Understanding How Birth Control Works

Dr. Marika Raff • February 13, 2025

As a fertility specialist, one of the most common concerns I hear from patients is whether their past or current use of birth control might affect their ability to conceive in the future. Whether you're thinking about starting a family soon or simply planning ahead for when the time is right, understanding how birth control can influence your fertility is an important step in your journey. Let’s explore the different types of birth control and how (or if) they might impact your fertility after discontinuation.

Do Different Methods of Birth Control Impact Fertility?

As a fertility specialist, one of the most common concerns I hear from patients is whether their past or current use of birth control might affect their ability to conceive in the future. Whether you're thinking about starting a family soon or simply planning ahead for when the time is right, understanding how birth control can influence your fertility is an important step in your journey. Let’s explore the different types of birth control and how (or if) they might impact your fertility after discontinuation.

Understanding How Birth Control Works

Birth control methods are designed to prevent pregnancy in different ways. Some stop ovulation, others create barriers to prevent sperm from reaching the egg, and some alter the uterine environment to prevent implantation. While these methods are highly effective in preventing pregnancy, they do not all have the same impact on fertility once discontinued.

Hormonal Birth Control: Pills, Patches, Rings, and Injections

Combination Pills, Patches, and Rings

These contraceptives use synthetic estrogen and progestin to stop ovulation. Fortunately, most individuals see their fertility return within a few weeks after stopping. Studies show that ovulation often resumes quickly, and many people conceive within a few months.

Progestin-Only Pills ("Mini Pills")

Like combination methods, progestin-only pills suppress ovulation. Many women begin ovulating again within a month of stopping.

Depo-Provera Injection

The Depo-Provera shot is a long-acting hormonal contraceptive that can delay fertility return. The hormone lingers in the system, and it can take up to 12 months or more for ovulation to resume after the last injection.

Intrauterine Devices (IUDs): Hormonal and Non-Hormonal

Hormonal IUDs (e.g., Mirena, Kyleena)

Hormonal IUDs release progestin, which thickens cervical mucus and sometimes suppresses ovulation. Once removed, the hormones leave your system quickly, and most women can conceive within a few months.

Copper IUD (e.g., Paragard)

The copper IUD is non-hormonal and prevents pregnancy by creating an environment that is toxic to sperm. Since it doesn’t alter hormones, fertility typically returns immediately upon removal.

Barrier Methods: Condoms, Diaphragms, and Spermicides

Barrier methods do not involve hormones and have no lasting impact on fertility. You can attempt conception immediately after discontinuing use.

Permanent Birth Control: Tubal Ligation

Tubal ligation (commonly referred to as "getting your tubes tied") is a permanent birth control method. Though reversal surgeries exist, success rates vary, and pregnancy may still require assisted reproductive technologies like IVF.

Emergency Contraception

Emergency contraception (such as Plan B) does not have long-term effects on fertility. Your cycle may be temporarily disrupted, but fertility is not permanently affected.

Additional Factors That Affect Fertility

  • Age – Fertility naturally declines with age.
  • Underlying conditions – PCOS, endometriosis, and thyroid disorders can impact conception.
  • Lifestyle – Smoking, weight, and overall health play key roles in fertility.

When to Seek Help

If you’ve stopped birth control and haven’t conceived after 6-12 months of trying(or sooner if over 35), consulting a fertility specialist is recommended.

Research and Resources

Whether you're transitioning off birth control or just starting your family-building journey, Caperton Fertility Institute is here to support you.

Caperton Fertility Institute – Where Science Meets Compassion.

Understanding Fibroids and Fertility

By Dr. Lee Caperton • October 7, 2025
Uterine fibroids are a common diagnosis among women of reproductive age. While many fibroids are harmless and cause no symptoms, others can interfere with fertility and pregnancy. At Caperton Fertility Institute , we help patients understand how fibroids may affect reproductive health and provide personalized treatment options to optimize fertility outcomes. What Are Uterine Fibroids? Fibroids, also known as leiomyomas , are benign (non-cancerous) growths that develop in or on the uterus. They can vary greatly in size, number, and location. Depending on where they form, fibroids are classified into several types: Submucosal Fibroids: Grow into the uterine cavity Intramural Fibroids: Develop within the uterine wall Subserosal Fibroids: Form on the outer surface of the uterus Pedunculated Fibroids: Attached by a stalk extending from the uterus How Fibroids Can Affect Fertility Not all fibroids impact fertility. However, certain types and locations are more likely to interfere with conception, implantation, or pregnancy progression. Submucosal Fibroids: These are most likely to affect fertility because they distort the uterine cavity, which can prevent implantation or increase the risk of miscarriage. Intramural Fibroids: When large, these fibroids can change the shape of the uterus and affect blood flow, potentially reducing the chances of successful embryo implantation. Tubal Blockage: Fibroids located near the fallopian tubes can obstruct sperm or egg movement, preventing fertilization. Cervical Fibroids: Although rare, fibroids near the cervix can hinder sperm entry into the uterus. Common Symptoms of Fibroids Fibroid symptoms vary widely — some people experience significant discomfort, while others have no symptoms at all. Common signs include: Heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding Pelvic pain or pressure Pain during intercourse Frequent urination or constipation Recurrent pregnancy loss or difficulty conceiving For many patients, fibroids are first discovered during a fertility evaluation or routine pelvic exam . Diagnosis and Treatment Options At Caperton Fertility Institute , we use advanced diagnostic imaging such as ultrasound and MRI to assess fibroid size, number, and location. Once diagnosed, treatment is tailored to your fertility goals and overall health. Treatment options include: Medical Management: Hormonal therapies to reduce symptoms and fibroid growth. Surgical Options: Myomectomy to remove fibroids while preserving the uterus. Minimally Invasive Procedures: Hysteroscopic or laparoscopic surgery for faster recovery and minimal scarring. Our approach is designed to preserve fertility whenever possible while alleviating symptoms and improving uterine health. Hope After a Fibroid Diagnosis A fibroid diagnosis doesn’t mean you can’t conceive. Many patients with fibroids go on to achieve healthy pregnancies — especially with proper evaluation and treatment. At Caperton Fertility Institute , our experienced fertility specialists in Albuquerque, NM , and El Paso, TX , provide compassionate, individualized care for every patient. We’ll guide you through diagnosis, treatment, and the next steps toward achieving your dream of parenthood. ✨ If you suspect fibroids may be affecting your fertility, schedule a consultation today. Let’s take the next step together toward your fertility goals.

Honoring Pregnancy & Infant Loss Awareness Month 🤍

By Dr. Marika Raff • October 7, 2025
Every loss is unique. Every story matters. Every life is remembered.
Blonde woman in red sweater smiles while using a laptop and tablet at a cafe table.

Egg Donor FAQ

By Dr. Kelly Caperton • September 19, 2025
1. What is egg donation? Egg donation is the process by which a healthy woman donates her eggs to help another individual or couple conceive a child. These eggs may be fertilized through in vitro fertilization (IVF) and implanted into a recipient’s uterus or frozen for future use. 2. Who can become an egg donor? At Caperton Fertility Institute, we welcome egg donors who meet the following criteria: Ages 19–30 Physically and emotionally healthy Non-smoker, non-drug user Regular menstrual cycles No history of genetic or reproductive disorders Willing to undergo medical and psychological screening Able to commit to the time and responsibilities of the donation process 3. Why do people need egg donors? Egg donors help individuals and couples who are unable to conceive using their own eggs due to: Advanced maternal age Genetic conditions Medical treatments like chemotherapy LGBTQ+ family-building Unexplained infertility 4. Is egg donation safe? Yes. Egg donation is a common and generally safe medical process. It involves hormone injections to stimulate the ovaries and a minor outpatient procedure to retrieve the eggs. Risks are low but can include mild discomfort, bloating, or temporary side effects from medication. Serious complications are rare. 5. Will donating affect my fertility? No, egg donation does not impact your long-term fertility. Women are born with thousands of eggs, and donation uses only a small number that would naturally be lost in a normal cycle. 6. Is egg donation painful? Most donors report mild discomfort similar to menstrual cramps. The egg retrieval procedure is done under light sedation, so you won’t feel pain during the process. Recovery typically takes 1–2 days. 7. Will I be compensated? Yes. Caperton Fertility Institute offers generous, ethically guided compensation for your time, effort, and commitment. The amount is discussed during your initial consultation and complies with all legal and medical guidelines. 8. How long is the egg donation process? The process generally takes 6–10 weeks from initial screening to egg retrieval. It includes: Application and screening Medical and psychological evaluations Legal review Hormonal stimulation (approx. 10–14 days) Egg retrieval procedure 9. Can I still work or go to school during the donation process? Yes. Most of the process can be scheduled around your routine. However, you'll need to attend several clinic appointments and take medications on a strict schedule. During the last week, you'll need to reduce physical activity. 10. Will my identity be kept confidential? Absolutely. Donor confidentiality is strictly maintained. You can choose to remain anonymous, open, or semi-open, depending on your preferences and the recipient’s needs. 11. How do I get started? To begin the egg donor application process: Visit our Portal Fill out a questionnaire Our donor coordinator will contact you for next steps 12. Can I donate more than once? Yes, eligible donors can donate up to six times, as recommended by the American Society for Reproductive Medicine (ASRM). Each cycle is spaced out for your health and safety.
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