Hormone changes disrupt the body
Oral contraceptives are a method chosen by many women to prevent pregnancy or control hormonal issues such as acne and irregular menstruation. However, when stopping use, the body often needs time to adapt back to its natural state.
Dr. Nupur Gupta - gynecologist and Director of Well Woman Clinic in Gurugram, India - said that birth control pills containing estrogen or progesterone hormones have the effect of preventing ovulation and changing the uterine environment to prevent pregnancy. When the pill is stopped, hormonal changes occur rapidly and can cause many fluctuations in the body.
One of the most noticeable changes is the ability to get pregnant again almost immediately. According to experts, hormones from birth control pills are eliminated after only a few days, so women can still conceive if they have sex without protective measures.
Acne and oily skin can also reappear. During medication, hormones are controlled stably, so the amount of oil on the skin decreases. When medication is stopped, hormones change, making sebum glands work more actively.
Menstruation, mood and weight can all change
Menstrual cycles are also a problem that worries many women after stopping birth control pills. Some people may experience abnormal bleeding, menstrual pain, or irregular menstruation in the first few months.
According to Professor Mary Jane Minkin - an obstetrician and gynecologist at Yale University School of Medicine, USA, this is a common reaction when the body restores natural endocrine activity. "Most women will stabilize their cycles again after a few months if there are no underlying medical conditions," she said.
In addition, many women notice increased libido after stopping birth control pills because hormones are no longer artificially controlled. However, hormonal changes can also cause mood swings, irritability, or become more sensitive in the early stages.
Some other changes include reducing breast size, weight loss due to reduced body water retention and the risk of vitamin D deficiency affecting bone health. Experts recommend that women closely monitor their bodies and consult a doctor if abnormally prolonged symptoms appear.