Any thoughts

Shortly after my boyfriend and I got serious I stopped taking my birth control. It's been about a year now since I stopped taking it. My periods started becoming normal shortly after. We don't use any form of protection what so ever, but I haven't gotten pregnant. We have the mindset if it happens then it happens we're prepared regardless. Well with it being over a year now and being as I haven't gotten pregnant I'm kind of discouraged to the point of getting back on birth control. I'm in the mindset of well if I'm not going to have a baby then why have these horrid periods. Anybody have any suggestions? I know it's my decision ultimately.. what suggestions do y'all have as far is best experience or worst side effects I want to hear it all.

Thanks in advance