10 hours Ago By Supriya Ramesh
Myths and misconceptions about contraception continue to cause confusion, making it harder for women to make informed decisions about their sexual and reproductive health. Clear, accurate information is key to choosing the right contraceptive method. Here, we address five common myths surrounding contraception, with insights from experts to help you separate fact from fiction.
Myth 1: Birth control causes weight gain. Weight gain is often a concern for women considering hormonal contraception. Many assume that birth control methods — whether pills, injections, or implants — inevitably lead to unwanted weight gain.
Fact: Dr Archana Dhawan Bajaj, gynaecologist, obstetrician and IVF expert at Nurture IVF Clinic, New Delhi, explains, “Research has found no consistent association between hormonal birth control and severe weight gain. Although some people experience minor fluid retention or appetite changes due to hormonal shifts, these effects are modest and temporary. Switching to a different method may resolve any bothersome symptoms.
" Myth 2: Birth control causes infertility. A persistent myth is that using contraception for a long period can permanently damage fertility. Fact: According to Dr Bajaj, “The belief that contraceptives cause fertility loss is not scientifically justified.
Hormonal contraceptives such as the pill, patch, or IUD temporarily suppress ovulation. Once you stop using them, your reproductive functions typically return to normal. While it might take a few weeks for cycles to regulate, this is not indicative of infertility.
” Myth 3: You do not need birth control while breastfeeding. Some believe that breastfeeding alone can act as an effective natural contraceptive. Fact: Dr Bajaj clarifies, “While breastfeeding can temporarily suppress ovulation, it is an unreliable contraceptive method unless practised under strict conditions (known as the Lactational Amenorrhoea Method, or LAM).
This requires exclusive breastfeeding and is typically effective only up to six months postpartum. Once supplementary feeding begins, or menstruation resumes, the risk of pregnancy increases. Non-hormonal options, like condoms, or progestin-only methods are safer alternatives for contraception during breastfeeding.
” Myth 4: All birth control methods prevent STDs. It’s a common misconception that all forms of contraception offer protection against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs). Fact: Dr Pallavi Panse, Consultant - Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Jupiter Hospital, Baner, Pune, states, “Only barrier methods, such as external (male) condoms and internal (female) condoms, provide protection against STDs.
Hormonal methods — like pills, patches and implants — and intrauterine devices (IUDs) do not protect against infections. For comprehensive protection, use condoms alongside hormonal or long-acting contraceptives.” Myth 5: Birth control pills must be taken at exactly the same time each day.
Many believe that missing the exact time by even a small margin reduces the pill’s effectiveness. Fact: Dr Panse explains, “While consistency is especially crucial for progestin-only pills (often called the ‘mini-pill’), combined oral contraceptives containing both oestrogen and progestin are slightly more forgiving. Taking them around the same time each day promotes optimal effectiveness, but a few hours' difference typically does not compromise protection.
Always refer to the specific instructions for your pill type and consult your doctor if you’re unsure.” Get Latest News Live on Times Now along with Breaking News and Top Headlines from Health and around the world..
