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.

1. Misconception: contraceptives will cause weight gain

Many think that contraceptives will always cause weight gain, but this is most often not the case. Birth control 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.

2. Misconception: birth control prevents STI’s

This is false! Oral contraceptives, surgical sterilization, and IUDs are popular contraceptives that will do nothing to prevent STI’s. The only method of birth control that could potentially help prevent STI’s is using condoms, but this is not a guarantee.

3. Myth: Taking birth control will hurt your fertility

Unless you receive permanent sterilization, your fertility will not be harmed by your birth control. Most women are able to simply cease taking their contraceptives and begin the process of having children with no issues. If you or a loved one are struggling with becoming pregnant, there is likely a different cause. Keep in mind that it may take a few cycles for your body to return to its natural hormonal state.

4. Myth: Contraceptives work immediately

Birth control methods will take at least one week to start working. If you start within five days of the start of your period, you will likely not have to wait that long. You can use other methods to help avoid pregnancy while you wait, including the barrier method (like condoms) or abstinence.

5. Misconception: contraceptives cause blood clots and strokes

Hormonal birth control does come with risks and you should be aware of them. 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 should discuss the risks with their physician. There are so many contraceptive options available that even if hormonal birth control is too risky for you, there are other products to choose from.

6. Misconception: Contraceptives cause cancer

It is true that some contraceptives (hormonal oral options) can slightly increase your risk of getting some forms of cancer, particularly breast and cervical cancers. 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 birth control use. Contraceptives can actually decrease the risk of endometrial, and ovarian cancers.

7. Myth: natural forms of birth control don’t work

This simply isn’t true, though it is admittedly more difficult 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.