Contraception is a subject that is highly controversial and surrounded by many myths. In order to better understand its effects and dispel ambiguities, it is worth taking a look at what exactly contraception is. Its history dates back to the 1960s, and it played a key role in the sexual revolution of the 1970s.
Contemporary methods of contraception
Modern methods of contraception fall into several main categories, such as hormonal, mechanical and natural methods of preventing pregnancy. Hormonal contraception, which includes the popular contraceptive pill, not only protects against pregnancy, but can also help treat conditions such as endometriosis and irregular menstrual cycles.
However, as is often the case with controversial topics, contraception has been riddled with numerous myths. Below you will find a discussion of some of them:
Facts and myths about contraception
1. Contraceptive pills reduce menstrual pain - TRUE
The use of hormonal contraception can alleviate menstrual symptoms such as pain and excessive bleeding. Many women use these contraceptives not only to prevent pregnancy, but also to regulate their cycle and relieve menstrual discomfort.
2. No smoking while on hormonal contraception - TRUE
The combination of smoking and hormonal contraception can increase the risk of serious health problems, such as blood clots. Therefore, women using these measures should avoid smoking.
3. Contraception protects against sexually transmitted diseases - MIT
It is a myth. Hormonal contraception only prevents pregnancy, but does not protect against sexually transmitted diseases such as HIV, chlamydia or HPV. Additional forms of protection, such as condoms, are needed to protect against infections.
4. birth control pills give 100% protection against pregnancy - MIT
Although hormonal contraception is very effective, no method provides 100% protection. Even the pill, taken regularly, can sometimes fail. The only fully reliable way to prevent pregnancy is sexual abstinence.
5. hormonal contraception causes weight gain - MIT
Studies do not confirm a direct link between the use of hormonal contraception and weight gain. In some cases there may be a slight change in weight, but this is most often due to other factors such as diet or lifestyle.
6. Hormonal contraception leads to infertility - MIT
This is one of the most commonly repeated myths, which is completely untrue. Once hormonal contraception is discontinued, most women quickly return to full fertility. These contraceptives have no negative impact on future ability to get pregnant.
More information can be obtained by using the medical e-consultation available at any time.
