Do modern contraceptive methods cause infertility?

Reviewed by Yoshinori Abe, MD

Internal Medicine

Modern contraceptives do not cause infertility. Fertility typically returns quickly after stopping most methods, including birth control pills, IUDs, implants, and patches. While the Depo-Provera shot may delay fertility for several months, it does not cause permanent infertility. Decades of research confirm that contraceptive use has no lasting impact on a person's ability to conceive.

If you're struggling to get pregnant or experiencing unusual symptoms after stopping contraception, the underlying cause may be unrelated to your birth control. Age, hormonal imbalances, thyroid conditions, PCOS, or other health factors could be at play. Taking a free, instant, online symptom check can help you identify potential causes, understand what your body is telling you, and guide your next steps—whether that's reassurance, lifestyle adjustments, or knowing when to see a doctor.

Reviewed for medical accuracy: 07/20/2026

Important Next Steps

Discover if infertility needs medical attention Learn possible causes of your infertility Find out if symptoms suggest infertility Find OTC options for fertility-related symptoms Find fertility specialists near you See medically valid home remedies for infertility Understand if infertility needs urgent care

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Explanation

Modern contraceptives are designed to prevent pregnancy while they are being used, but they do not cause long-term infertility. Research Findings:

Beliefs vs. Reality: Some people believe that using modern contraceptives can lead to infertility, but studies show this is not true.
Fertility Returns: After stopping contraceptive use, a person's ability to get pregnant usually returns to what it was before using birth control.
Hormone Levels: Studies have looked at hormone levels, like the Anti-Müllerian hormone, in contraceptive users and found no evidence of long-term effects on fertility. Overall, modern contraceptives are safe and effective for preventing pregnancy and do not have lasting effects on a person's ability to have children in the future. If you have concerns about your reproductive health or are experiencing any unusual symptoms, you can check your symptoms to better understand what might be happening with your body.

(References)

Sedlander E, Bingenheimer JB, Thiongo M, Gichangi P, Rimal RN, Edberg M, & Munar W. (2018). Exploring the Belief that Modern Contraceptive Use .... Studies in family planning, 30411794.
Fraser IS, & Weisberg E. (1982). Fertility following discontinuation of different methods .... Contraception, 6759030.
Hariton E, Shirazi TN, Douglas NC, Hershlag A, & Briggs SF. (2021). Anti-Müllerian hormone levels among contraceptive users. American journal of obstetrics and gynecology, 34126087.

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