Side effects of stopping the pill after prolonged use

If you’ve been on the pill for years and are thinking about stopping, it’s totally normal to have questions about what comes next. Whether you’re planning for pregnancy or switching birth control methods you might notice some changes—and that’s okay.

Everyone’s experience is a little different, but common side effects of stopping the pill can include changes in your cycle, mood shifts, and temporary weight fluctuations. These changes don’t mean something is wrong—they’re just signs that your body is adjusting to life without synthetic hormones.

Knowing what to expect can make this transition a lot easier. When you understand what’s happening and why, you’re better equipped to take care of yourself and make informed choices about your next steps. And if anything feels off or confusing, don’t hesitate to reach out to a healthcare provider who can help you sort through it.

What happens when you stop taking birth control pills

When you stop taking birth control pills, your body starts transitioning back to its natural rhythm. The hormones in oral contraceptives have been in charge for a while, so once you stop, your body needs time to adjust and begin producing its own estrogen and progesterone again.

This change can feel different for everyone. Some people notice shifts right away, while others ease through it more gradually. You might experience:

• Irregular periods
• Changes in cervical mucus
• Mild cramping or bloating
• Temporary acne or mood fluctuations

These are all signs that your body is rebalancing. Some people call them birth control withdrawal symptoms, but it’s more like your reproductive system waking back up and finding its own rhythm again.

Most people find things settle within a few months. If your periods are unpredictable during this time, that’s normal, too. For some, periods return right away, while others take a little longer.

If you’re feeling off or unsure, reach out to a medical provider for guidance; no question is too small to ask. And if you’re thinking about getting pregnant, the good news is that fertility often returns quickly once you stop the pill.

On the other hand, if you’re looking to switch to a new method of birth control, Nurx is here to support your next steps.

Common symptoms you might experience

When you stop using hormonal birth control, your body begins to shift back into its natural rhythm—and that adjustment can come with a few bumps along the way. These changes are your body’s way of recalibrating after relying on synthetic hormones, and understanding what to expect can help you feel more informed and in control during the transition.

In some cases, symptoms that show up after stopping the pill aren’t new—they’ve just been regulated by birth control. For example, if you started birth control to manage painful periods or acne, those issues might resurface.

Even though side effects are normal, if something doesn’t feel right, your provider can help you determine whether what you’re experiencing is part of the adjustment or a sign that a new treatment approach could help.

The following are some of the most common changes you might notice.

Changes in your menstrual cycle

It’s very common for your period to become irregular—or even disappear entirely—for a little while after stopping hormonal birth control. Your body’s working on establishing its own natural cycle again, which can take time.

Here’s what you might notice:

• Periods that come sooner or later than expected
• Lighter or heavier bleeding than you had before
• More or less cramping than you’re used to
• Cycles that vary in length from month to month

Some people get their period back quickly, while others may wait up to three months or more. All of that is within the range of normal.

Mood swings and emotional effects

Mood changes can sneak up on you after quitting the pill. One moment you’re feeling calm, and the next, your emotions might feel more intense or unpredictable. These shifts are tied to the return of your natural hormone patterns, and while they can be tough, they usually level out over time.

Few may face increased irritability, sadness, or anxiety. If that’s the case for you, know that there’s support available. Nurx providers can work with you to create a personalized care plan.

Acne and skin changes

Skin changes are one of the most noticeable effects of stopping the pill—especially if you originally started birth control to help with acne.

What you might see:

• Increased oiliness
• Breakouts, often around the jawline or chin
• Acne that worsens during specific points in your cycle

These changes are typically caused by a temporary increase in androgens, hormones that can contribute to clogged pores and excess oil. The good news? This phase usually doesn’t last forever, and effective acne treatments are available.

Breast tenderness and body changes

Breast tenderness is another common post-pill symptom. You may notice your breasts feel fuller, more sensitive, or slightly different throughout your cycle. This happens because your natural estrogen and progesterone levels are fluctuating again—something your breast tissue responds to quite a bit.

You might also notice subtle changes in breast size or shape. These shifts are usually tied to fluid retention or natural hormonal variations and tend to follow a pattern month to month.

Weight changes

Weight gain (or loss) after stopping birth control can be confusing and is often surrounded by myths. The reality is that most people won’t see major changes in weight just from going off the pill.

You might notice:

• A slight drop in weight if you were retaining water on the pill
• Increased appetite or food cravings during certain parts of your cycle
• Subtle changes in how your body stores fat

These fluctuations are typically mild and tend to stabilize as your body adjusts. If weight changes are a concern, a provider can help you explore potential causes and solutions tailored to your needs.

Hair loss and other changes

Hair shedding can catch some people off guard after stopping the pill. Certain types of birth control keep hair in its growth phase longer, so once you stop, more strands may enter the shedding phase at once.

This type of hair loss—called telogen effluvium—is temporary and usually peaks a few months after stopping the pill. It tends to resolve on its own, and most people see their hair return to its normal thickness within a year.

To support healthy regrowth:

• Be gentle when brushing or styling
• Avoid excessive heat or tight hairstyles
• Stay hydrated and nourish your body with a balanced diet

Other common symptoms to watch for

As your body recalibrates, you might also experience:

• Headaches or migraines
• Bloating or digestive discomfort
• Changes in libido (increased or decreased)

These are all normal signs of hormonal fluctuation, and they typically ease up within a few weeks or months.

What happens to your reproductive health?

When you stop taking the pill, your body begins a natural process of rebalancing—and for most people, that includes a quick return to fertility. Even after years of using hormonal contraception, it typically knows just what to do. Here’s what you need to know about it.

Future fertility

Many people wonder if long-term birth control use affects future fertility. The answer is reassuring: It doesn’t. Whether you’ve been on the pill for a few months or over a decade, research shows your ability to get pregnant remains largely unchanged. The pill temporarily pauses ovulation but doesn’t harm your reproductive system.

The return of ovulation

Ovulation can resume as quickly as a few weeks after your last pill, though it’s more common within a couple of months. Everyone’s timeline is different, but your body is simply picking up where it left off.

You might notice:

• Clear, stretchy cervical mucus (a sign of ovulation)
• Mild cramping on one side (called mittelschmerz)
• A slight rise in basal body temperature

If you’re trying to conceive—or avoid pregnancy—these signs can help you track your cycle. Some people also use ovulation predictor kits for more precision during this transition.

Past hormonal symptoms

If you originally started the pill to manage symptoms of conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or endometriosis, those symptoms may come back.

This doesn’t mean something new is wrong—it’s just your body returning to its natural hormonal rhythm. A trusted provider can help you explore other ways to manage those symptoms if they reappear.

New hormonal fluctuations

When hormonal birth control is no longer in the mix, your body starts producing its own estrogen and progesterone again. This can mean the return of premenstrual symptoms, sometimes stronger than you remember.

You might notice:

• Mood swings or irritability
• Bloating and food cravings
• Breast tenderness
• Fatigue in the days before your period

For some, PMS feels more intense post-pill, especially if it’s been years since you last experienced a natural cycle. Keeping track of symptoms can help you prepare for the harder days—and give your provider helpful information if you’re looking for ways to ease them.

When to reach out to your healthcare provider

It’s completely normal to have questions or concerns as your body adjusts after stopping birth control. While many changes are expected, some symptoms may need a closer look.

Reach out to your provider if:

• You haven’t had a period within three months of stopping the pill
• You’re experiencing intense mood shifts that interfere with your daily life
• You notice any unusual pain or bleeding

A few signs should never be ignored. Contact your in-person provider right away if you have:

• Very heavy bleeding (like soaking through a pad or tampon every hour)
• Ongoing or severe pelvic pain
• Symptoms of depression or anxiety that don’t seem to improve
• Any physical or emotional changes that feel concerning to you

Bottom line: trust your gut. If something feels off, it’s always okay to check in.

Connecting with your in-person primary care provider or gynecology provider can help you make sure everything’s on track. They can offer support, run tests if needed, and talk through ways to manage any symptoms you’re dealing with. 

Birth control options post-pill

If you’re thinking about stopping birth control pills but still want pregnancy protection, there are plenty of other birth control methods to consider that are safe and effective. What’s “best” really depends on your body, lifestyle, and personal preferences, and Nurx is here to help you find the right fit.

Non-hormonal options like the copper intrauterine device (IUD), condoms, diaphragms, or fertility awareness methods can be a good choice if you’re looking to avoid hormones altogether. The copper IUD, for example, offers hormone-free protection for up to 10 years, and once it’s placed, you don’t have to think about it.

Hormonal methods like the patch, ring, shot, or implant may be a better match if you’re open to hormones but want something different from daily pills. Each one delivers hormones a little differently than combined oral contraceptives and might have different side effects. Some people find they tolerate one method better than another, especially if they’ve had issues with pills in the past.

Hormonal intrauterine devices (IUDs) can also be a great middle ground. They release a small amount of progestin directly into the uterus, which many people find causes fewer side effects than pill-based methods.

Whatever your priorities—fewer hormones, less maintenance, or more control—there’s a birth control method that can work for you. And if you’re not sure where to start, a quick conversation with a provider can go a long way in helping you figure it out.

Taking on the transition

Coming off the pill after a long while is a meaningful step—and the side effects of stopping the pill after prolonged use can throw anyone off balance.

But, your body is incredibly resilient and capable of finding its rhythm again, even if things feel off at first. Side effects like mood shifts, irregular cycles, or breakouts can be frustrating, but they’re usually temporary signs that your hormones are recalibrating.

Whether you’re stopping birth control to try for pregnancy, switching to a different method, or better understanding your body’s natural cycle, you’re making a choice that deserves care and support. Track how you’re feeling, stay in touch with your provider, and give yourself the space to adjust.

At Nurx, we’re here to support your choices every step of the way. From expert guidance to personalized care plans, our team makes it simple to find what works for you. Explore birth control options or connect with a provider today at Nurx.com.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ):

What happens when you come off the pill after a long time?

Once you stop the pill, your body begins to return to its natural hormone rhythm—usually within about three months. During that adjustment period, it’s common to notice some changes. Symptoms the pill may have helped manage, like acne, headaches, or heavier periods, can come back. It’s all part of your body re-establishing its own cycle.

Does stopping birth control have any side effects?

Yes, your body may respond to the hormonal shift in a few different ways. You might notice light cramping, more cervical mucus, or changes in sex drive. These effects are usually temporary and just part of your system finding its new balance—especially if you’ve been on birth control for several years.

How long after stopping birth control do your hormones return to normal?

For most people, it takes about two to three months for hormone levels to stabilize and for regular periods to return. That timeline can vary depending on your individual health and the type of birth control you were using, but your body typically knows how to find its rhythm again.

The information provided is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. You should not rely upon this content for medical advice. If you have any questions or concerns, please talk to a medical professional.

Nurx does not provide talk therapy or crisis management. Services not offered in every state. Medications prescribed only if clinically appropriate, based on completion of the required consultation.  Individual results may vary.