How soon can I get pregnant after stopping birth control pills?

Combined birth control pills don't cause long-term infertility. For most women, ovulation returns within a few weeks to a few months after stopping, and pregnancy rates in the first year are similar to women who never used the pill. There's no need to 'wait for the pill to leave your system' before trying; you can try straight away, although some doctors suggest waiting for one natural period so dating a pregnancy is easier. The first one or two cycles after stopping can be irregular, and the withdrawal bleed in the first week isn't a true period. If your periods don't return within about three months, or stay very irregular, see a gynaecologist. Sometimes the pill was masking an underlying condition such as PCOS, thyroid problems or raised prolactin, which only shows up once you stop. Injectable contraceptives are different: fertility can take longer to return, sometimes many months. Hormonal IUDs and implants generally allow quick return of fertility after removal. In the meantime, start folic acid if you haven't already, track your cycles, and have regular intercourse every one to two days. If you're 35 or older, or have been trying for six months without success, get checked sooner.