There are many unfounded myths about the effectiveness and safety of birth control, and these myths may prevent some people from utilizing the birth control method that is best for them.
Numerous birth control methods, such as tablets, intrauterine devices (IUDs), condoms, and other barrier devices, are available to those who want to prevent conception.
You might have many questions after reading a myth. Below are 10 birth control myths and facts.
Myth: If your spouse withdraws before ejaculation, you won’t get pregnant.
Fact: This purported “withdrawal method” is ineffective as a form of birth control. This is due to the fact that sperm may still be present at the penis’ tip prior to ejaculation, which could produce a pregnancy.
Myth: Your first sexual encounter cannot result in pregnancy.
Fact: Regardless of whether it is your first sexual encounter, being pregnant is achievable if the egg and sperm combine.
Myth: If you have intercourse while on your period, you cannot become pregnant.
Fact: Many women may think that now is a “safe” time to have sex without running the danger of becoming pregnant, but this may not be the case. It is possible for ovulation to occur earlier than anticipated.
Additionally, if you ovulate early, it may be possible to conceive several days after unprotected sex because sperm can survive in a woman’s body for a few days.
Myth: The morning after unprotected sex is the only time emergency contraception is effective.
Fact: The morning-after pill is another name for the emergency contraceptive pill (ECP). The ECP does not have to be taken in the morning, but it should be done as soon as possible.
When used as soon as possible, both of the ECPs that last for up to 4- or 5-days following sex are more successful. There is no abortion medication in the ECP. ECP won’t work if you are already pregnant.
Myth: You cannot become pregnant while breastfeeding.
Fact: In the initial few months following childbirth, many unintended pregnancies occur.
Even though there is a drop in your fertility at this time, breastfeeding is not a reliable means of contraception. Exclusive breastfeeding (without supplementation with formula or food) can prevent you from ovulating.
Myth: IUDs, which are intrauterine devices, infect the reproductive organs (known as pelvic inflammatory disease or PID)
Fact: In the first three weeks following the placement of an IUD, there is a very low incidence of pelvic inflammatory disease (PID). IUD users then have the same chance of developing PIDs as everyone else.
PID is primarily brought on by STIs, which are sexually transmitted illnesses. Before an IUD is implanted, those who are at risk for STIs will be checked for them.
Myth: IUDs cause ectopic pregnancy
Fact: An IUD lowers the overall risk of ectopic pregnancy since it decreases the likelihood of conception overall. It is advised to screen for ectopic pregnancy in the odd circumstance where a woman becomes pregnant while taking LARC.
Myth: IUD cause infertility
Fact: In a very small percentage of cases, fertility may be impacted by a perforation, infection, or ectopic pregnancy problem. Modern IUDs, however, have not been demonstrated to cause a rise in infertility. After the IUD is removed, its effects disappear immediately.
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Myth: LARC results in irregular periods.
Fact: Different LARC subtypes can result in various menstrual alterations. Some women who use LARC enjoy the lighter, shorter periods they experience.
Even while it may be thicker in some women, some women who still have periods may prefer this. Which type of LARC you select may depend on which one you prefer.
Making a decision that best meets your needs and present situation will be made easier for you if you have accurate knowledge about the possibilities that are accessible.
Myth: Teenagers prefer pills and condoms.
Fact: According to studies, youths are more likely to use and be satisfied with LARC alternatives when they are given accurate information about them. Many adolescent people are unaware of LARC or have only heard false information about it.
