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17 March 2025

What should I do if my period hasn’t returned after stopping the birth control injection?


17 March 2025
Updates

There are many methods of birth control available today, including condoms, contraceptive implants, and IUDs. However, one of the most commonly used methods in Thailand is the contraceptive injection. The most popular type is the one that provides protection for about three months per shot.

It is important to note that this type of contraceptive injection can have side effects, particularly in terms of the return of menstruation. Compared to birth control pills or other contraceptive methods, it can take longer for periods to return after stopping the injection. The longer a person has been receiving the injections, the more time it may take for their menstrual cycle to normalize. In some cases, it can take up to nine months for menstruation to resume.

Therefore, for those who are looking for a short-term birth control method and want to conceive immediately after stopping, contraceptive injections may not be the best option. This is because it can take time for ovulation and menstruation to return to normal.

How long does it take for menstruation to return after stopping birth control?

According to available data, if you have been receiving birth control injections for a long time, it may take at least 9 months for your period to return. In some cases, it may even take over a year. Therefore, if your period does not return within 3 to 6 months after stopping the injections, you may need to consult a doctor.

The doctor will assess whether your period is delayed due to the lingering effects of the birth control or because your uterine lining has become too thin from prolonged use, preventing it from shedding as a period.

Lastly, family planning is crucial. It is important to decide what type of birth control suits you best and when you intend to conceive after stopping contraception. Some methods allow for immediate pregnancy, while others may require more time. Consulting a doctor can help determine the best approach for you.

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The Biological Clock

This tool indicates:

  • Natural conception per month if you have no fertility issues
  • IVF success rate at the same age
  • When to seek help after months of unsuccessful attempts

If you are concerned at any stage – we recommend booking a doctor appointment or a free nurse consultation. The sooner you make a plan the better your chances in the long term.

When to seek advice early

  • If you have polycystic ovaries, endometriosis, or have been through a cancer diagnosis; we recommend you get in touch quickly so we can talk you through all your options and give you the greatest possible chance of success.
  • If you’re a single woman considering motherhood in the future; it’s best to approach us early and consider egg freezing as this can be an option for you while you have a higher ovarian reserve and healthier eggs.
Set your age and the months you’ve been trying to conceive
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Your chance of having a baby per month for fertile couples
Your chance of having a baby per IVF cycle (if experiencing infertility)

Body Mass Index calculator

Being overweight or underweight can reduce fertility, so it is important to keep your body weight within the normal healthy range.

Body Mass Index (BMI) is an indication of your body weight and can be calculated by dividing weight by height. You should aim for a BMI of between 20 and 25, as this will optimise your chances of conception.

Woman’s BMI below 19

Even in these modern times, nature knows best. If a woman's BMI falls below 19, the body senses famine and ovulation is switched off to prevent the risk of having a baby with malnutrition. Excessive exercise can reduce body fat and increase muscle mass to a point where periods cease for the same reason. Risk of miscarriage is also increased in women with a low BMI.

Being underweight

If a woman's BMI falls below 19, the body senses famine and ovulation is switched off to prevent the risk of having a baby with malnutrition. Excessive exercise can reduce body fat and increase muscle mass to a point where periods cease for the same reason. Risk of miscarriage is also increased in women with a low BMI.

BMI’s greater than 30

This can reduce fertility by 50%. Pregnancy for women with a 30+ BMI is often associated with problems such as maternal diabetes, high blood pressure, big babies and increased risk of caesarean section.

Add your height and weight to calculate your BMI