Family Planning Plus

It can take a few months for you to resume regular periods when you stop using a hormonal method of birth control. Most experts advise women on the birth control pill to wait at least three months after stopping the pill to attempt pregnancy.  During those three months, you could use condoms. Although the hormones are very quickly passed from your system, this time period will allow you to resume regular menstrual cycles so a pregnancy can be dated.  This also allows the uterine lining to thicken and provide a better site for the placenta to implant and grow.  

The following tips can help ensure that you have a healthy pregnancy:

• Schedule a pre-pregnancy appointment with your doctor.  Let your doctor know you are planning a pregnancy.  Your doctor will review your family health history, be sure you have the proper immunizations, review your medications, schedule any needed tests, and discuss your present health behaviors/lifestyle and recommend changes.
• Begin taking a daily multivitamin with 400 mcg of folic acid ( a B vitamin that prevents birth defects of the brain and spine).
• If you smoke, quit smoking and avoid second-hand smoke.
• Avoid alcoholic beverages.
• If you use street drugs, stop using them and check with a doctor before using prescription or over-the-counter medications (some medications are not safe to use during pregnancy).
• Eat healthfully and maintain a healthy weight.
• Be sure to get regular preventive medical care.
• Reduce the amount of stress in your life (if possible).
• Get regular exercise.  Walking, swimming, stretching, and housework are all good exercise choices before and during pregnancy.

Good luck!