You can begin to measure the day after stopping most hormonal contraception. Please note that it may take some time for your first ovulation or period to occur again, as irregular cycles are common after having used hormonal contraception.
If you get bleeding right after stopping your hormonal contraception, please log that as 'spotting' in the app as it's not the same as your period, and it should not be marked as such.
Until your first ovulation is detected, expect many red days as a Prevent user, and many brown days as a Plan user.
Please note that if you are still using a copper IUD, you may continue to ovulate. You can use Natural Cycles at the same time to detect ovulation and to know when your next period is coming (if applicable). If you would like to wait until your natural menstruation comes back and start with the measuring, then you can do so as well.
IMPORTANT: Do not measure while still using hormonal contraception, as the hormones affect your temperature and cycles. The hormones, in general, work to inhibit ovulation and also affect your body temperature, making it impossible to combine with Natural Cycles.
Below you will see some information regarding quitting a few different methods and what to expect:
After the pill (combined or mini)
Complete all active pills and start with Natural Cycles the day after stopping.
After the vaginal ring
You can start with Natural Cycles the day after removing the ring.
After hormonal IUD
You can start with Natural Cycles the day after having your IUD removed.
After the contraceptive injection
The depo shot usually is active between 8-13 weeks, depending on which injection you have had. Once the 13 weeks have passed, you can start using Natural Cycles when the effect of the injection has worn off.
After the implant
You can start with Natural Cycles the day after the implant has been removed.
After the patch
You can start using Natural Cycles the day after it has been removed.
Note: a copper IUD does not contain hormones and therefore does not inhibit ovulation. You can use Natural Cycles alongside a copper IUD to get insights on your body and menstrual cycle without having to use a barrier method on red days.