5 myths about birth control

The fundamental purpose of any birth control is to stop the sperm and egg from fusing to create a foetus (baby). 

That’s it. That’s the job of any birth control. 

The truth is, though, that as it is a form of medication, almost every birth control can trigger side-effects. Let’s take a look at some common myths (and facts) about birth control. 

Myth: I must take the Pill

Fact: Birth control comes in various formats, including a pill or device. There are many types of birth control; you could take an oral contraceptive, a contraceptive patch, contraceptive implant or a long-term method like an implant or IUD. 

Myth: I will definitely put on weight from birth control

Fact: Remember, everyone’s body is different, which means a possible reaction (or not) to birth control. Birth control may work seamlessly for your sister or a friend, but trigger weight gain for you or vice versa. According to the Marie Stopes Clinic, “Hormonal methods can cause increased appetite, which is easily regulated with diet and exercise. If weight gain is a central concern, you may choose to opt for a method that slowly releases a low dose of hormones over time (like an implant) or one that doesn’t contain any hormones at all (like a copper IUD or “loop”).”

Myth: I can just use the morning-after pill every time I have sex

Fact: The morning-after pill wasn’t designed to be used as “regular” birth control. It is possible to use it as many times as needed but it’s not a long-term solution, and neither does it offer any protection against HIV and sexually transmitted diseases.

Myth: No one method is more effective than the others

Fact: Actually, while all modern contraceptives are effective, some do have a higher rate of success than others. For instance, “Methods that involve placement by a healthcare provider such as an implant, an IUD or an IUS are most effective because they leave less room for human error,” says Marie Stopes Clinic. Forgetting to take your pill, as an example, reduces the effectiveness of contraception.

Myth: Birth control can prevent sexually transmitted infections

Fact: Condoms are cheap and effective in helping to minimise your risk of contracting a sexually transmitted infection (STI). Still, birth control, no matter the type, doesn’t provide 100% protection in avoiding STIs. If someone has an infection and you have sex with them, even with a condom and birth control, there’s still no guarantee you won’t contract their infection. Any birth control method that does not create a barrier between people’s bodies cannot prevent STIs. Remember, safe sex is always your responsibility.

Good to know

Speak with your doctor or gynaecologist before choosing your preferred method of birth control. You want to be assured that the type of birth control suits your lifestyle and specific health conditions. This is also the time to ask your doctor as many questions as possible about side-effects.

Disclaimer

This article is for informational purposes only. Always check with your doctor or medical practitioner about any health concerns, before embarking on any fitness or nutrition programme, and usage of any medication.