It’s so exciting to get the chance to plan to have a baby, right? That little pill (or patch, or ring, or whatever birth control method you’ve been using) has served its purpose, and now it’s time to say goodbye. But before you toss your birth control in the trash and start planning your baby names list, there are a few things you should know to make this transition as smooth as possible.
So, when it comes to preconception planning, there isn’t too much, but again, the whole point is to make this as smooth as possible. With that all said, here’s exactly what you need to know when it comes to stopping birth control and trying for a baby.
Start Taking Folate
One of the most important things you should do when you’re planning to conceive is to start taking a folate (or folic acid) supplement. Generally speaking, folate is a B vitamin that’s crucial for the early development of your baby’s brain and spine. Ideally, you should start taking folate at least a month before you stop birth control. This gives your body time to build up the necessary levels to support a healthy pregnancy.
What to Expect When You Stop Birth Control
Here’s the deal: everyone’s body reacts differently when they stop birth control, so don’t be surprised if your experience isn’t exactly like your best friend’s. Some women find that their cycles return to normal almost immediately, while others might need a few months to settle back into their natural rhythm.
If you’ve been on hormonal birth control for a while, your body may need some time to adjust. You might notice changes in your period, including irregular cycles or changes in flow. This is totally normal, but if things don’t start to regulate after a few months, it might be a good idea to check in with your healthcare provider.
Tracking Your Cycle
Usually, you need to talk to your GP before you quit birth control, so once you stop birth control, tracking your cycle can be super helpful. Understanding your cycle will give you a better idea of when you’re ovulating—aka, your prime baby-making time.
There are tons of apps out there that make tracking easy, such as the Flo app. So, you’re going to want to look for one that lets you log symptoms, track ovulation, and predict your fertile window.
Patience is a Virtue
Before you start questioning your fertility or looking into the IVF process thinking there’s something wrong with you, it’s so important to have an understanding that pregnancy just takes time. Even if your cycles are regular and you’re doing everything “right,” it can still take several months to conceive.
Most couples conceive within a year of trying, so don’t get discouraged if it doesn’t happen right away. If you’re over 35 or have been trying for more than a year (or six months if you’re over 35), it might be time to chat with your doctor to see if there’s anything else going on.
Focus on Your Health
So, this last bit is general advice, but this is helpful advice too! Now that you’re in baby-prep mode, it’s a great time to focus on your overall health. Eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise, and reducing stress can all help prepare your body for pregnancy.
It might also be a good idea to cut back on alcohol and caffeine and quit smoking if you haven’t already. Overall, taking care of yourself isn’t just good for your future baby—it’s good for you, too!
