Infertility and contraceptive pill

Hormonal contraception is one of the most effective methods of birth control. Modern third-generation hormonal contraceptives contain minimal doses of estrogens and progestogens, making them safer and more selective. Unlike previous generations, they are better tolerated, reduce the risk of thrombosis, have less impact on carbohydrate and lipid metabolism, and minimize side effects such as weight gain and mood swings.

Effect of contraceptive pills on fertility

Contraceptive pills do not cause infertility, as confirmed by numerous studies published in leading medical journals such as The Lancet and Fertility and Sterility. After stopping the pill, a woman's fertility returns to its baseline level. Infertility is most often associated with anomalies in the female reproductive system or other conditions affecting fertility.

Benefits of hormonal contraception

If well chosen, hormonal contraceptives not only prevent unwanted pregnancies but also have a number of other positive effects:

• Reduction in the risk of breast, ovarian, and endometrial cancer;
• Reduction of symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS);
• Reduction in the likelihood of an ectopic pregnancy;
• Improvement in skin condition in cases of acne and hirsutism (when using combined oral contraceptives);
• Therapeutic effects on endometriosis, cervical ectopy, and other gynecological pathologies.

Restoration of the cycle after stopping contraceptives

After stopping hormonal contraceptives, the menstrual cycle is generally restored within 2 to 3 months, after which the woman can become pregnant. The use of these medications does not have a negative impact on future pregnancies and does not increase the risk of malformations in the fetus.

Individual approach to choosing contraception

Hormonal contraception is recommended for women who wish to control their reproduction. Pills can be used in the post-abortion period and after childbirth (after three weeks in the absence of lactation).

The choice of contraceptive method is made by a gynecologist, taking into account the following factors:

• the patient's age
• Hormonal background;
• Presence of children;
• Hereditary factors;
• Existing and concurrent diseases;
• The individual characteristics of the body.

If necessary, the doctor may prescribe additional laboratory tests to assess the condition of the liver, pancreas, and blood coagulation.

Contraindications to taking hormonal contraceptives

Hormonal contraceptives are contraindicated in a number of diseases and conditions. In these cases, other contraceptive methods may be recommended, including barrier methods (condoms, diaphragms), hormone-free IUDs, natural family planning methods, or, in extreme cases, surgical sterilization.

Major contraindications:

• Hormone-dependent tumors of the genital organs;
• Severe liver and kidney diseases;
• Severe hypertension;
• Deep vein thrombosis and thromboembolism;
• Complicated diabetes mellitus;
• Obesity;
• Severe cardiovascular disease.

Contraceptive pills are a safe and effective method of birth control. They do not cause infertility and have many health benefits for women. However, before starting to use them, it is important to consult a doctor to choose the most appropriate contraceptive option for one's body.

For more information on hormonal contraceptives and expert advice on the question "Can the contraceptive pill cause infertility?", make an appointment at the Natuvitro Clinic.

Useful resources

Visit the section IVF with egg donation to learn more about IVF with egg donation.

Visit the section IVF with Double Donation to learn more about IVF with Double Donation.