Debunking 8 common birth control myths
Online videos about birth control have increasingly become popular. While this accessibility can be empowering to share your story, it also opens the door to widespread misinformation without scientific backing, influencing decisions and potentially leading to unintended consequences.
“Understanding the facts is crucial for making informed choices about reproductive health,” says Dr. Stephen H. Echsner, an OB-GYN at Advocate Health Care. “It’s important to verify any health claims with your primary care or OB-GYN provider before making changes to your health.”
Common myths about birth control include:
Myth 1: Hormonal birth control causes weight gain
Many people believe that hormonal contraceptives, such as birth control pills, lead to substantial weight gain. However, studies indicate that any weight changes are typically minimal and temporary.
“When weight gain does occur from birth control, it’s often less than five pounds within the first year and may be due to factors like fluid retention rather than fat accumulation,” Dr. Echsner explains.
Myth 2: Birth control leads to infertility
Concerns about the medication impacting long-term fertility are common. In reality, the pregnancy-preventing effects of birth control pills, IUDs and barriers are reversible when you stop using them. A 2023 review highlighted that fertility typically resumes within six to 12 months after stopping hormonal contraceptives, with some individuals conceiving even sooner.
Myth 3: The birth control shot causes hair loss
Some worry that injectable birth control leads to significant hair loss. While hair thinning can occur, it’s relatively rare.
Myth 4: Birth control pills negatively alter your mood
Some individuals actually experience mood improvements, while others may notice mood swings. More research is needed to fully understand the relationship between hormonal contraceptives and mood, but it’s clear it varies among individuals.
Myth 5: All birth control protects against sexually transmitted infections (STIs)
Only barrier methods, such as condoms, provide protection against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Hormonal birth control, such as pills, patches or IUDs, do not offer STI protection.
Myth 6: Antibiotics reduce birth control effectiveness
It’s a common belief that antibiotics interfere with hormonal contraceptives. However, most antibiotics do not affect birth control efficacy. An exception is rifampin, used to treat tuberculosis, which can decrease hormonal contraceptive effectiveness. Always consult with your health care provider when prescribed new medications.
Myth 7: Taking breaks from birth control is necessary
Some people believe that periodic breaks from birth control are beneficial. Medical experts assert that continuous use of birth control is safe for most individuals.
“There is no need to take a break unless it’s advised by a health care provider for specific health reasons,” Dr. Echsner says.
Myth 8: All birth control is immediately effective
While barrier methods work instantly, hormonal contraceptives may require time to become fully effective.
“Birth control pills may take up to seven days to provide full protection, so it’s essential to use backup protection during this initial period,” Dr. Echsner says.
Where can you find the truth?
If you need help navigating your birth control options, schedule an appointment with an OB-GYN provider.
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health enews staff is a group of experienced writers from our Advocate Health Care and Aurora Health Care sites, which also includes freelance or intern writers.
