How to Conceive After Birth Control
- 1). Visit your doctor for a health evaluation to make sure that you don't have any underlying medical issues that may prevent you from getting pregnant. For example, if you had irregular periods or problems ovulating before you started using birth control, then the problem may still be present.
- 2). Whether you are using birth control pills, the patch, taking the Depo-Provera shot or using an intrauterine device (IUD), you should complete the entire cycle of that form of birth control before you try to conceive a child. This helps to prevent irregular bleeding. For instance, a package of birth control pills normally lasts for 1 month (unless you’re using Seasonique or Seasonale pills which are given as a 3-month pack). Be sure to finish taking all of the pills for that month before you stop using birth control all together.
- 3). Use a supplement to assist you with your pregnancy. If you’ve used birth control for an extended period of time, you may not get pregnant right away. Although some women begin ovulating within 2 weeks after getting off of the pill, other women may take months or even a year before their bodies get back to normal. You may consider talking to your doctor about taking a preconception supplement (400 to 600 micrograms of folic acid) to help you get pregnant sooner and to improve your preconception health.
- 4). Monitor your monthly cycles. In order to successfully get pregnant, your body needs to ovulate and you should have regular menstrual cycles. If you have not received your first menstrual cycle within 3 months of taking your last birth control pill, you should definitely see your doctor. However, it may take a little longer to get your first cycle if you were taking the Depo-Provera shot, because 1 shot lasts for 3 months.
- 5). Give yourself time to get pregnant. It is important not to panic or give up if you do not get pregnant right way. Unnecessary stress can affect your ability to conceive. Try to relax, remain calm and be patient throughout this process.
