- Rapid hormone changes in the body can produce emotional effects. Some women experience depression as their bodies adjust to the absence of synthetic hormones that were provided by the birth control pills. A significant number of women will experience emotional fragility or irritability, crying or becoming angry for no apparent reason. These issues will generally resolve themselves as the body readjusts to the ebb and flow of natural hormone cycles.
- Birth control pills generally produce a very regular menstrual cycle, keeping hormone levels much more stable and controlled than is common in one's natural cycle. Once that synthetic regulation is removed, and the natural fluctuation of hormone levels begins to reassert itself, menstrual cycles can become irregular for several months. Lighter than normal menstrual flows are common in women who take birth control pills, so removing them often produces a heavier flow or a menstrual period that lasts longer, perhaps five to seven days rather than three to four.
- Amenorrhea is the absence of menstrual periods, and can be a side effect of discontinuing any type of hormone based contraception, including birth control pills. These contraceptives work by preventing your body from producing certain hormones that are involved in the processes of ovulation and menstruation. Once the birth control pill is stopped, it can take a while for the body to reestablish normal production of these key hormones. While most women return to a normal cycle within four to six weeks, some may not begin menstruating for three to six months. Women who have not returned to a normal cycle six months after cessation of birth control pills should see a doctor to rule out other causes of amenorrhea.
- Altering one's hormone levels can cause skin issues. Many women who take the combination pill, which contains both estrogen and progestin, will find that their skin produces more oil as synthetic hormones are removed from the system. Acne breakouts on the face or back can be a temporary side effect of stopping birth control pills, a problem that often resolves itself after a few months as the body begins to regulate hormone levels on its own.
- A number of other changes may occur after birth control pills are stopped. Some women will experience changes in appetite, eating more or less than usual as hormone levels change. Many women gain weight immediately after stopping the pill, while others see some weight loss. Unwanted facial hair can trouble a small percentage of women, and hair loss can also be a problem. Increased sex drive is fairly common as natural hormone rhythms return, since decreased sex drive is a side effect of taking birth control pills for many women.
