How Long Can Birth Control Be Taken?

There are many birth control options available. How long you can tolerate or take a birth control method or how long it lasts may be a consideration when deciding which birth control method you want to use.

Birth Control Pills

There is not a limit to how long you can take birth control pills, as long as you are healthy and have no conditions that the birth control pills would affect.

Birth Control Shot

Your doctor may recommend you discontinue use of the birth control shot after two years, depending upon your age and how strong your bones are.

Birth Control Patch

There are no time limit recommendations for the birth control patch.

IUD

An IUD (interuterine device) should be replaced or removed after a specific amount of time depending upon the type of IUD used. Some IUDs need to be replaced yearly, while others are effective for up to 12 years.

Birth Control Implant

A birth control implant should be removed after it has expired. Birth control implants last between one and three years.

References

• Mayo Clinic: How Long Can I Take Birth Control Pills?
• Planned Parenthood

Resources

• FDA, What Kind of Birth Control is Best for You?

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