Published on: 8/20/2025
Can long-term use of birth control pills cause infertility?
Long-term use of birth control pills does not cause infertility. Most women regain their fertility soon after stopping the pills.
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Explanation
Using birth control pills for a long time does not make women infertile. Research shows that most women can become pregnant soon after they stop taking the pills.
- Quick Return to Fertility: Many women regain their ability to become pregnant within a few months after stopping the pills.
- Temporary Delay Possible: Some women may experience a short delay in getting pregnant, but this is usually temporary and not permanent.
Studies have shown that after stopping birth control pills, women can expect their fertility to return to normal levels. This means they can get pregnant just like they could before they started using the pills. It is important to remember that every woman is different, and while some may become pregnant right away, others might take a little longer. But overall, birth control pills do not cause long-term problems with fertility.
(References)
- Girum T, & Wasie A. (2018). Return of fertility after discontinuation of contraception. Contraception and reproductive medicine, 30062044.
- Chasan-Taber L, Willett WC, Stampfer MJ, Spiegelman D, Rosner BA, Hunter DJ, et al. (1997). Oral contraceptives and ovulatory causes of delayed fertility. American journal of epidemiology, 9247010.
- Fraser IS, & Weisberg E. (1982). Fertility following discontinuation of different methods .... Contraception, 6759030.
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