For many women, starting often from late adolescence, protecting themselves from unwanted pregnancy has been an ongoing concern. It can be confusing then, when a woman stops using contraception and pregnancy does not occur soon after. Many women are surprised to learn that the effects of contraception can still be experienced even after it is no longer being used.

• Intra-Uterine Devices (IUDs): Some types of IUDs can cause pelvic inflammatory disease.
  
• Birth control pills: Ovulation may not return for up to six months after stopping the pill, but this is uncommon.
  
• Lubricants: The thick consistency of lubricating jellies can impair sperm motility, inadvertently acting as a form of contraception.