What Is Post-Birth Control Syndrome?

Post-birth control syndrome is not a formal medical diagnosis.

Verywell / Jessica Olah

Hormonal contraceptives have human-madeprogesteroneand/orestrogen(synthetic hormones) in them to prevent pregnancy.

Pads, oil-free acne wash, and acetaminophen (What is Post-Birth Control Syndrome?)

Verywell / Jessica Olah

But with that, hormonal contraceptives also stop the bodys natural production of these hormones.

It can take some time for the body to rebalance hormone levels after someone stops taking birth control.

Why Is There Controversy?

However, it takes time for the menstrual cycle to readjust and get back on a regular schedule.

Many people use birth control for reasons other than preventing pregnancy.

For example, a person may take oral contraceptives to help with painful menstrual cramps or heavy periods.

If they stop using hormonal birth control, these symptoms are likely to become problems again.

However, this does not mean that a person is experiencing a syndrome.

It just means that the pill is no longer controlling the symptoms it was treating.

Post-pill PCOS refers to the discovery of polycystic ovary syndrome after hormonal birth control is stopped.

This is not the same as post-birth control syndrome.

For example:

If weight gain is a concern, make lifestyle choices to support your healthiest weight.

Eating a balanced, nutritious diet, and getting regular physical activity are helpful steps to take.

Always ask your healthcare provider before starting a new supplement.

However, a conventional healthcare provider can still help you with any long-term symptoms you may be experiencing.

Talk with a provider if your symptoms do not seem to be improving on their own.