Debunking 4 myths about birth control

When it comes to avoiding unwanted pregnancy, there are several birth control methods that women opt for. Some of the most common ones include the use of a condom, birth control pills, the ring, intrauterine devices (IUD), and injections that are effective for three months. When it comes to the birth control options, irrespective of how safe they are deemed to be, people continue to harbor several misconceptions about them.

These myths often interfere with women practicing safe birth control methods, which is why it becomes essential to debunk the myths and get acquainted with the reality of these birth control methods. Read on to learn about the various myths related to birth control methods.

Myth 1: The pill causes weight gain
The birth control pills are considered to be one of the safest birth control methods. However, there’s a common misconception which is often fuelled by erroneous information on the Internet, and one of these myths is that the birth control pill causes weight gain. The truth about birth control pills is that this depends entirely on the prescription. The pill contains estrogen and this can cause women to feel bloated, but this goes away on its own. Also, the progestin in the pill can increase your appetite, and this can result in weight gain if one does not adhere to a proper diet and exercise. So, the bottom line is that the pill does not cause weight gain on its own as there are a variety of factors at play here.

Myth 2: The pill can cause birth defects
Another major myth that has been doing rounds since ages is that the birth control pills are not safe and they can cause birth defects. In reality, these birth control pills are the most researched and prescribed medications and it is an extremely safe way of steering clear of unwanted pregnancy. Though there are certain health risks associated with the pill, there are no serious side-effects of the same. So, instead of self-medication, one needs to consult with their doctor who is familiar with one’s medical history.

Myth 3: Long-term use of the pill can affect fertility
There’s no evidence that long-term use of the oral contraceptives pills can lead to infertility. The main purpose of using this birth control method is to prevent unwanted pregnancy. So, once the woman stops taking the birth control pills, the fertility returns in some time. So, if the fertility is affected after one stops the pill, the underlying cause might be completely natural. This is especially true when one had irregular periods before starting the pill.

Myth 4: The pill can cause cancer
The most baseless myth that prevents women from opting for safe birth control methods is that the birth control pill can cause cancer. However, birth control pills do not cause cancer or increase the risk of developing cancer over a period of time. In fact, research has indicated that these pills play a pivotal role in protecting women against certain types of cancer. This pill reduces the risk of endometrial, ovarian, and colorectal cancers.

Though these myths are baseless and interfere with women’s choice of safe birth control methods, it is imperative to consult with a licensed physician before using any birth control method.