Birth control helps people decide if and when they want to have children. However, rumours about contraception can cause fear, incorrect use, and unplanned pregnancy.
World Contraception Day (26 September) encourages people to learn the facts and make informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health. Here are 10 common myths you should stop believing.
Myth 1: Birth Control Causes Infertility
Most contraceptive methods do not cause permanent infertility. Fertility usually returns soon after stopping the pill or removing an implant or intrauterine device (IUD), also known as a loop.
It may take several months, and sometimes up to a year, for fertility to return after the contraceptive injection. However, this is usually a temporary delay, not permanent infertility.
Myth 2: You Must Take Breaks from the Pill
There is no medical reason to give your body a “rest” from the pill if the method is safe and suitable for you.
Stopping and restarting the pill without medical advice may increase your chance of falling pregnant. Your doctor should review your contraception if your health changes, especially if you develop high blood pressure or migraines, or if you smoke.
Myth 3: All Birth Control Causes Weight Gain
Not everyone gains weight while using hormonal contraception. Some people may experience bloating, increased appetite, or small weight changes, but the effects differ from person to person.
The contraceptive injection has been linked to weight gain in some users. If you notice a significant change, speak to your doctor before stopping your contraception.
Myth 4: The Loop Is Only for Women Who Have Had Children
An IUD may be suitable for women who have never been pregnant or given birth. There are two main types: the copper IUD and the hormonal IUD.
Both provide long-lasting, highly effective protection and can be removed if you want to become pregnant. A trained healthcare professional places the device inside the uterus. It cannot travel to other parts of the body.
Myth 5: Emergency Contraception Causes an Abortion
Emergency contraception prevents pregnancy; it does not end an existing pregnancy. Emergency contraceptive pills mainly work by delaying or preventing the release of an egg.
Take the pill as soon as possible after unprotected sex. Depending on the type, it may be used up to three or five days afterwards. A copper IUD fitted within five days is another highly effective emergency contraception option.
Myth 6: You Cannot Fall Pregnant While Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding does not always prevent pregnancy. It may work as contraception during the first six months only when the baby is fully or almost fully breastfed, feeds regularly during the day and night, and the mother’s periods have not returned.
Ovulation can happen before the first period, which means pregnancy is possible without warning.
Myth 7: Withdrawal Is a Reliable Method
Withdrawal (also known as “pulling out”) means removing the penis from the vagina before ejaculation. It can fail when withdrawal happens too late or semen reaches the vaginal area.
It is less reliable than methods such as the implant, injection, pill, or IUD. Withdrawal also offers no protection against HIV or other sexually transmitted infections (STIs).
Myth 8: Two Condoms Are Safer Than One
Using two external condoms together does not provide extra protection. Friction between them can cause the condoms to tear or slip.
Use one new condom every time you have sex. Never use an external and internal condom together. Check the expiry date and avoid oil-based lubricants with latex condoms because they can damage the latex.
Myth 9: All Antibiotics Stop the Pill from Working
Most commonly used antibiotics do not affect hormonal contraception. However, certain medicines used to treat conditions such as tuberculosis, HIV, or epilepsy may make some hormonal methods less effective.
Vomiting or severe diarrhoea can also stop the pill from being absorbed properly. Tell your doctor, nurse, or pharmacist about every medicine and contraceptive you use.
Myth 10: The Pill Protects against HIV and Other STIs
The pill, injection, implant, and IUD help prevent pregnancy, but they do not protect against HIV or other STIs.
Condoms can reduce the risk of both pregnancy and most STIs when used correctly every time. Using a condom together with another reliable contraceptive method is known as dual protection.
Conclusion
No single birth control method is right for everyone. Your health, medication, lifestyle, and future pregnancy plans all matter. A healthcare professional can help you understand the benefits, side effects, and possible risks.
Seek urgent medical help if you develop sudden chest pain, difficulty breathing, coughing up blood, a severe new headache, vision problems, or pain and swelling in one leg while using combined hormonal contraception.
Medical Society offers affordable healthcare and 24/7 telehealth consultations from anywhere, at any time, nationwide, making it easier to seek professional advice about birth control, side effects, and reproductive health concerns.
