QuestionI have been taking birth control pills (ortho tri-cyclen LO) since 2002 and stopped taking them May 2006. since then I had 2 normal periods ( every 28 days ) and then one was 55 and one was 38. I am hoping to get pregnant but now my periods are all messed up (late and un predictable!) How long does it take for your body to re adjust to being off the pills? any tips for conception ?
AnswerDear Lynette,
Many women who quit taking the pill often experience some irregularity of their menstrual cycles for awhile. Each woman is different - some start having regular periods right away, while others have delayed or irregular periods for 6 months or more. The pill induces regular cycles, so any influences which may otherwise cause irregularity (weight changes, stress, diet, extreme exercise, or disease processes) are masked while on the pill. It is usually just a matter of giving your body time to regulate itself. Were you always regular before you began taking the pill?
As far as conception tips... your most fertile time is TYPICALLY the 11th-21st day of your cycle (Day 1 being the 1st day of your period). This should be when you are ovulating. For you, the window may be extended with your delayed periods. If you want to get really serious about it, I can give you more information on keeping an ovulation calendar. Otherwise, I'd just try having sex about every other day during that optimal time. Every day is ok, but every other day can give your partner's body time to build back up his sperm supply. Any position works, as long as the seminal fluid is released into the vaginal canal. However, the missionary position may work best as far as gravity goes (gets them started in the right direction from the start!) A personal trick that worked for me - placing a pillow under the hips to raise them right after sex for about 30 minutes. Obviously, getting up or sitting up right away doesn't help the swimmers out very much.
I hope I've helped you. I wish you the best of luck!
Brenda
