Addressing Myths About Contraceptives and Long-Term Fertility
For many years, myths and misconceptions have surrounded contraceptives, causing unnecessary worry and confusion. One of the most persistent concerns is the impact of birth control on long-term fertility. Many people worry that using contraceptives for an extended period might lead to infertility or complications when trying to conceive in the future. However, the reality is quite different.
This article aims to debunk common birth control myths and provide accurate information about contraception and long-term fertility. If you’re considering contraceptives but have concerns, this guide will help separate fact from fiction.
Myth 1: Birth Control Causes Permanent Infertility
One of the most widespread contraception myths is that using birth control for a long time will make it difficult to conceive once you stop. In reality, contraceptives do not cause permanent infertility.
Most people regain their fertility soon after discontinuing birth control. For example, fertility can return within days or weeks after stopping the contraceptive pill. For some, it may take a couple of months for regular ovulation to resume, but this is not the same as infertility. Long-term studies have shown that birth control does not have any lasting negative effects on fertility.
Myth 2: Contraceptives Affect Your Ability to Get Pregnant Later
Another common belief is that taking contraceptives for years will decrease the likelihood of pregnancy later. However, this is not backed by science. Many women successfully conceive after using contraceptives for several years.
Some contraceptive methods, like the contraceptive injection, may delay the return of normal ovulation for several months. However, this does not mean that fertility is permanently affected. Other methods, like the coil (IUD) or contraceptive patch, allow fertility to return almost immediately after discontinuation.
Myth 3: The Pill Builds Up in Your System
A widespread misconception is that the hormones in contraceptive pills build up in the body, leading to long-term fertility effects. This is untrue. The hormones used in contraceptives are metabolised and eliminated from the body fairly quickly.
Once you stop taking birth control pills, they no longer influence your reproductive system and normal ovulation resumes. The time it takes for ovulation to return varies from person to person, but there is no long-term accumulation of hormones.
Myth 4: Birth Control Damages the Uterus
Some people worry that contraceptives, particularly hormonal ones, can damage the uterus and make pregnancy difficult in the future. In reality, there is no scientific evidence to support this claim.
Hormonal contraceptives like pills, patches, and injections prevent pregnancy by temporarily altering hormone levels, not by causing permanent changes to the reproductive organs. In fact, some birth control methods can even have protective benefits, such as reducing the risk of ovarian and endometrial cancers.
Myth 5: Birth Control Causes Birth Defects in Future Pregnancies
There is no evidence to suggest that using contraceptives increases the risk of birth defects in future pregnancies. Most contraceptives are completely out of your system within days or weeks after stopping them.
If you stop using birth control and become pregnant shortly after, your baby is not at an increased risk of birth defects due to previous contraceptive use. However, it is always a good idea to discuss family planning with your doctor to ensure you’re in the best health before conception.
How Different Contraceptives Affect Fertility
Different types of contraceptives work in various ways, but none of them cause long-term fertility issues. Here’s a look at how some common contraceptives impact fertility:
- Oral Contraceptive Pills (e.g., Brevinor, Eloine, Femodene): Fertility returns within a few weeks of stopping. These pills work by regulating hormones to prevent ovulation, but once discontinued, the body quickly resumes its natural cycle.
- Progestogen-Only Pills (POP) (e.g., Cerazette, Cerelle, Feanolla): Fertility can return almost immediately. Unlike combined pills, POPs do not consistently suppress ovulation, meaning there is little to no delay in the body’s ability to conceive after stopping them.
- Contraceptive Patches (e.g., Evra Patch): Normal ovulation resumes quickly after stopping. The patch delivers hormones transdermally, and once removed, hormonal levels drop quickly, allowing ovulation to resume in the next cycle.
- Contraceptive Injection: May take a few months for ovulation to return after stopping. This method delivers a long-lasting dose of progestogen, which can take some time to leave the system completely.
- Intrauterine Device (IUD/Coil): Fertility returns as soon as the device is removed. The IUD does not interfere with ovulation, meaning the body is ready for pregnancy almost immediately after removal.
Understanding Birth Control Side Effects
While birth control is safe for most people, some may experience temporary side effects. These can include:
- Mild nausea
- Breast tenderness
- Headaches
- Changes in menstrual cycle
- Mood changes
These side effects usually resolve within a few months as the body adjusts to the medication. If side effects persist, speak to a healthcare professional to explore alternative contraceptive options.
Reliable Contraceptive Options Available Online
If you’re looking for reliable contraceptive options, you can conveniently order them online at Pharmacy Planet. Some of the available options include:
- Brevinor Tablets: A combined oral contraceptive pill.
- Cerazette Tablets: A progestin-only pill for those who cannot take oestrogen.
- Cerelle Tablets: Another progestin-only contraceptive for pregnancy prevention.
- Dianette Tablets: Used for contraception and to treat severe acne and excess hair growth.
- Eloine Tablets: A contraceptive pill with a 24-day active ingredient cycle.
- Evra Patches: A convenient patch alternative to oral contraceptives.
- Feanolla Tablets: A progestogen-based contraceptive pill.
- Femodene Tablets: A combined oral contraceptive with high effectiveness.
You can explore these options and find the best fit for your needs at Pharmacy Planet.
Shop Trusted Contraceptives with Confidence
There are many contraception and fertility myths that can cause unnecessary worry. The truth is that contraceptives are safe and effective, and they do not cause permanent infertility. Whether you use the pill, patch, or IUD, your fertility will typically return once you stop using them.
Looking for a convenient and reliable way to get your contraception? Order online for discreet delivery and trusted options to suit your needs. Explore a wide range of contraceptive pills, patches, and more, all from the comfort of your home. Safe, effective, and hassle-free! Take control of your reproductive health today. Shop now and find the right contraceptive for you!

Authored By
HARMINDER ‘HARMY’ KAUR
BSc(hons) Pharmacy
GPhC Number: 2061107

Reviewed By
GURDEV SEHMI
BSc Pharm, MRPharmS, Independent Prescriber, Superintendent Pharmacist, Clinical Lead
GPhC Number: 2050925