By Remy F.
There is a lot of misinformation about birth control out there. I'm going to address a few of the most common birth control rumors floating around and set the record straight for each one.
Myth #1: Hormonal birth control methods, especially ‘the Pill" make you gain weight.
Most women do not gain or lose weight as a result of birth control. A woman’s weight may fluctuate naturally due to life circumstances or age, but studies have found that birth control is not responsible for weight fluctuations.
Myth #2: If you are on the Pill or use other methods of birth control for a long time then it will be harder to get pregnant later.
Taking the Pill or using another method of birth control does not cause infertility nor does it create pregnancy complications. A woman can become pregnant after using hormonal methods (such as the Pill) as quicly as women who stop using nonhormal methods such as condoms, IUDs, or the implant. What can affect fertiltiy is repeatedly getting an STD such as Chlamydia or Gonorrhea. So be sure to protect yourself against both unplanned pregnancy AND STDs during sex by using both condoms and another method of birth control.
Myth #3: You shouldn’t get an IUD unless you have already had children.
IUDs are for any woman who wants a highly effective, long-term form of birth control. Studies find that there is no increased risk of infertility in women who have used IUDs, including young women and women with no children. IUDs do not cause miscarriages after they have been removed and if correct insertion technique is used, an IUD will not cause difficulty in future pregnancies. In the unlikely circumstance that woman with an IUD becomes pregnant it is important to consult with a doctor about the risks of leaving an IUD inserted during pregnancy and discuss the options available to keep or remove the IUD.
Myth #4: The Pill is always effective immediately after you begin taking it.
When women first begin the pill, they should combine the pill with another method of birth control such as a condom for 7-14 days to ensure protection from pregnancy if they haven't started taking the pill on the first day of their period. The pill should be taken every day at the same time to maximize effectiveness, reduce side effects, and help women to remember to take it consistently!
Myth #5: Sometimes your body needs a break from birth control.
The only reason to take a break from your contraceptives is if you’re hoping to get pregnant. Other than that, you can stay on your chosen method of birth control for as long as you want. The only exception is Depo-Provera, the birth control shot. It has been linked to greater potential for bone mineral loss so the FDA advises women only to take it continuously for two years.
Myth #6: All birth control methods protect against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs).
The only method of birth control that protects against STDs is the condom. The best way to prevent an STD is for you and your partner G – Y – T Get Yourself Tested before you have sex and to use a condom each and every time you have sex. Click here to find a clinic near you where you can get a condiential STD test!
For a side-by-side comparison of different birth control methods visit http://bedsider.org/methods; it includes pictures and descriptions.