The body's reaction to stopping the contraceptive pill depends on the individual and how long they have been taking it. Some women do not notice any difference at all, while others experience a range of physical reactions. The reason for stopping is usually either intolerance and therefore another contraceptive method must be found, or the desire to have a baby. It can take two weeks to three months before a woman is able to conceive after weaning.

The only guaranteed effect of stopping the pill is increased fertility and receptivity of the woman. As the effectiveness of the pill as a contraceptive depends on it being taken every day, a woman loses her contraceptive protection as soon as she stops taking the pill. This does not mean that you will necessarily get pregnant straight away, as your body first has to adjust its hormones again. However, it is theoretically possible immediately. Most women can conceive again with the next ovulation. 

The first periods after stopping the pill can be irregular until the body finds its natural menstrual cycle again. The irregularity normally evens out again within three months. 

While most women get their period again within a few weeks, it can happen that the period does not come (amenorrhoea). When the pill is discontinued, the hormone balance has to regulate itself again, i.e. the body has to start producing the hormones responsible for ovulation and periods. For some women, this adjustment phase takes several months. If there is no period after three months, a pregnancy test should be carried out. After six months without a period, you should see a gynaecologist.

Many women take the pill not only for contraception, but also to alleviate menstrual problems or acne. These benefits of the pill also cease when you stop taking it. However, the protection offered by the pill against ovarian and endometrial cancer remains for several years after stopping the pill. 

Few women suffer from nausea, breast tenderness or headaches after stopping the pill. Long-term use of a pill with a high oestrogen content can lead to weight loss, as this pill retains water in the body.