The world of contraception is vast. There are many methods to prevent unwanted pregnancies. These methods also help promote reproductive health.
However, there is also a great deal of misinformation and myths surrounding these methods. These false beliefs can negatively influence people’s decisions regarding contraception.
This article aims to explain some common myths. It provides information based on medical evidence. This helps everyone make informed choices about their sexual and reproductive health.
Myth 1: Contraception Causes Infertility
A common myth is the belief that using contraception can make a person sterile, especially when it comes to hormonal methods such as the pill or the IUD. This concern is particularly widespread among young people and those planning to have children later in life.
Fact: Most contraceptives have no permanent impact on fertility—in other words, they do not cause sterility. For example, after removing an IUD or stopping the pill, fertility typically returns to previous levels. Studies show that about 83% of people who have used hormonal contraceptives regain their ability to conceive within 12 months of discontinuation. Even long-acting hormonal methods, such as injectable contraception, do not have permanent effects.
For example, after removing an IUD or stopping the pill, fertility returns to normal. Studies show that around 83% of people who use hormonal contraceptives regain their fertility within 12 months after stopping.
Even hormonal methods like injectable contraception do not have permanent effects.
Note to the reader: Sterility and infertility are two distinct concepts. Sterility refers to the permanent inability to conceive naturally, whereas infertility refers to difficulty in carrying a pregnancy to term or achieving a viable pregnancy, even though conception is possible.
Myth 2: The Birth Control Pill Causes Cancer
It is often heard that hormonal contraceptives, especially the pill, increase the risk of cancer, particularly breast and ovarian cancer. This belief discourages some people from using this contraceptive method.
Fact: Numerous studies show that hormonal contraceptives do not significantly increase the risk of breast cancer. In fact, the combined pill can even reduce the risk of certain cancers, particularly ovarian and endometrial cancer.
Myth 3: Condoms Reduce Sexual Pleasure
Many people believe that condoms are effective against STIs and unwanted pregnancies. However, they also think that condoms reduce sensitivity and pleasure during sex.
Fact: Modern condoms are designed to be thin and comfortable, offering maximum protection without compromising sexual pleasure. Studies show that lubricants can help. They enhance sensation and reduce discomfort when using condoms.
Myth 4: Emergency Contraception Is Dangerous
The morning-after pill is often seen as a dangerous contraceptive that could have long-term effects on reproductive health or even cause birth defects in future pregnancies.
Fact: Emergency contraception is a safe and effective method for preventing unwanted pregnancy after unprotected sex. It is not intended for regular use, but it is highly effective when taken within 72 hours of intercourse. Studies show that it has no long-term effects on fertility or the health of future pregnancies.
Myth 5: The Birth Control Pill Causes Weight Gain
Weight gain is often mentioned as a side effect of the birth control pill. Many people avoid this method out of fear of significant weight gain.
Fact: Although some people report weight gain after starting the pill, research shows that it’s usually not the pill itself that’s responsible. Weight fluctuations can be caused by other factors. This includes lifestyle changes or natural hormonal fluctuations.
Myth 6: IUDs Are Not Suitable for Young Women
It is often said that intrauterine devices (IUDs), especially copper IUDs, are not appropriate for young women or those who haven’t had children yet.
Fact: This persistent myth has been debunked by multiple studies. IUDs, whether hormonal or non-hormonal, are a safe and effective option for women of all ages, including those who haven’t given birth. They are recommended by the World Health Organization (WHO) as a reliable and reversible long-term contraceptive method.
Myth 7: Sterilization Is Irreversible
Sterilization, whether male (vasectomy) or female (tubal ligation), is often seen as a permanent contraceptive method, with no possibility of reversal.
Fact: While sterilization is generally permanent, in some cases fertility can be restored through microsurgical techniques. However, these procedures do not always guarantee success, and it is important that those considering this method are certain of their choice.
Myth 8: Natural Contraception Is Unreliable
Natural contraceptive methods, such as the symptothermal method or the lactational amenorrhea method (LAM), are often considered unreliable due to the difficulty of accurately tracking the menstrual cycle.
Fact: When practiced rigorously, these methods can be very effective. For example, the symptothermal method has an effectiveness rate of up to 99% when followed strictly. However, these methods require a good knowledge of the menstrual cycle and daily monitoring of fertility signs.
Conclusion
Myths surrounding contraception can lead to misunderstandings and poorly informed decisions. It is essential to have access to reliable, evidence-based information in order to make informed choices. For more information, you can consult Myka the Chatbot.
With this in mind, it’s equally important to understand the possible side effects of different contraceptive methods. Here, we clarify these misconceptions while exploring common and rare side effects to help everyone better understand these methods and make informed choices.