Post-birth control experience (off for 6 months so far)
I went off birth control in November, and it is now May. The reason I went off the pill was because I honestly was overly sassy and even a little arrogant, along with feelings of anxiety and depression. The brain fog was getting in the way of my University education. The first couple of months off the pill felt pretty much the same as I was when I was on the pill, except mentally better. It wasn't until the third month hit that I started breaking out again (I went on the pill for hormonal acne), having mood swings like being able to cry again, and experiencing high stress and anxiety. In addition, I lost my appetite for two months despite my stomach hurting so bad from deprivation. Now, 6 months off, my acne seems to be flaring less, I still have no period, I have fewer mood swings (but they are still there), and I have a normal appetite. However, I am now experiencing extreme bloating and constipation issues along with, I believe, a gluten intolerance. My period has not come back since coming off the pill, but I still feel like I experience cycle symptoms without the blood. Before I went on the pill, I had super irregular periods. Sometimes going 3 months without one. Then my "periods" on the pill were normal cycles.
I am just sick of this bloating and irritability. I cannot believe I am saying this, but I want my period back. I want to track my cycles and feel better about my hormone health, but none of my friends or family have experienced going off the pill, and many haven't even been on it before. Does anyone else have similar symptoms? I would never go back on the pill, but at the time, it helped me clear my skin for a couple years.
Now that the brain fog has gone away as well, I have been noticing more toxicity within my family that I didn't previously notice. I am noticing and understanding dynamics within friendships and family relationships, allowing me to have more distance and mindfulness.
Please comment if you guys have a similar experience or certain things that you can relate to when stopping birth control!