The Top 10 Myths About Contraception

Today I am sharing a great guest post all about myths surrounding contraception. There are perhaps more myths surrounding sex and contraception than any other medical subject. People are often embarrassed to discuss these issues with medical professionals, and this can leave them vulnerable to a range of misunderstandings.

Also, the sheer number of contraceptive options now available can cause confusion. From the combined pill, the low-dose pill and the mini pill to condoms, implants, injections and more, it’s a confusing world out there. Here are 10 of the most common contraception myths.

1) You can’t conceive while breastfeeding

It’s true that breastfeeding is a good method of contraception. If you’re doing this on demand, have not had a period and your baby is under six months old, your chances of getting pregnant are below two per cent. However, when these factors no longer apply, your chances of conceiving rise.

2) It’s safer to use two condoms

It seems logical to suggest that if one condom is an effective way to prevent pregnancy, then using two at once must be even better. However, this isn’t the case. Using two creates added friction, meaning the condoms are more likely to break.

3) The withdrawal method is safe

The withdrawal method, whereby a man pulls out before he ejaculates, isn’t a reliable way to prevent pregnancy. This is because some sperm may be released before ejaculation.

4) The combined pill causes weight gain

Lots of people believe that the combined  pill causes women to put on weight. In fact, there is no evidence that these oral contraceptives cause weight gain in most users. Meanwhile, in the small proportion of cases where weight is put on, this tends to be a short-term side effect that disappears within a few months.

5) Natural family planning is simple

Natural family planning, or the ‘calendar method’, has long been used as a way of preventing unwanted pregnancies. However, this approach is far from simple. Bear in mind that women can get pregnant for up to 24 hours after they release an egg. Also, sperm can live in the fallopian tubes for up to seven days after sex.

6) Hormonal contraception affects long-term fertility

Contrary to popular belief, hormonal contraception does not affect long-term fertility.

7) It takes months to conceive after coming off the pill

On a related point, it’s often said that it takes months to conceive after coming off the pill. In actual fact, it’s possible to get pregnant straight away.

8) You can’t use condoms if you’re allergic to latex

Men who are allergic to latex needn’t avoid condoms altogether. It is now possible to get versions made from synthetic polyurethane or polyisoprene.

9) It’s impossible to get pregnant by having sex standing up

Standing up while having sex does not prevent pregnancy. The only way to stop conception is to use suitable contraceptives.

10) You should take a break from the pill every year

Modern pills are very safe to use and they do not build up in the body. This means there is no need to take regular breaks from these contraceptives.

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