Birth control is a topic that often stirs the pot in conversations. I want to start by saying that I’m here to provide information, resources, and tools—not to shame anyone for their choices around birth control or what feels right for their body.
That said, I’ve worked with so many clients who have a history of hormonal birth control use and are now dealing with hormone imbalances, gut issues, or fertility struggles. In fact, I’ve probably worked with only a handful of women who have never used birth control at some point in their lives.
Why does that matter? Because hormonal birth control has a significant impact on several key systems in the body:
- Impacts the gut microbiome
- Impacts liver and bile health (alters liver enzymes, bile production, and detox pathways)
- Depletes key micronutrients: B vitamins, zinc, magnesium, selenium
- “Turns off” the brain-to-ovary connection, which is what stops ovulation
My personal opinion—based on what I see daily in practice—is that we can’t shut down and alter major systems of the body for years and not expect something to feel off.
Life After Birth Control
Deciding to come off hormonal birth control is a big step—especially if you’re planning to grow your family or want to balance your hormones naturally.
Whether you’ve been on the pill, patch, IUD, or another form of hormonal contraception, your body needs time to recalibrate as it transitions back to its natural rhythm. During this time, many women experience Post-Birth Control Syndrome (PBCS), which can include:
- Irregular periods
- Acne
- Mood swings
- Digestive issues
A Note If You’re Planning to Conceive
If pregnancy is on your radar, it’s often helpful to come off birth control sooner rather than later. Many women are surprised to learn that it can take several months for cycles to regulate after stopping hormonal contraceptives.
Giving your body time to re-establish its natural rhythm can make the transition into TTC much smoother.
There are also benefits to being off birth control—whether or not pregnancy is your goal. Without synthetic hormones, your body can restore its own hormone production, often leading to improved mood, clearer skin, enhanced libido, and better energy. Getting back in tune with your natural cycle also empowers you to understand your fertility more deeply.
5 Ways to Balance Your Hormones After Birth Control
1. Nourish Your Body with Nutrient-Dense Foods
Hormonal birth control depletes nutrients essential for hormone production, including B vitamins, zinc, magnesium, and selenium.
Focus on whole, nutrient-dense foods. You can also check out THIS post for hormone- and fertility-supportive food ideas.
- Healthy fats: Wild-caught fish, chia seeds, flaxseeds, walnuts
- Leafy greens & cruciferous veggies: Spinach, kale, broccoli, Brussels sprouts to support hormone detoxification
- Protein: Eggs, grass-fed beef, poultry to provide amino acids for hormone production
2. Support Liver Detoxification
Your liver plays a key role in metabolizing hormones, and it often needs extra support after birth control use.
- Bitter foods: Dandelion greens, arugula, artichokes
- Hydration: Drink plenty of mineral-rich water
- Liver-supportive herbs: Milk thistle, dandelion root, turmeric
- Castor oil packs
3. Prioritize Gut Health
Hormonal contraceptives can disrupt the gut microbiome, which directly affects hormone balance and estrogen detoxification.
- Probiotics: Yogurt, kefir, sauerkraut, kombucha (or targeted supplements)
- Fiber: From fruits, vegetables, and whole foods to support estrogen elimination and feed beneficial bacteria
- Collagen & bone broth: Help soothe gut inflammation and support digestion
4. Consider Herbal Support
(Always discuss with your doctor or medical professional before starting herbs.)
- Vitex (Chasteberry): Supports progesterone production and cycle regulation
- Maca root: Helps balance hormones, energy, and mood
- Ashwagandha: Supports adrenal health and lowers cortisol during times of stress
5. Manage Stress & Prioritize Sleep
Stress is one of the biggest disruptors of hormone balance—especially during the post-birth-control transition.
- Stress reduction: Yoga, meditation, journaling, walking in nature
- Sleep: Aim for 7–9 hours of quality sleep per night to support hormone regulation
The Takeaway
Balancing your hormones after birth control can feel overwhelming, but with an intentional, supportive approach, your body can find its rhythm again—I’ve seen it firsthand.
If you’re experiencing ongoing symptoms or want personalized guidance, consider 1:1 work. I’d love to help you navigate this transition and support your hormone health.
- Kylie
