Can Birth Control Affect My Fertility?

There’s a lot of confusion when it comes to hormonal birth control and fertility. Many women wonder if years of being on the Pill, for example, has somehow ruined their chances of becoming mothers. The short answer is no—birth control doesn’t negatively affect your fertility in the long run. Instead, it’s designed to temporarily delay your fertility to prevent pregnancy in the here and now. Once you stop taking birth control, whether you were using oral or injectable contraceptives, the patch, or an IUD, your normal fertility levels will return. The big key if you’re coming off birth control with plans for a baby is to address the possible nutrient deficiencies, which really can impact your fertility. Here’s what else to know about birth control and fertility.

KEY TAKEAWAYS

  • Birth control temporarily affects your fertility, or your ability to become pregnant.
  • Once you stop using birth control, your normal fertility levels will return, though the timeline can vary depending on the form of birth control you were using.
  • Research shows that birth control depletes certain nutrients, including vitamins B6 and B12, folic acid, vitamin C, magnesium and zinc, so it’s important to eat a healthy diet and supplement wisely.
  • Experts recommend taking a prenatal vitamin during childbearing years to ensure you’re getting the right nutrients in the right amounts.

Hormonal Birth Control Basics

The goal of birth control is to prevent pregnancy, so yes, it does indeed temporarily affect your fertility (i.e., your ability to become pregnant). Everyone responds to hormonal birth control in their own way. It’s typical, for example, to experience different menstrual effects, depending on the type of birth control you use and your own physiology. Your period may be lighter or heavier, far more regular, irregular, or even gone altogether. After cycling off birth control, it’s normal to experience some inconsistency for a little while. Any irregularities you had before starting birth control are also likely to return.

Once you come off your hormonal birth control of choice, your fertility returns. Depending on the form of birth control you use, it can take varying amounts of time for the associated hormones to leave your body. Here’s what a 2020 study found (1):

  • Injectable contraceptives: 5-8 menstrual cycles
  • Patch: 4 cycles
  • Oral contraceptives: 3 cycles
  • Vaginal rings: 3 cycles
  • Hormonal and copper IUDs and implants: 2 cycles

There is evidence that effects of contraceptive injections can take up to one year to subside, so keep that in mind if a baby is in the near future (2). Still, rest assured that no matter which contraception you use, there is zero research to support the idea that it will harm your fertility—and that’s true no matter what you're using or how long you’ve taken it (3).

The Nutrient Shortage

Studies do show, however, that birth control can deplete specific nutrients (4). It’s a little-known but incredibly common side effect. While it’s a subtle decline, it can add up if you’re on birth control long term, which is the case for many women. To stave off this nutrient nosedive, many experts recommend that women take a high-quality prenatal vitamin during their childbearing years, especially if they’re also using hormonal contraceptives.

“Taking a high-quality and robust prenatal for at least three months before transitioning off of hormonal contraceptives is one of the best steps you can take to prevent post-birth control syndrome,” says Carly Hartwig, a holistic reproductive health advocate and fertility awareness educator through CLWC. “This is especially critical for women who plan to try to conceive after transitioning off, as the nutrient deficit caused by hormonal contraceptives can impact the health of your pregnancy and the health of your baby.”

So, what’s at stake? Generally, reserves of the following nutrients are all tend to drop while you use contraceptives:

That’s why it’s important to prioritize a nutrient-dense diet. To top off what you’re losing, you should be regularly eating eggs, dairy, spinach, lentils, seafood, cashews and vegetable juice. You can also supplement with Beli for Women, which has all of these nutrients and more. It’s a scientifically-aligned prenatal vitamin designed to support your fertility with all the vitamins, minerals and antioxidants you need for a successful conception and pregnancy. In fact, it’s what Hartwig recommends to all her clients. “It’s easy on your gut (hormonal contraceptives also disrupt your gut microbiome) and contains supportive amounts of essential nutrients that are depleted, like folate and zinc,” she says.

Hormonal imbalance can be another hurdle after coming off birth control. Hormonal contraceptives inhibit hormone production as a means of preventing pregnancy (specifically, pathways for GnRH, LH and FH, which suppresses ovulation). When you stop taking birth control, pathways for these hormones can take a little time to regain proper function. Since balanced hormones are key for fertility, it’s wise to take steps to maintain a healthy weight, be mindful of nutrition, exercise regularly, manage stress, and supplement with a good prenatal vitamin. You know, all the standard pillars of fertility!

The Birth Control/Fertility Misconception

There are a few things that likely contributed to this persistent idea that birth control negatively and permanently affects fertility. First, there really was a problematic IUD that actually did permanent damage back in the 70s and had to be yanked from the market. In the decades since, hormonal birth control has become safer and lower dose, and none of the options on the market today negatively affect fertility. Since they can delay fertility even after you stop, some people take that as proof that they actually cause infertility. Other people blame birth control for certain irregularities and conditions, like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). That’s likely because some birth control methods, like the pill, create an artificial menstrual cycle that’s really dependable. The regularity can mask pre-existing conditions that seem to suddenly appear once birth control is discontinued, and it’s easy enough to assume that it was the contraception itself that caused the issue.

The Bottom Line

Don’t be concerned that years of hormonal birth control have ruined your fertility—they haven’t. If you’re worried about infertility, it’s important to speak to your doctor about what might be going on. In the meantime, manage what’s within your control by embracing a healthy lifestyle, including supplementing with a clean, non-toxic prenatal vitamin (and we have one in mind!).

Article resources

  1. Yland, J et al. 2020. Pregravid contraceptive use and fecundability: prospective cohort study. https://www.bmj.com/content/371/bmj.m3966
  2. The contraceptive injection. (2018). https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/contraception/contraceptive-injection/
  3. Girum, T et al. (2018). Return of fertility after discontinuation of contraception: a systematic review and meta-analysis. https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6055351/
  4. Palmery, M et al. (2013). Oral contraceptives and changes in nutritional requirements. https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/23852908/

Additional Resources

Most births occur between June and early November. Count back nine months, and you’ll see that places most conceptions in the fall and winter. So what’s the deal? Is it the cold weather, all the festivities, or something else driving us between the sheets? That ugly sweater is pretty cute, but you can chalk this up to reproductive seasonality. Here’s what that means, why it matters, and what to do to use it to your advantage.

Read More

Many men overlook how crucial sperm health is until it's too late. Red flag statements can signal poor sperm quality. Whether trying to conceive or maintaining health, recognizing these signs early can impact your fertility and well-being.

Read More

Fall is not just a time for pumpkin spice lattes and cooler weather; it’s also an opportunity to optimize fertility, particularly for men. Cooler temperatures naturally benefit sperm health, while Beli for Men provides the essential nutrients needed to take those benefits even further. 

Read More

Egg quantity and quality are critical aspect of our reproductive well-being. By understanding the ideal number of eggs at various ages, why egg quality and quantity matter, and how to nurture and improve egg health, we can make informed decisions about our fertility and overall health.

Read More

Miscarriage is a complex issue, and while sperm health is just one factor, it's a crucial one. By understanding the statistics and research surrounding miscarriage and sperm health, couples can take proactive steps to improve fertility outcomes. Beli Vitality for Men offers a comprehensive fertility supplement solution, supported by industry research and designed to improve sperm health. By combining Beli Vitality with healthy lifestyle choices, couples can optimize their fertility journey and increase their chances of a successful pregnancy.

Read More

While it’s true that popular hair loss meds work minor miracles on that receding hairline and back-of-the-head bald patch, it’s also true that it can come with side effects—some of them sexual. So, what does that mean in terms of male fertility? Here’s what couples should understand about the effects of popular hair-loss medications on sperm health.

Read More

The long, lazy days of summer aren’t just prime vacation days. Summer could actually be an especially fertile season, which may be of interest to couples who are interested in starting a family. If you’re angling for parenthood this summer, here’s what to know about the season of fertility.

Read More

The summer heat really can have a temporary effect on male fertility, so doing what you can to keep cool, especially if the goal is becoming a dad, is really important. Here are tips to keep you and the boys cool this summer.

Read More

If you’re no stranger to the telltale signs of seasonal allergies—sneezing, itching, nasal congestion, irritated eyes, the works—you’re likely familiar with antihistamines. When you’re actively trying to conceive, there’s more to understand about histamines, seasonal allergies and how it affects your fertility.

Read More

When the plan is a baby, but you’re having a hard time conceiving, it’s normal to start wondering why. While there can be a number of issues in play, one tends to be overlooked: sleep quality. Specifically, men who have the sleep disorder sleep apnea could be at greater risk of fertility issues. Now, new research is drawing a more definitive link between sleep apnea and male fertility. Let’s review.

Read More

Fact: You can’t look at a guy—or eyeball his semen sample, for that matter—and determine his fertility. It just doesn’t work that way. The only way to truly assess sperm health is with a semen analysis. But there are a few lifestyle choices and truths that may indicate whether a man’s sperm is healthy and happy. 

Read More

While PCOS can be a challenging condition to manage, natural supplements like inositol that are included in Beli Preconception Boost offer a beacon of hope. Inositol's ability to improve insulin sensitivity, hormone balance, and ovulatory function makes it a valuable tool in the PCOS management toolkit. 

Read More

The concern that hormonal contraception affects future fertility is making the rounds on social media again. But research continues to show that all that worry is for naught. While birth control doesn’t cause long-term fertility issues, it can mask them by creating an artificial cycle—something that’s important to understand.

Read More

While it’s lumped into the “bodily fluid” category, semen is a complex cocktail of compounds designed to support fertility. Like sperm quality, semen health can be influenced by lifestyle factors—an important realization for couples trying to conceive. From color to consistency, here’s what healthy semen looks like.

Read More

There’s a lot of chatter when it comes to male masturbation and what it says about a man’s fertility or whether it’s an issue when a couple is actively trying to conceive. And in the interest of clearing up the confusion, we’re taking a facts-based approach to the topic of men, masturbation and fertility.

Read More

For many of us, our twenties and even thirties are a time when the focus is on pregnancy prevention. And that’s okay! But even when the idea of motherhood is miles away there is tremendous value in understanding your fertility health and what you can do to support it during these young, carefree days.

Read More

Once a month, PMS symptoms make their unpleasant presence known. And while knowing what’s happening won’t make PMS magically disappear, it can help you manage symptoms by balancing hormones and supporting your reproductive health. Let’s review.

Read More

Raise your hand if you already know that you have a biological clock. From age 35 and beyond, there is a natural decline in testosterone and sperm quality. Just as people lose muscle strength, flexibility and endurance with age, sperm also tend to lose their "fitness" over the life cycle. But what does that mean—and does it really matter?

Read More

It’s an easy assumption, but you’re much better off thinking that every prenatal vitamin is wildly different in terms of composition, nutrient quality and, importantly, nutrient amount. Not only is that actually true, it puts you in the smart consumer mindset of understanding what matters in a prenatal vitamin—and why.

Read More

If you have endometriosis, you can already recite its lengthy list of pretty terrible symptoms. And the standard options for managing those symptoms — medications, hormone therapy, hormonal birth control, estrogen blockers, surgery —  aren’t always great. But there is evidence that a so-called “endometriosis diet” can help.

Read More

Men really do benefit from specialized nutrition in the form of a prenatal vitamin that’s formulated to support sperm health. Here’s what that looks like, and how specific nutrients can impact a man’s fertility health before fatherhood.

Read More

Shilajit is finally getting the credit it’s due, and we’re proud to point out that our proprietary formula was the very first to include this powerful Ayurvedic compound. Here’s why shilajit is rapidly becoming the darling of the male fertility world–and what you’re missing if you’re skipping it.

Read More

Ever wondered why men produce so much darn sperm, especially if only one of them will ultimately fertilize the egg? There are millions of sperm in normal ejaculate because it increases the likelihood that one will reach the egg and seal the deal. It begs the question, what exactly happens on the journey to the egg?

Read More

Optimal nutrition plays a pivotal role in enhancing fertility and supporting a healthy pregnancy. A diet rich in essential nutrients, such as vitamins, minerals, antioxidants, and healthy fats, lays the foundation for reproductive health.

Read More

Is there anything unsexier than scheduled, pressure-ridden, trying-like-hell-to-conceive sex? But good news. We’ve found handy workarounds and tricks of the trade, so forget the basal temperature chart for a second and read on for four ways to keep things hot when you’re TTC.

Read More

If you’re noticing any of these signs, the good news is that it’s simple to make changes. Switching to a high-quality prenatal like Beli's Prenatal—one formulated with chelated minerals, methylated B vitamins, 400 mg of choline, and vegan vitamin D3—can make a world of difference. 

Read More

Egg quantity and quality are critical aspect of our reproductive well-being. By understanding the ideal number of eggs at various ages, why egg quality and quantity matter, and how to nurture and improve egg health, we can make informed decisions about our fertility and overall health.

Read More

The long, lazy days of summer aren’t just prime vacation days. Summer could actually be an especially fertile season, which may be of interest to couples who are interested in starting a family. If you’re angling for parenthood this summer, here’s what to know about the season of fertility.

Read More

If you’re no stranger to the telltale signs of seasonal allergies—sneezing, itching, nasal congestion, irritated eyes, the works—you’re likely familiar with antihistamines. When you’re actively trying to conceive, there’s more to understand about histamines, seasonal allergies and how it affects your fertility.

Read More

Choline is an overlooked essential nutrient in many prenatal vitamin formulas, and it's a major oversight. Here at Beli, we've been sounding the alarm for years and it's gratifying to see that the market is beginning to catch up. That's thanks in part to articles like "The 7 Best Choline Supplements for Pregnancy, According to a Prenatal Dietitian" from Parents. Spoiler: Beli for Women made the list.

Read More

While PCOS can be a challenging condition to manage, natural supplements like inositol that are included in Beli Preconception Boost offer a beacon of hope. Inositol's ability to improve insulin sensitivity, hormone balance, and ovulatory function makes it a valuable tool in the PCOS management toolkit. 

Read More

The concern that hormonal contraception affects future fertility is making the rounds on social media again. But research continues to show that all that worry is for naught. While birth control doesn’t cause long-term fertility issues, it can mask them by creating an artificial cycle—something that’s important to understand.

Read More

For many of us, our twenties and even thirties are a time when the focus is on pregnancy prevention. And that’s okay! But even when the idea of motherhood is miles away there is tremendous value in understanding your fertility health and what you can do to support it during these young, carefree days.

Read More

Once a month, PMS symptoms make their unpleasant presence known. And while knowing what’s happening won’t make PMS magically disappear, it can help you manage symptoms by balancing hormones and supporting your reproductive health. Let’s review.

Read More

It’s an easy assumption, but you’re much better off thinking that every prenatal vitamin is wildly different in terms of composition, nutrient quality and, importantly, nutrient amount. Not only is that actually true, it puts you in the smart consumer mindset of understanding what matters in a prenatal vitamin—and why.

Read More

If you have endometriosis, you can already recite its lengthy list of pretty terrible symptoms. And the standard options for managing those symptoms — medications, hormone therapy, hormonal birth control, estrogen blockers, surgery —  aren’t always great. But there is evidence that a so-called “endometriosis diet” can help.

Read More
×

Change Shipping Country

Cancel