How long do I have to be off birth control pills before trying to conceive?
Check with your own doctor, but many medical professionals will recommend that the woman have two full cycles (about two months) with no birth control pills to get all the hormones completely out of her system. There is a slightly elevated risk of problems with the pregnancy if conceived while the hormones are still in the womans system. However, do not be alarmed if you have become pregnant while on birth control or immediately following stopping their use. The overwhelming percentage of these pregnancies produces healthy children. The two cycle recommendation also helps the woman to get regular again. Birth control pills typically put the woman on a false cycle of 28 days. Though 28 days is frequently average, many women will have a slightly shorter or longer cycle by a couple days. Having these two clean cycles will help the woman better understand her own cycles and potential timing of ovulation.
