Myths related to Oral Contraceptive pills are usually attached to the very idea that these are generally hormonally active pills taken by women. These pills consist of two hormones combined together – progestogen and estrogen.
Combined Oral contraceptive pills are taken in order to suppress ovulation. Progestogen-only contraceptives suppress ovulation only to a slight extent. Both the pills consist of thick cervical mucus thus blocking the penetration of sperm.
A woman usually decides to take the pill if she is sexually active. One may also take the pill if she is certain that she is not pregnant.
Every other pill has a different usage pattern. Some are taken for 21 days straight and stopped right before 7 days of starting a new pattern.
Although the pills protect against the penetration of sperm, it, however, does not protect against sexually transmitted infections like STI, and HIV.
There are also many possible side effects of taking the pill, including –
Nausea, breast tenderness, mild headaches, weight gain or loss etc.
Myths about Contraceptive Pills –
- There is a risk of birth defects
Some people have the assumption that women who take pills will have deformed babies.
Fact – Evidence clearly shows that COCs do not cause defects and do not cause harm to the woman or the baby.
2. Contraceptive pills cause cancer
Some people have the belief that contraceptives can cause cancer such as breast and ovarian cancer.
Fact – The use of combined contraceptives has been proven scientifically to decrease the risk of cancers, especially in ovaries and endometrial.
The use of contraceptives has thus proven to protect women from two kinds of cancer – ovaries and uterus.
3. You will experience general health problems
Fact – A woman may face some side effects because of the constant use of combined oral contraceptives, including changes in bleeding patterns, headaches and nausea.
4. There is a confusion about how often one must take the pill
Fact – A woman can start using the pill if she is certain that she has no underlying disease. The woman has to be cautious that she is not pregnant. The effectiveness of the bill will depend upon the regularity in which it is taken.
5. here is a higher risk of infertility
Fact – The pill does not cause infertility. This is true even if the woman has taken the pill regardless of any age. Some of the benefits of the pill include preserving fertility by offering protection.
Also read : Transgender Identity: 6 Common Myths
