As many of you know, I am working on balancing my hormones and my cycle since going off hormonal birth control. I went off birth control “cold turkey” last April, and it has been quite the trek to get where I am today. For some, this is an easy process resulting in their cycle coming back to normal right away. Unfortunately, for me it hasn’t been that way.
I went off birth control for a few reasons: 1) rid my body of synthetic hormones, 2) learn more about my cycle, 3) fertility. After going off the pill, I waited three months (based on what my gynecologist recommended and other research I had done) before worrying about a problem. By waiting, I mean waiting to get a period and any sort of indication that my cycle was coming back. After the three months passed, I didn’t have a period, but luckily for me I didn’t have any other “weird” symptoms. I’ve read about weight gain and other symptoms that can happen from going off the pill, but I did not experience those. For me, not being regular was the most frustrating part for me. Being what I consider “healthy” in most aspects of my life, but not having a regular cycle was pretty devastating. This is when I really started to take control of my body and get to know it even more. Now, to your questions! I will note here that what works for me, is a mix of eastern and western medicine, so this is the approach I have taken on my personal journey.
What did you do first when you knew something wasn’t “right”?
My gynecologist told me to wait three months after going off the pill to come in. We had discussed this at my previous annual because I knew it was something I would be doing at some point in the year. The medical term for the absence of a period/cycle after three months is “amennhorrea.” So, with that, I left my gynecologist with a 10-day prescription of a progesterone medication in hopes to ignite a period. Lucky for me, it did, and I was instructed to come in during my cycle for some blood work. In the meantime, while waiting for results, my gyno recommended trying acupuncture and I did. I loved that she recommended more natural modalities as well - nothing but amazing things to say about the team at Northwestern Specialists for Women.
What types of issues are you experiencing after going off birth control?
The only “issue” (granted it’s the biggest one) I have experienced is the lack of a regular cycle. I have not had any other symptoms aside from the anxiety and stress that comes along with just wanting to be regular! I have had periods since going off birth control, however I am not regular (28ish day cycle is ideal). I know that having a cycle at all is progress, so I am continuing to stay positive and hopeful that with a little more time, everything will regulate.
How do you know your “unbalanced” / hormones are off?
Lack of a regular cycle / ovulation
Are you working with a General Practitioner or Specialist?
I don’t have a general practitioner, my gynecologist does all of my routine bloodwork etc. I am working with her, a naturopath and also a fertility specialist.
What form of birth control do you use now? Are you confident in it?
I am tracking my cycle using the Natural Cycles app. It has worked for me and helps to track milestones. I pay for the membership and take my basal body temperature (BBT) every morning.
What supplements are you taking to help balance your hormones / cycle?
I’ve done a ton of research and based on my doctor’s recommendations, I have been taking the following. Please note that this is what works for me and came recommended and may not work for you. Just be sure to do your research! Supplements: Prenatal, DHEA, Vitex, Maca, Gentian and Skullcap. Not a supplement, but I’ve also done some acupuncture and doing what I can to relieve stress. Stress is a HUGE part of this and can mess up everything.
I’m in the same boat. What are some tips you can share?
The biggest tip I can share is to do your research and seek help. Another one for me was to really focus on monitoring my stress and anxiety about all of this. It has a SIGNIFICANT impact on your body and keeping it regulated is key. As silly as it sounds, Alex and Kolby of Haven Chicago (my naturopaths) recommended that I start imagining myself having a period and wear red underwear. It sounds so ridiculous, but I listened and it has really helped my cycle come back and keep the stress surrounding this whole journey at bay.
Just came off in July and I’m still not regular! How long did it take you?
I came off in April and I’m still not regular. I’ve read it can take up to one year, so trying to be patient and give my body some more time.
Is there a way to test your hormones?
Yes, your gynecologist, naturopath or fertility doctor can check this for you.
is your main goal fertility?
Yes, ultimately.
This is a difficult topic for me but I strive to be as open as possible to share my story with others in the same boat. As always, feel free to email or direct message me any questions you have. Good luck on your journey!