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What happens to your body when you stop taking birth control

Just like when you first started taking birth control, stopping it can cause some noticeable changes.

Jan, 2026

Your period will go back to the way it used to be

You may have more vaginal discharge than you did

That weight you may have gained will still be there

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You might be familiar with the changes that take place when you start taking birth control for the first time. These may include bloating, less bleeding and pain during your period, and more regular menstural cycles. But when you stop taking combined estrogen and progestin hormonal birth control methods like the pill, rings, and skin patches, you may notice a few changes, too. Here's what to expect.