Contrary to popular belief, the birth contol pill (BCP) does not effect fertility. When the pill is discontinued, it is metabolized and out of one's system in approximately 72 hours. Then it takes a few days for the body to "kick back in" and start producing its own hormones again. One's hormones are in a "shut down" state known as hypothalamic suppression while on the pill. The suppression reverses in normal women very quickly after discontinuation of the pill and many women report getting their first period back in 4-5 weeks. If one has an irregular cycle however, it may take longer and generally a woman will revert back to cycles similar to what she had before she took the BCP. In other words, if one has a period every 2 to 3 months and not monthly, it will take that person longer to get their period back than someone with a perfect 28 day cycle. It is common practice to suggest waiting until the first period returns before trying to conceive just to be certain that there is no other problem with one's cycle or ovulation. Once normal cycles resume one can try to conceive right away. So it is not necessary to stop the pill more than one month in advance of trying to conceive as long as the woman has a history of regular menses. The amount of time it takes to conceive is the same for women who have used the BCP as those who have not. Fertility is dependent on age, pre existing factors and many other conditions. Assuming a normal couple with no known fertility issues, the average time to conception is 6 months and it is normal to take up to one year. In couples where the woman is 35 or over, it is prudent to initiate an evaluation if no pregnancy occurs by six months.

Answered by Dr. Lynn Friedman, M.D.