The decision to stop using contraceptives is often a sign that a woman is getting her body ready for conception. In cases where the birth control is hormonally based, it might take a bit of time for its effects to dispelled from the body so that conception can happen. Even so, getting off birth control can have side effects on the body that many women in Kenya do not expect until they experience it for themselves. These effects may not be the same for all women as it is usually determined by the type of contraceptive and the amount of time it has been used to prevent pregnancy.
Although the experiences of stopping the use of birth control may differ from one woman to another, there some side effects that are common and they include:
• Increased libido
Most women in Kenya experience a lowered libido at the onset of contraceptive use due to modification of hormonal production. However, many experience similar changes when they no longer take contraceptives with the main one being an increase in their libido which was highly suppressed by birth control. The increased libido makes it easier for women to desire their partner resulting in conception immediately or over time.
• Skin breakout
Some women that suffer from acne might see them resurface on the skin when they stop taking pills as birth control. These pimples are often as a result of androgen levels being high as they are no longer regulated by synthetic hormones often introduced into the body through pills or similar contraceptives. Most times, the appearance of acne will be around the time your period is about to start.
• Irregular menstrual periods
The inability to anticipate your period and how long it lasts afterwards is common when a woman discontinues the use of birth control. The irregular periods may also make it a bit harder to track ovulation thus delaying getting pregnant which is the main reason for getting off the contraceptive. Also, some women in Kenya become irritable and moody when having their periods making them very unpleasant to be around till that time is over.
• Regular headaches
Although not common, getting headaches after stopping birth control is experienced by some mums that make the decision to get their bodies ready for conception. These headaches are attributed to the lowering of oestrogen levels and are likely to disappear over time. If the migraines/headaches persist over an extended time period, it is advisable to seek the services of a medical professional.
• Reduced breast tissue
The introduction of progesterone in the body through hormonal contraceptives usually results in a woman’s breasts appearing bigger and sensitive to touch. However, the reduction or complete elimination of this hormone due to getting off birth control may make them less tender and much smaller in size.
Overall, discontinuation of contraceptives comes with a variety of side effects for women making it important to learn about them and prepare to deal with them in advance.
