Oral hormonal contraception, commonly known as "the pill," was introduced in the USA in August 1960. It became available in Germany a year later. To date, it is estimated that more than 200 million women worldwide have used the pill for contraception.
In Germany, a growing number of women are choosing not to take the pill. In 2010, around 46% of women under 20 with statutory health insurance were prescribed the pill. By 2020, this figure had already dropped to 35%, and the trend continues to decline
According to the AOK, the reasons for this negative trend are due to women's increased awareness: the pill is not a lifestyle product, but a medication that strongly interferes with the hormonal balance and can also cause severe side effects. (3)
Side effects after stopping the pill
The specific effects may depend on the type of contraception used and the individual factors of each person.
Reports from affected individuals suggest that discontinuing hormonal contraceptives can have the following side effects:
➤ Changes in the menstrual cycle
➤ stronger periods
➤ Cramps during ovulation
➤ Premenstrual syndrome (PMS)
➤ Changes in mood
➤ Weight changes
➤ Acne
➤ unwanted hair growth
➤ Hair loss
➤ Headaches
➤ sensitive breasts
➤ Changes in libido
Some of these effects, such as changes in the menstrual cycle, can last longer. It can take several months for the natural menstrual cycle to return.
Do you have post-pill syndrome and your body is out of balance? Don't stress, on our website you will find knowledge, tips and natural support to bring your hormones back into balance .
What are the advantages of stopping the pill?
The benefits of stopping the pill vary from person to person, such as:
➤ clearer skin
➤ lighter periods
➤ better mood
➤ Increased libido
How does the body change after stopping the pill?
When a person stops taking the pill, the body can react in various ways. This is known as post-pill syndrome, although this is not an official medical diagnosis.
Here are some changes that may occur:
1. Menstrual cycle
The pill normally suppresses ovulation. After stopping the pill, it can take some time for the cycle to normalize and ovulation to resume. During this time, periods may be more irregular or heavier than usual.
2. Hormonal changes
The pill contains hormones that affect the body's hormonal balance. After stopping the pill, it can take some time for the hormonal balance to return to normal. During this time, hormonal changes can lead to skin problems, mood swings, and other symptoms.
3. Physical changes
Some women may notice physical changes after stopping the pill, such as weight loss or gain, breast changes, or loss of libido. Because the pill affects vital organs like the intestines and liver, bowel problems can also occur.
Why do I suddenly smell under my armpits? Yes, body odor can also change when you stop taking the pill and your hormones change.
4. Fertility
Most women become fertile again after stopping the pill. However, it can take several months for the cycle to normalize and ovulation to resume.
5. Long-term effects
Although the pill is a safe and effective contraceptive, some studies have shown long-term health effects. Some women have reported experiencing a lower sex drive or problems with mood or libido after stopping the pill.
6. Recurrence of symptoms
If the pill was used to treat symptoms such as menstrual cramps or hot flashes, these symptoms may return after stopping the pill.
How long does the hormonal change take after stopping the pill?
The duration of hormonal changes after stopping the pill varies from person to person. It can take several weeks to months for hormone levels to normalize and the natural menstrual cycle to return. In some cases, however, it can take a few years for the cycle to fully normalize.
If you experience symptoms after stopping the pill that last for more than 1 year, you should consult a doctor.
What helps with blemished skin after stopping the pill?
After stopping the pill, hormonal changes can occur that may lead to breakouts. Here are some tips that can help reduce the occurrence of breakouts:
1. Healthy diet
A balanced and healthy diet with plenty of fruit, vegetables and whole grain products can help keep the skin healthy.
2. Drink enough water
Drinking enough water is important for healthy skin, as it can help flush toxins from the body and keep the skin moisturized.
3. Avoid stress
Stress can lead to hormonal changes that can cause breakouts. Try reducing stress through relaxation exercises, yoga, and a proper diet.
4. Dietary supplements
The right nutritional supplements can help flush toxins from the body and replenish your nutrient stores when dealing with hormonally related acne caused by stopping the pill.
Conclusion
Although there's limited research on this topic, it's known that it can take some time for your hormone levels to stabilize and your body to return to a state of calm. Be patient with yourself, stick to your routine that feels good, and support your body during this phase – both internally and externally.
Stay informed and take care of your health! If you have any questions on this topic, we look forward to your comments and emails at hello@fembites.com .
Disclaimer: When we write "woman", we mean all people who have a menstrual cycle.
Sources:
(1) Birth control. (2023). https://www.fda.gov/consumers/free-publications-women/birth-control
(2) Contraceptive implant: Your contraception guide. (2021). https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/contraception/contraceptive-implant/
(3) Cooper DB, et al. (2022). Oral contraceptive pills. http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK430882/
(4) 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/
(5) Hwang JH. (2019). Treatment of postpill amenorrhea with abdominal obesity by traditional Korean medicine treatment focused on pharmacopuncture and moxibustion.https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC6736472/
(6) Niemann, J, et al. (2022). What happens when you stop using the combined contraceptive pill? A qualitative study protocol on consequences and supply needs for women who discontinued the combined contraceptive pill in Germany.
https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC9237896/
(7) When will my periods come back after I stop taking the pill? (2022).
https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/contraception/when-periods-after-stopping-pill/
