by: Kyla Horn, AAEKY Program Manager
There are many misconceptions surrounding birth control that often lead to confusion and misinformation. In this blog post, we will debunk some of the most common misconceptions about birth control, providing accurate information to help you make informed decisions about your reproductive health.
FACT: Birth control does not affect your ability to have children in the future.
One of the most widespread misconceptions about birth control is that it causes infertility. However, this is far from the truth. Birth control methods, including the pill, patch, ring, shot, impant, and intrauterine devices (IUDs), do not affect a person’s fertility in the long term. It is possible to get pregnant soon after discontinuing the use of birth control. It's important to remember that every person's body is different, so it's always a good idea to consult with a healthcare professional before making any decisions about your reproductive health.
FACT: Most birth control methods do not cause weight gain.
Like many medications, some people report weight gain with birth control.While some people may experience slight weight fluctuations when they start using hormonal birth control methods, the majority of scientific studies have shown little to no evidence of a direct link between birth control and weight gain. The two exceptions to this are the birth control shot and birth control implant. Most people don’t gain weight because of these methods, but some might. If someone is predisposed to gaining weight with the shot, it will likely occur within the first six months. It's important to remember that many factors can contribute to weight changes, including lifestyle, age, and genetics. If you are concerned about weight gain or any other side effects, it's best to consult with your healthcare provider.
FACT: People use birth control for a number of reasons, including to prevent pregnancy.
Contrary to popular belief, birth control is not only used for pregnancy prevention. While it is true that birth control methods like the pill, patch, ring, shot, implant, IUDs, and condoms are effective in preventing pregnancy, they also offer various other health benefits. For example, hormonal birth control methods can help regulate menstrual cycles, reduce menstrual pain, and lessen the risk of certain reproductive cancers. Additionally, some birth control methods, such as hormonal IUDs, can be used to treat conditions like endometriosis and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). And condoms are important in protecting yourself from sexually transmitted infections.
FACT: Birth control is effective at preventing pregnancy when used as directed.
It's important to understand that abstinence is the only 100% effective method of preventing pregnancy. However, abstinence is not for everyone. Birth control methods such as hormonal implants and IUDs are the most effective at preventing pregnancy - more than 99% effective. Other methods, such as birth control pills and condoms, can be less effective because they require the person using them to use them correctly and consistently. For example, remembering to take the pill at the same time every day. It's essential to use birth control consistently and as instructed by your healthcare provider to maximize its effectiveness. For maximum protection against pregnancy and STIs, pair a hormonal method (like the pill or an implant) with a condom. It’s also worth considering keeping emergency contraception, also called the morning after pill or Plan B, on hand in case your birth control method fails. To learn more about the full range of birth control methods and their effectiveness check out Bedsider.org.
FACT: It is possible to get pregnant if you have sex while you’re on your period.
You’re most likely to get pregnant if you have sex around the time of ovulation, but it is possible to get pregnant at any time during your cycle.
Ovulation, when an egg is released from the ovary, usually occurs about 14 days after the start of your last period. However, ovulation can be unpredictable and some people may have spotting at the time of ovulation, which could be confused with a period. And sperm stay alive and swim for days after sex.
FACT: Wearing an extra condom is less effective.
Wearing an extra condom is actually less effective at preventing pregnancy and protecting against STIs. This is because using two condoms can cause friction between them, weakening the material and increasing the chance that they will break. If you want to increase your protection against pregnancy, instead consider using another method of birth control, like an IUD, with a condom.
Dispelling misconceptions about birth control is crucial in order to make informed decisions regarding reproductive health. Understanding the facts about birth control can help you choose the method that best suits your needs and protects your reproductive health effectively. Remember, it's always recommended to consult with your healthcare provider to get personalized advice and guidance on birth control options.