There are a lot of options out there for birth control and a lot of misconceptions, many of which are outright false. It is important to know the facts, especially when it comes to your health! Here are some of the most common myths and misconceptions about contraception that you should know.

It is important to know the facts, especially when it comes to your health! Misunderstandings or misinformation about contraception can lead to confusion and, in some cases, impact your health. That’s why we’re breaking down some of the most common myths and misconceptions about contraception, giving you the accurate information you need to take control of your reproductive health.

1. Misconception: Birth control will cause weight gain

Many think that birth control will always cause weight gain, but this is most often not the case. Contraceptives may increase hunger, which can lead to weight gain when not eating properly. For some, gaining a few pounds may be the only side effect of their chosen birth control method. Others may experience multiple symptoms but never gain weight. Typically, any weight gained is not over a few pounds.

Different types of birth control may affect individuals differently when it comes to weight:

• Hormonal methods such as the pill, the patch, or the ring, can sometimes lead to temporary water retention, which may feel like weight gain.
• The hormone progestin, found in certain contraceptives like the arm implant or the hormonal IUD, has been associated with an increased appetite in some users, which could result in weight changes if caloric intake rises.
• The Depo-Provera shot has been linked to higher instances of noticeable weight gain compared to other methods.

It’s important to remember that each person’s body reacts uniquely to contraceptives, so not everyone will experience these effects. Understanding how your body responds and consulting with a healthcare provider can help you choose the best method for your needs.

2. Misconception: Birth control prevents STI’s

This is incorrect! While oral contraceptives, surgical sterilization, and IUD’s are effective methods of preventing pregnancy, they offer no protection against STI’s. The only form of birth control that may reduce the risk of STI’s is the use of condoms, though even they do not provide complete protection. It is important to use barrier methods, like condoms, in addition to hormonal birth control to ensure protection against both unplanned pregnancies and STI’s.

3. Misconception: Birth control causes STI’s

This is also incorrect! The statistics show that users of birth control may test positive more often for sexually transmitted infections. However, this is a result of being more sexually active while on birth control, rather than the birth control itself.

4. Myth: Taking birth control will hurt your fertility

Contraceptives do not affect your long-term fertility unless you undergo permanent sterilization. Most women can stop using contraceptives and begin trying to conceive without any complications. If you or someone you know is having difficulty getting pregnant after discontinuing birth control, the cause is likely unrelated. Remember, it may take a few menstrual cycles for your body to adjust and return to its natural hormonal balance.

5. Myth: Contraceptives work immediately

Birth control methods typically take at least one week to become effective. However, if you begin using them within five days of the start of your period, they may provide protection much sooner. While waiting for your birth control to take full effect, consider using additional precautions such as barrier methods (like condoms) or abstaining from sexual activity to prevent pregnancy for at least two weeks. Always read the instructions for your specific method and consult with a healthcare provider if you have any questions or concerns.

• Birth Control Pills – These typically take 7 days to become effective if started outside the first 5 days of your menstrual cycle. If taken within the first 5 days, they may work immediately.
• Contraceptive Patch – This method becomes effective after 7 days if applied at any time during the cycle. If started during the first 5 days of your period, it provides immediate protection.
• Vaginal Ring (e.g., NuvaRing) – This takes 7 days to work if inserted outside the first 5 days of your cycle. Provides immediate protection if used within the first 5 days of menstruation.
• Copper IUD (e.g., Paragard) – Some methods, like the copper IUD, work immediately after insertion, regardless of when in the cycle they are placed.
• Hormonal IUD (e.g., Mirena, Skyla, Kyleena, Liletta) – These are effective immediately when inserted within 7 days of your menstrual cycle. If inserted at any other time, they take 7 days to become effective.
• Birth Control Shot (e.g., Depo-Provera) – This method provides immediate protection if given within the first 5 days of a menstrual period. Otherwise, it takes 7 days to be effective.

6. Misconception: Birth control causes blood clots and strokes

Hormonal birth control does come with risks and you should be aware of them. Estradiol-containing birth control does slightly increase the risk for blood clots overall. However, they do not cause issues for ALL women. For example, women who are 35 and older and who smoke are at increased risk of blood clots or stroke. Also, those who have certain types of migraines or are obese or have a history of blood clots should discuss the risks with their physician. There are so many contraceptive options available that there will likely still be something that will work for you.

7. Misconception: Contraceptives cause cancer

There has been some concern in the media about hormonal contraceptives increasing the risk of breast cancer and/or cervical cancer. No studies have shown a proven link to an increased risk of breast cancer and therefore birth control is still recommended for pregnancy prevention. Cervical cancer is transmitted sexually by the HPV virus. Multiple partners over a lifetime can increase the risk of cervical cancer, not contraceptive use. Birth control can actually decrease the risk of endometrial and ovarian cancers.

8. Myth: Natural forms of birth control don’t work

This simply isn’t true, though it can be more difficult for some women to use this method of birth control. Fertility awareness is one of the most effective forms of natural birth control as long as it is done correctly. Many women are able to track their cycles so closely that they know when they will ovulate and when they will have a period. This can be done by monitoring things like body temperature and cervical mucus, along with tracking apps or calendars.

Want to know more about birth control?

If you need more information about birth control or want to switch contraceptives, the team at WHA can help! We provide comprehensive women’s healthcare services to ensure every patient is healthy and happy. You can reach us at (806) 355-6330 to schedule an appointment.