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Answer:Some doctors recommend that you wait at least one menstrual cycle before trying to become pregnant to allow the birth control drugs to entirely leave your system and your body to resume normal ovulation (usually within one to three months). If you are waiting out this time before trying to conceive, use a barrier method of birth control (such as a condom or diaphragm). A waiting period also allows you to make sure your health habits are optimal for pregnancy (not smoking, avoiding alcohol, and getting folic acid in your diet).

If you were ovulating irregularly before you started the pill, it may take you longer to conceive than a woman who ovulates regularly. The time it takes to become pregnant varies from woman to woman. Ninety percent of women will become pregnant within one year. If you do not become pregnant within one year, you may consider seeing a fertility specialist.

If you were using the Depo-Provera® shot (medroxyprogesterone acetate injectable suspension, USP), getting pregnant will take a little longer. The drug remains in your body for three months since your last shot. If you just recently received this injection, you will not be able to become pregnant for at least three months. Overall, it may take up to 18 months for some women to become pregnant after stopping the Depo-Provera shot.

Remember that most home pregnancy tests should be used seven to 14 days after your last missed period. If you try to test too early, the hormone that these tests detect may not have accumulated in your urine. This will result in a false negative result.

Learn more about birth control options for women in the Walgreens.com Health Library.

View Walgreens.com intimacy and sexual wellness products, including over-the-counter contraceptives and pregnancy tests.

View the Walgreens.com Ask a Pharmacist Archives for a list of all commonly asked questions.

DISCLAIMER: The information provided is not a substitute for medical advice. Consult your physician for diagnosis and treatment of your medical condition. Advances in medicine may cause this information to become outdated, invalid or subject to debate. Professional opinions and interpretations of the scientific literature may vary. Walgreens' terms of use and general warranty disclaimer apply to all services provided. If you are in need of immediate medical attention, contact your physician, poison control center or emergency medical professional. If you need to speak with a pharmacist for non-emergency matters, contact your local Walgreens pharmacist or call a Walgreens.com pharmacist toll-free at 1-877-250-5823.