Does Birth Control Cause Infertility?

Key Takeaways

• Navigating birth control options can be complex, especially when considering your future fertility. Whether you’re delaying parenthood, spacing out pregnancies, or finding the best fit for your body, it’s a decision that requires thoughtful consideration.
• Many birth control methods are reversible, meaning your fertility typically returns to normal once you stop using them. Some methods may take a few months longer to return to baseline fertility.
• If you’ve chosen permanent birth control like tubal ligation or vasectomy, assisted reproductive technologies such as In Vitro Fertilization (IVF) can still offer a path to pregnancy.
• It’s important to have an open conversation with your doctor about your needs and goals. They can help you weigh the pros and cons of different methods and find the best option for you.

Can Birth Control Now Lead to Infertility Later?

The good news is that most hormonal birth control methods and intrauterine devices (IUDs) do not impact your long-term fertility. While they temporarily prevent pregnancy, your fertility generally returns to normal after you stop using them. A 2018 study in Contraception and Reproductive Medicine revealed that no matter the duration or type of contraceptive used, your fertility remains unaffected once you stop using them. They also do not significantly delay your chances of getting pregnant.

Different Methods of Birth Control

When thinking about birth control, many people first consider “the pill,” but there are several options available. Each person is unique, so it’s important to find what works best for you. Here’s a quick look at some popular methods:

Oral Contraceptive Pills

The Journal of American Medicine highlights that oral contraceptive pills are the top choice for reversible contraception, making up almost 22% of all contraceptive methods currently in use.  They come in two types:

• Combination Pills: Contain estrogen and progestin to prevent ovulation. They can also help with acne, PMS, and heavy periods.
• Progestin-Only Pills (Mini-pills): Contain only progestin, making it difficult for sperm to reach the egg. Ideal for individuals who are unable to take estrogen or are currently breastfeeding.

Side effects can include bloating, nausea, and spotting. Consistency is key for effectiveness.

Vaginal Rings

The vaginal ring is a small, flexible ring inserted into the vagina once a month. It releases hormones to prevent ovulation and thicken cervical mucus. There are two main types:

• NuvaRing: Lasts up to 5 weeks.
• Annovera: A year-long option with 13 cycles.

Side effects may include nausea, headaches, and spotting.

Implants

The contraceptive implant is a tiny rod placed under the skin of your upper arm. It releases progestin to stop ovulation and thicken cervical mucus. It’s effective for up to five years and can be removed when you’re ready to conceive.

Common side effects include spotting, especially in the first year, but many users experience lighter or no periods.

Intrauterine Devices (IUD)

An IUD is a small, T-shaped device placed in your uterus by a healthcare provider to prevent pregnancy. There are two types: hormonal and copper.

• Hormonal IUDs (Mirena, Liletta, Kyleena, Skyla)These release progestin to stop ovulation and thicken cervical mucus, blocking sperm. They’re effective, require very little maintenance, and can make periods lighter or stop them altogether.
• Copper IUDs (Paragard)This type uses copper to create a sperm-hostile environment. It’s hormone-free but may cause heavier periods.

IUDs are long-term (3-10 years) and highly effective (less than 1% chance of pregnancy). They can be removed anytime if you want to get pregnant. Insertion can be uncomfortable, and there’s a small risk of displacement or, rarely, uterine perforation.

Injections

The birth control shot (Depo-Provera) is a hormone injection given every 3 months. It’s about 99% effective if taken on schedule.

It offers long-lasting protection without daily pills. Fertility returns after stopping, but it may take up to six months. Side effects can include irregular periods, weight gain, acne, and mood changes.

Menstrual Irregularities and Birth Control

Birth control can cause irregular periods since it affects your natural cycle. Hormonal methods might lead to spotting, missed periods, or changes in flow and duration, especially when you first start using them.Reversible vs. Permanent Birth Control.

Methods like pills, rings, implants, IUDs, and shots are reversible, typically allowing you to resume fertility after stopping. Something else to consider is that since hormonal contraceptives, like birth control pills, often reduce the pain and heaviness of periods, these benefits can sometimes hide underlying conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or endometriosis. When someone stops using these contraceptives to try and conceive, they might uncover fertility issues that were previously masked by the birth control’s effects.

On the other hand, permanent methods like tubal ligation or vasectomy (also called sterilization) may require in vitro fertilization (IVF) for pregnancy. Some surgical reversal procedures exist, but they are not always successful – and fertility may not be restored back to the same level as before.

When to Consult a Doctor

Discussing your individual needs and goals with your doctor can help you evaluate the pros and cons of various birth control methods and help you determine the best options for your unique situation.

Whether you’re beginning your family planning journey, considering birth control, or exploring fertility treatment options, our experts at Fertility Associates of Memphis are here to support you every step of the way. Schedule a personalized consultation with us, so we can discuss your questions and concerns on your path to parenthood.

This article is meant for informational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice. For personalized recommendations, please consult a fertility care expert.