Post-Pill Fertility: How Long Does It Take to Conceive?

Question
hi ive come off the pill in november 07,i was on it for about 14yrs.im now 35 and im worried i wont be able to have a baby.have i left it too late and if not how long should it usually take?i would be really glad of your opinion.thank you.

Answer
Hi Carole,

When going off of the pill, especially when you've been on it for awhile, it can take a few months for your body to go back to normal, by ovulating and having real periods.  Most doctors suggest you don't try to get pregnant for about 3 months after going off the pill, to make sure all of the hormones from the pill are out of your system.  From there, it can take up to a year to conceive, even if there is nothing wrong with you or your husband.  Your best bet to increase your chances is to use home ovulation predictor kits and monitor your cervical mucus.  There is a great book called Taking Charge of Your Fertility which explains this method in detail.  Good luck!