflavones are binding others are just creating excess estrogen. There is also insufficient data supporting the use of soy isoflavones in this way. The research goes back and forth, some say it will work for some people and other studies show that soy isoflavones have potential risk of damaging the Thyroid as well as decreasing fertility.
I also recommend learning how to chart your cycle. This will help you to know if you are in fact ovulating, which may help you to narrow down which herbs are best for your needs.
All the best,
Dalene
Hi Dee,
It has been shown safe to use Vitex and Saw Palmetto at the same time. You can learn more about Saw Palmetto and suggested dosage, to see if it may be right for you here: http://natural-fertility-info.com/reduce-pcos-thinning-hair-excessive-body-hair-growth-with-saw-palmetto.html
I know that 2 months seems like FOREVER! Honestly the changes you are making may need to be permanent lifestyle changes, especially diet and exercise. Give your body 6 months. Be patient. Believe you are healing your body!
Best Wishes,
Dalene
I am 32 years old and went off birth control about a year and a half ago. Was not aware of the side effects of going off of birth control. My period is very heavy for the first two days which even before going on the pill was never this bad. I began the pill when i was 18 and was on it for about 13 years. Now that I have gone off of it my hormones are still not regular. I am also getting my period more often every 2.5 to 3 weeks. My skin has also been awful and coincides with when i get my period. The day before i am going to get it i have a breakout. By the time it clears, it breaksout again and i have my period again. I have also gained weight since going off the pill. My question is what in birth control am i missing that is causing this imbalance? Also i do not wish to go back on birth control, i am recently engaged and getting married and we do not want to prevent a possible pregnancy, but is there something i can take to give me what i am missing?
Thank you in advance!
Hi Stacy,
The goal for a natural fertility plan would be to balance hormones using diet, exercise, supportive herbs and supplements. Because you did not say why you were taking birth control (some women are prescribed it for some fertility issues), I am going to assume it was to protect you from unwanted pregnancy. In this case, the synthetic hormones are “telling” your body what to do, adding hormones in the body at times they would not naturally be produced and released on their own. This may cause your body to become confused, not knowing how or when to produce or release its own natural hormones on its own. If you are worried that you have hormonal imbalance now, due to the birth control, ask your doctor to test your hormone levels. It is very typical for your body to need some time to remember how to function on its own. Be patient. If you choose to use more birth control to have a regular menstrual cycle, you are just confusing the body more. Women who have used hormonal birth control long-term for many years have a lot of issues with hormonal balance. If you desire to balance your hormones naturally and go on to conceive a child, the suggestions in this article may be very helpful!
Best Wishes,
Dalene
Hi Darlene,
I have not taken birth control on a regular basis. I did recently take Next Choice the morning after pill which has sent my hormones into a whirlwind. I have digestion problems, insomnia, cramping, irregular menstrual cycle. Do you recommend cleansing in this situation? My cycles were normal 28 day cycles prior to using the Morning After Pill.
Thank you,
Kristie
Dear Dalane,
After giving birth to my daughter in 2008, I started getting the depo prova shots until 2011. While on depo I was not having periods at all. I stopped taking the shot last year in April 2011 that is after taking it for over two years. My periods started 2 months after I stopped and from then own I’ve had regular periods. We have been trying to get pregnant since my periods started over 7 months but we haven’t managed yet. Kindly advise what the problem could be and what shoud we do. My periods are very regular and I have a 24 day cycle.
Hello,
Really enjoyed your article, it has encouraged me to try new things. I guess i should start with a little background. Im 25 years old and I have had an irregular period since i can remember. It wasnt much of a problem until 4 years ago when i started to have a menstrual cycle bi-monthly and the doctor diagnosed me with ovaryan cysts. I was on the combined pill for a while until i had to stop because my body was producing too much estrogen and I had a lump on my breast due to that. A year and a half ago i got married but my husband and i weren’t really looking to get preganant right away until last year around mid August. Unfortunately my irregularities came back but this time my period stopped for two months. The doctor put me on the progestin only pill and have been taking it for 4 months but it is driving me crazy! My period is more irregular than ever, I get it twice amonth for 6-8 days sometimes and spotting in between. My mood has been changing and i feel like I’ve been gaining weight. I really want to stop taking them but am affraid of the consequences since I am not taking them for birth control purposes. What would you suggest?
Thanks
I am so happy to of found this article! It’s been a trying battle to figure out what’s been happening to my body lately! I was on birth control for 9 months. And when i started it i did notice a few things.. i developed bacterial vaginosis, and it was so hard to keep in check i ate 3 portion sized yogurts a day and if i didnt, i definitely didnt feel right! This is the main reason that coaxed me to stop it. And once i did, more things started to happen. within the week of stopping i had a yeast infection. That soon went away though and so did the gross fish-like smell of bv. I was so happy to be myself again!
Ive had so many other symptoms since then though that have my mind scrambling to figure out what is wrong with me?? All 3 months after i stopped BC pills, right before my period i would get canker sores. Havent had any for 2 months though.
I got really sickly nausous due to the cramps during my period after quitting. they were worse than ever! I quit in Sept ’11, it is now Feb ’12 and up until now my cycles stayed regular like they were on the pill, until this one! its been a month and a half still with no period!
I’ve been getting shortness of breath, bloating, headaches, and my neck, where i suspect my thyroid is, is sore! Ive been reading all about hyperthyroidism and it sounds spot on to what im going through! I recenlty started taking a multivitamin that is been making me feel slightly better, but i really cannot wait for my body and health to go back to normal. Never will i trust nor reccoment birth control pills to anyone
I was on birth control for over 6 years. I started on the ortho patch, then went to the pill, I tried the nuva ring for almost two years, then went back to the pill at the end. I have been off birth control since September. I have had my period fairly regularly every month. However, no sign of pregnancy. I bought a ovulation kit last month, and it told me the two days that were best to get pregnant, but then I started my period again today.
I’ve been told it will take a while, but I have two sisters with fertility issues, and I’m nervous that might run in the family. Also I’ve had a lot of acne, more than when I was a teenager. Plus, every time I switched birth controls I gained weight, and ever since I’ve gone off I’ve gained even more weight. I’m eating healthy, I take a prenatal vitamin every day, but I’m getting worried. Any advice?
Hi Dana,
Begin with changing your diet and exercise habits. Supporting your body through good nutrition and movement are the best place to begin. Fertility Cleansing is a great way to support proper hormonal balance in the body, in addition to diet and exercise changes. Next, are you considering herbs that help to regulate the cycle? That would be something to research after that. If in another six months you are still struggling to get pregnant, it may be time to get some fertility testing done. If you feel lost, we do offer consultations. Keep up the charting! Consider the steps listed in this article, they are put there to serve as a guide.
Best Wishes,
Dalene
Hi Sarah,
Thank you for sharing your experience!
Dalene
Hi Kris,
Even with the 1 time use of the “morning after pill” many women experience irregular periods for months to a year. Fertility Cleansing may be helpful for getting your cycle back on track.
Best Wishes,
Dalene
Hi Marjorie Chimasa,
Even though you have a very regular cycle, you cycle length is short. 24 days is not very long and there may not be enough time to build an adequate uterine lining. If you do not chart your cycle I urge you to learn how. Figure out when you ovulate, then count the days from after ovulation up to the first day you see any sign of bleeding. If that amount of time is less than 12 days, this may be a sign of Luteal Phase Defect. Most experts agree that a luteal phase less than 12 days does not give the uterus sufficient time to establish a nourishing lining for a growing fetus and therefore will cause a miscarriage if fertilization has occurred. The first step is to learn to chart, this will help you to determine if and when you are ovulating, then determine how long your luteal phase is.
Best Wishes,
Dalene
Hi Jo,
There are natural ways to regulate the menstrual cycle and get rid of ovarian cysts. Birth control pills are like putting an band-aid on your fertility issues, they don’t solve the root of the issue.
Learn more here: Ovarian Cysts Remedies
Below are links to articles on herbs that are helpful for irregular cycles. These articles give full details about the herbs, which will help you to get an idea of what may be best for your body…
Vitex: http://natural-fertility-info.com/vitex
Dong Quai: http://natural-fertility-info.com/dong-quai-fertility-herb.html
Tribulus Terrestris: http://natural-fertility-info.com/tribulus-fertility.html
Maca: http://natural-fertility-info.com/maca
Pregnancy Prep: http://natural-fertility-info.com/increase-your-chances-of-becoming-pregnant-with-pregnancy-prep.html
Best Wishes,
Dalene