Birth control pills

Hi All

I have been using the birth control pills for the last 3 years. Now i want a baby. Me and my partner have talked bout it and i want to get pregnant. But i am not sure on how should i behave with the pills.
Should i stop using them immediately and wait for my periods to come before i plan the pregnancy? Should we use contraceptives while having contact?
How long do i have to stop the use of pills before we try.
Also i was sacred that the long usage of these pills should not harm my body and have any side affects on the baby? Does anyone know of that. Has anyone read anything like ghat or experienced the same before. Let me know your thoughts and views and i would be ready to follow the same. I have consulted my doctor and he has asked me to wait after popping the last pill.