Birth Control: Know the facts!

Contraception, also known as birth control, family planning or fertility control, is a method or device used to prevent pregnancy. There have been many myths surrounding contraception methods over the years. This unverified information leaves many people, especially youth, confused on what to do to avoid unwanted pregnancy. Read on to know what is true and what isn't so that you will be able to make the right choice when going in for contraceptives. Also, always remember to seek medical advice before taking a decision concerning your health.

Contraception myths and facts

Myth: No one uses methods other than birth control pills and condoms.

Fact: Intra uterine devices (IUDs) and the implant give teens a stress-free option that can last for years. All birth methods should be paired with a condom to protect from sexually transmitted infections (STIs).

Myth: Birth control will make me gain weight.

Fact: Side effects are different for everyone, but researchers have found no direct link between using hormonal contraceptives and gaining weight.

Myth: Birth control will affect my ability to have children in the future.

Fact: Research shows long-term birth control methods do not affect future fertility since it varies from person to person.

Myth: You can only get IUDs if you’ve already had a baby.

Fact: IUDs are safe for women with or without children alike and they are easy to maintain.

Myth: If I get an implant, everyone will be able to see it.

Fact: As long as you’re not drawing attention to it, no one will know it’s there.

Other common beliefs on contraception include; if your partner withdraws before he ejaculates you won't get pregnant, you can't get pregnant if you have sex during your period, you can't get pregnant if it's the first time you have sex, emergency contraception is only effective the morning after unprotected sex, long-term use of contraception can make it harder to get pregnant later, you can't get pregnant if you're breastfeeding,

Having sex without birth control doesn’t mean you can never get pregnant. It just means you got lucky. You should also remember that STDs are also dangerous for your overall wellbeing.

Source: Nationwide children's