QuestionHi, I am a 28 yr. old female. My husband and I have decided to start trying to get pregnant. I have been on birth control pills for almost 11 yrs. now. I have currently been on LoOvral (mispelled) for the past 5-6 yrs. I understand that it will probably take a long time for me to conceive. Is there any amount of time that we need to wait or use protection after I come off of the birth control pills? How long can one generally expect to wait to conceive after being on birth control for so long? Lastly, is there anything that I can do or my husband do to increase the chances of conception?
Thank you very much for your time
AnswerYears ago, we used to recommend waiting 3 months after stopping birth control pills before trying to conceive. Nowadays, it is known that there is no problem in starting to try to conceive right after stopping the pills. Once you stop the pills and get a normal period, you probably will ovulate 2 weeks after your first period. You can conceive if you have sex around the time of ovulation (cycle day #14). Sometimes, it may take a few months before you conceive, but you can start right away. (Even if you were still on the pills, and became pregnant, there is no danger or risk to the baby as long as you stop taking the pills before the second trimester of pregnancy). I would suggest that you concentrate on having sex on cycle day #13, 14, 15, or 16 each month. If, after 12 months you have not conceived, consult with your doctor. Good luck.
