Myth: The only available treatment is hormonal.
The word "birth control" is frequently misunderstood to refer to Hormonal Birth control methods such as birth control tablets, patches, implants, or intrauterine hormonal devices (IUDs).
Hormonal contraception is only one choice. However, there are many others. Some people have access to various alternative methods because they either wish to skip hormonal procedures or are forced to do so. Hormonal birth control methods are not the only effective; other ways may be more effective. For instance, the copper intrauterine device (IUD) is 99% effective, contains no hormones, and is superior to the pill.
Breastfeeding, when done appropriately, maybe a contraceptive strategy that is even more effective than some hormonal approaches. After giving birth, breastfeeding mothers may choose this birth control method over hormonal ones.
Myth: Contraception leads to cancer
Another common misconception is that birth control drugs cause cancer. Breast and cervical cancer Risk may rise due to birth control.
For instance, a 2010 study discovered a slight rise in breast cancer incidence among female users of oral contraceptives. The overall danger remained minimal.
However, most of the elevated risk was found in women who took triphasic pills, which deliver three distinct hormone doses throughout a woman's cycle.
Other medicines may carry a reduced risk. The study was prospective. Therefore, it could not account for all potential risk variables.
But birth control tablets can also reduce your risk of developing other cancers.
Hormonal birth control may reduce the incidence of breast and cervical cancers, even if data generally indicates a minor rise in these conditions.
- Cancer of the uterus
- Breast cancer
- Intestinal cancer
Myth: Contraception can shield against STIs
Barrier techniques, like condoms, can lower the risk of spreading sexually transmitted diseases (STIs). There is no safe way to engage in sexual activity with someone you know who has an STI, and these approaches do not entirely prevent STIs.
For instance, Herpes may thrive on vaginal regions that condoms do not cover.
STIs cannot be prevented by any birth control method that does not put a physical barrier between people's bodies.
Even with hormonal birth control, permanent sterilization, fertility awareness, IUDs, and other precautions, STIs can still be transferred during sex.
Summary
The majority of folks can locate a reliable method of birth control. A person may need to explore a few different approaches or combinations of techniques to find a practical solution with the fewest negative impacts.
Although all drugs, including birth control, have specific hazards, the majority of myths regarding birth control's risks are unfounded.
Anyone exploring a novel method of birth control might inquire with a doctor or other reputable healthcare provider about its appropriate application.
References:
- National Library of Medicine
- National Cancer Institute
- Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
