When a Woman Can Stop Using Family Planning

Because bleeding does not come every month in the time before menopause, it is difficult for a woman whose bleeding seems to have stopped to know when to stop using contraception. Thus, it is recommended to use a family planning method for 12 months after last bleeding in case bleeding occurs again.

Hormonal methods affect bleeding, and so it may be difficult to know if a woman using them has reached menopause. After stopping a hormonal method, she can use a nonhormonal method. She no longer needs contraception once she has had no bleeding for 12 months in a row.

Copper-bearing IUDs can be left in place until after menopause. They should be removed within 12 months after a woman's last monthly bleeding.

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