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Q: After 22 years of oral contraceptives, what are some of the potential ramifications of discontinuing? I am 39-1/2 years old and quit one month ago.
A: First of all, the twenty two years of pill taking have given you wonderful protection against the later development of cancer of the uterus and especially cancer of the ovary. That's very important. Now that you've come off the pill, you can expect the natural changes in your cycle to occur that one might expect at the beginning of the perimenopause transition. These include shorter cycles, longer cycles, no cycles, lighter periods, heavier periods, bleeding in between, pre- or postmenstrual spotting, and symptoms like sleeplessness, night sweats, hot flashes, headaches and mood changes. This is not to paint a bleak picture. Some women will have none of these symptoms. If you find that you have them and are bothered by them, see your doctor about going back on the pill. For alot more information on the perimenopausal transition, see chapter four in my new book.
Dr. Alan Altman
Author of "Making Love the Way We Used To...Or Better."
Visit AlanAltmanMD.com
The information provided by Dr. Altman is general in nature and should not be construed as a substitute for a visit to and examination by your own personal physician.
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