So you're thinking about getting pregnant? Fine, but what about stopping contraception and how easy is it get pregnant? We answer your questions.

For many women, starting to think about babies is both scary and exciting. You may now know that want to try to for a baby in the next few months or you may be hoping to wait a little longer. But planning ahead is definitely worthwhile.

Thinking about contraception is a good starting point. Experts say that women who are taing the pill or who are having contraceptive injections need to allow enough time for their body to return back to being fertile. This means that if you are due for a repeat prescription or injection, it may be as well to talk through with the doctor or family planning advisor who can then suggest alternative means of contraception such as condoms.

Learning about your Body

As well as looking at stopping contraception, you also need time to learn about your body and that you start taking folic acid. It is a good idea for all women to get to know their body clocks as this can help them work when they are most fertile. One of the common myths is that ovulation takes place 14 days after the first day of your last period, but this will not necessarily be the case for all women as it very much depends on your cycle length.

Irregular periods

While some women's bodies work like clocks, this is not the case for everyone. Many women find that after stopping the pill or injections, their periods are irregular at first, which can come as a surprise. It can be helpful to note other changes to the body. Cervical fluid becomes much thinner and clearer just before ovulation, almost like egg white.

It is also possible to find out when you are about to ovulate be learning about your body's temperature changes. If you want to chart your temperature, take your temperature before getting out of bed in the morning. The temperature of your body drops slightly immediately before ovulation, but rises to a higher level when ovulation has taken place.

For more information on conception see page conception. If you are planning to get pregnant then start taking folic acid.

A quick guide to stopping contraception

Once you have decided to start a family, many couples are anxious to know how quickly they can stop contraception and get on with it! You can see our guide to stopping contraception Stopping Contraception although you may also want to visit your family planning clinic or doctor to find out exactly what's best for you.

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