Questions in the Maternal and Child Health Forum have been answered by doctors from Henry Ford Health System.

Question Title: Length of Birth control pill usage

Forum: The Maternal and Child Health Forum
Topic: Pregnancy - Normal


I am 28 years old and have been
using birth control pills for ten
years. Will the length of usage
affect my ability to conceive?

I have read numerous pieces of
literature regarding the time
during
each cycle that is best to try to
conceive. When exactly is that
time?


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The most recent literature shows various lengths of time for return to fertility after prolonged use of the pill. The best recommendation is to avoid pregnancy for a minimum of three months following discontinuing the pill. After that time period the optimal time for conception is 72 hours prior to and after ovulation. There are various ways to determine your "fertile" time. Some include the use of basal body temperatures, checking vaginal mucous, and generally 14 days after the start of your menstrual period (based on a 28 day cycle).

This forum is for informational purposes only. Specific medical diagnosis and advice must be obtained from your primary physician.

HFHS>R>N>_SMK
*KEYWORD: ovulation, fertility, oral contraceptives




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