Five Birth Control Myths Debunked
There are so many myths and inaccuracies when it comes to contraception. Even though various methods are available and 72 million women in the United States use birth control, rumors about their safety and effectiveness persist.
If you are hoping to delay pregnancy for a few more years or avoid it altogether, you should understand all of your choices. Unfortunately, this can be a little more than challenging when separating fact from fiction. So, let's set the record straight. Here are some common birth control myths and the truth behind them.
MYTH 1: Hormonal birth control is your only choice.
False. There are several birth control methods that protect against pregnancy without interfering with your natural hormones. Hormone-free contraception is a great option if you've experienced hormonal side effects or don't want to interfere with your body's natural rhythm.
The copper intrauterine device (IUD) is long-lasting and the most effective non-hormonal contraceptive available. You can also opt for barrier methods like condoms, diaphragms, cervical caps, or sponges that reduce your chances of pregnancy when paired with spermicides. (Many of these methods, while effective for preventing pregnancy, will not protect against the transmission of STIs alone. As I will note below, condom usage is still recommended for STI prevention.)
Fertility awareness tracking also provides another non-hormonal option. By tracking fertility signs, you can avert pregnancy by recognizing when you are most fertile and avoid having sex. However, this is not a reliable method of birth control compared against the other options available. 12 to 24 percent of women each year will become pregnant using the fertility awareness method.
MYTH 2: All birth control protects against STI
Unfortunately, this isn't the case. Birth control methods like the pill, patch or vaginal ring help prevent pregnancy, but they do not stop sexually transmitted infections (STIs) from passing between partners. Condoms, when used correctly, can help prevent the spread of some STIs while also preventing pregnancy. Choose latex or polyurethane over lambskin condoms since these contain tiny holes that may allow viruses to spread.
MYTH 3: Birth control works right away
The truth is, not all birth control is immediately effective. Frequently, the effectiveness will depend on when your contraception is taken or inserted during your menstrual cycle. So, you may need to use a backup method like a condom for a few days.
The copper IUD is effective from the moment it's inserted. If your hormonal IUD is inserted more than seven days after the start of your period, be sure to use an additional form of birth control.
When combination birth control pills containing estrogen and progesterone are taken during the first five days of your cycle, you will have immediate protection against pregnancy. But if your pills are started any other time during your cycle, your risk for pregnancy increases. Progesterone-only pills start working within 48 hours, no matter where you are in your menstrual cycle.
Using a birth control patch or vaginal ring during the first five days of your period will provide pregnancy protection right away. If you get "the shot" (Depo Provera) within the first seven days after starting your period, you reduce your chances of becoming pregnant. Any shots received at any other point during your cycle will require you to use another form of birth control for about a week to 10 days to decrease your chances of pregnancy.
MYTH 4: Condoms make sex less enjoyable
Condoms get a bad rap, but what was once only available as a thick rubbery design has evolved into creations of various textures and thicknesses. Some condoms now have internal and external lubricants and ridges for added pleasure while still providing protection.
Condoms may also be seen unfavorably because many users may not use them correctly. In a 2015 study, researchers found that more than a third of participants had never been taught to use a condom correctly. This could be a major factor for individuals believing that using one will affect their performance in the bedroom.
MYTH 5: All birth controls are 100% effective
Besides abstinence, no birth control methods are 100 percent effective in preventing pregnancy. That being said, the arm implant and IUDs are more than 99 percent effective in preventing that baby bump. Other methods like birth control pills or the sponge require you to follow detailed instructions correctly to ensure effectiveness. The truth is, even when using birth control perfectly, some methods will fail to prevent pregnancy.
There is so much information about birth control, so by understanding how they work, you can separate the truth from fiction. By speaking with your provider and knowing your options, you can make an informed decision about what is best for you and your body.
Janelle King is a Registered Nurse with a Master of Public Health. She has written articles for Sisters from AARP, The Body: The HIV/AIDS Resource, Modern Fertility, among many others, and featured in Women's Day Magazine. You can find her writing about reproductive health and wellness in her blog The Nurse Note in her spare time. Follow her on Facebook and Instagram @thenursenote.