Stopping the pill: This is what happens in our body when we do

The number one contraceptive has fallen into disrepute: Some preparations can trigger thromboses. 31-year-old Felicitas Rohrer has sued the pharmaceutical company Bayer: she is demanding 200,000 euros in damages because a preparation containing the active ingredient drospirenone caused a life-threatening pulmonary embolism in her. Many women are now considering stopping the pill. What are the consequences of no longer taking hormones?

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via Sabrina
07/05/2016, 16:21
Die Pille ist das Nr. 1 Verhütungsmittel in Deutschland. Doch was passiert mit dem Körper wenn abgesetzt wird?© fotolia
The pill is the No. 1 contraceptive in Germany. But what happens to the body when you stop taking it?

How contraception works

It prevents ovulation and thickens the cervical mucus so that sperm cannot penetrate. During the one-week break, the hormone level drops and bleeding starts.

After stopping the pill, the natural cycle returns

If the pill is stopped and the hormones are suddenly absent, the body restores its natural cycle. Egg follicles mature in the ovary and the uterine lining builds up. After about 14 days, ovulation occurs: a follicle in the fallopian tubes bursts and the released egg travels to the uterus. If the egg is not fertilized, the top layer of the mucous membrane peels off and menstruation begins to expel the mucous membrane and egg.

Discontinue the pill: Side effects such as mood swings

Without the pill, the cycle becomes more irregular, bleeding becomes heavier and sometimes more painful - just like before taking the pill. There may also be problems with the skin and hair: Some women complain of spots after stopping the pill or hair loss. Mood swings can also occur, with some women feeling more irritable, depressed or restless than before.

Stopping the pill: You may miss your period

You can stop taking the pill at any time. It usually takes a few weeks for the natural cycle to settle down. There may also be intermenstrual bleeding or you may miss your period, but this is no cause for concern.

The side effects of the pill disappear quickly

You can become pregnant immediately after stopping the pill. You should therefore use alternative contraception. And: Side effects of the pill also disappear very quickly when you stop taking the hormones.