Conceiving after using female contraception
If you have been using oral contraception, IUDs (such as Mirena) or implants (such as Implanon), it’s important to wait for one natural period before you start trying to get pregnant. A natural period is one that is not induced by the pill (or hormones from other contraceptive devices), but the one that follows. So take your last pill, wait for the next pill-induced period, then start trying after the next one, which will be your first natural period. Using contraception over any period of time will not cause infertility. However, if your periods are irregular once you stop using contraception you should see your GP.
Planning for pregnancy
As soon as you start trying for a baby, make sure you:
- Take 500ug folic acid every day
- See your GP for an antenatal screen, including blood tests to check your rubella and chicken pox status
- Have had a pap smear within the last two years
- Commit to a healthy lifestyle – quit smoking, and reduce your alcohol intake
