Contraception is a subject that is highly controversial and surrounded by numerous myths. In order to better understand its effects and dispel ambiguities, it is worth first looking at what contraception actually is. Its origins date back to the 1960s and it played a key role in the sexual revolution of the 1970s.
Modern methods of contraception can be divided into several categories, including hormonal, mechanical and natural methods of preventing pregnancy. Hormonal contraception, or the popular contraceptive pill, not only protects against pregnancy, but can also be used to treat certain conditions, such as endometriosis or irregular menstrual cycles.
However, as is often the case with controversial topics, there are also many myths surrounding contraception. We will discuss the most common ones below:
1. Contraceptive pills reduce menstrual pain -. TRUTH
It is true that taking hormonal contraception can relieve menstrual symptoms such as pain and heavy bleeding. Many women find that these contraceptives help to regulate their cycle and alleviate period discomfort.
2. No smoking while on hormonal contraception - TRUTH
Combining hormonal contraception with smoking can increase the risk of serious health problems such as blood clots. It is therefore recommended that women taking hormonal contraceptives avoid smoking.
3. Contraception protects against sexually transmitted diseases -. MIT
It is a myth. Hormonal contraception prevents pregnancy but does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases (such as HIV, chlamydia or HPV). It is necessary to use additional forms of protection, such as condoms, to protect against infections.
4. birth control pills give 100% protection against pregnancy -. MIT
Although hormonal contraception is very effective, no method offers 100% guarantees. Even the pill, taken regularly, can sometimes fail. The only fully reliable protection against pregnancy is sexual abstinence.
5. Hormonal contraception causes weight gain - MIT
Research does not support a link between the use of hormonal contraception and weight gain. Some women may experience a slight change in weight, but this is not a common effect, and other factors such as diet or lifestyle have a greater influence.
6. Hormonal contraception leads to infertility - MIT
This is one of the most commonly repeated myths, which is untrue. Once hormonal contraception is discontinued, most women quickly return to full fertility. These measures do not adversely affect the future possibility of pregnancy.
More information can be obtained from our doctors by starting a medical e-consultation at any time.
