What Happens To Your Body When You Stop Taking The Birth Control Pill & How To Heal, A Hormone Expert Explains

So, you read last month's news about the Pill and depression, and now you're...well, depressed. I totally understand. Since the story broke that researchers confirmed a link between birth control and increased rates of depression, it seems women everywhere have decided to officially call it quits with the Pill. Maybe you've experienced the troubling side effects and this latest finding is the last straw. Whatever has led you to this point, you're done with synthetic hormones and you're ready to heal your endocrine system the natural way.

But before you quit, there's something you should know: The transition may not be easy or symptom-free. Unfortunately, while the Pill is often prescribed as a "treatment" for issues ranging from out-of-control acne to unbearable PMS, it's nothing more than a Band-Aid. And while your original symptoms may have seemed to decline when you started the Pill, they haven't really gone anywhere. Once you quit, they'll be right where you left them, waiting to make you miserable. In fact, if you've been on the Pill for years, they may even be worse. That's because birth control can totally deplete your system of crucial vitamins and nutrients, wreaking havoc on your gut and creating complete dysbiosis.

And even if you didn't have any problematic symptoms before starting the Pill, you'll want to listen up: By destroying your micronutrient stores and compromising your microbiome1, the Pill has actually set you up to start experiencing problems post-breakup.

Rather than waiting until you get off the Pill, start implementing changes right now and continue it through your transition to make the move less tumultuous. Good-quality fats and amino acids are essential—this is what hormones are made from, and eating the right amount is what's going to allow your body to start producing its own adequate amounts, without the aid of synthetics. If you eat animal protein, fish and organic poultry are great sources, as well as pasture-raised eggs, olive oil, and avocados. You may experience symptoms of estrogen dominance when you quit the Pill—leafy greens like kale, spinach, chard, and broccoli are your best tools for combatting them4.

Start a B-complex supplement right away; this will offer the biggest support in keeping your mood stable as you transition off the Pill. Buckwheat, quinoa, and oats are also great food-based sources.