Contraception, Gynecology

Fact: Birth control is about choice, not shame.

Yet, in India, myths and misinformation often prevent women from making informed decisions about their reproductive health and the best birth control options for their needs.

Maybe you’ve heard someone say that birth control causes infertility, or that taking the pill will make you gain weight. Perhaps you’ve been told that only married women should use contraception. These birth control myths stop women from taking control of their health, leading to unplanned pregnancies and unnecessary anxiety.

It’s time to set the record straight. Let’s debunk the biggest birth control myths holding women back—and empower you to choose what’s best for your body, without fear or stigma.

• Myth #1: “Birth control will make me infertile.”
• Truth: Birth control does not cause infertility.

Many women hesitate to use birth control because they fear it will affect their ability to conceive later. But the reality? Most contraceptive methods are completely reversible.

• Pills, IUDs, implants, and patches—once stopped, your body will naturally resume its cycle.
• Some women may take a few months to regulate their periods after stopping hormonal birth control, but fertility returns to normal in most cases.

Worried about your future fertility? Speak to a doctor today to find a birth control method that works for your health and long-term goals.

• Myth #2: “The pill will make me gain weight.”
• Truth: Most women do not experience significant weight gain.

Yes, some women may notice slight weight fluctuations when they start hormonal birth control, but this is usually temporary.

• Why does this happen? Some pills may cause mild water retention, which disappears within a few months.
• No, birth control doesn’t cause fat gain. Studies show no direct link between contraceptives and permanent weight gain.

If you’re concerned about changes in your body, your doctor can recommend a birth control method that suits your metabolism and lifestyle.

• Myth #3: “Only married women should use birth control.”
• Truth: Birth control is for any woman who wants to take charge of her health.

In India, the stigma around unmarried women using contraception still exists—but your reproductive health is your right, no matter your marital status.

• Whether you’re managing PCOS, regulating your period, or preventing pregnancy, you deserve access to reliable birth control options.
• Many methods, like hormonal pills and IUDs, are prescribed to help with period pain, acne, and hormonal imbalances, not just contraception.

Need confidential guidance? Get expert advice from a women’s health specialist—without judgment.

• Myth #4: “Natural methods are just as effective as medical contraception.”
• Truth: Natural methods are risky and unreliable.

Relying on “safe days,” withdrawal, or home remedies to prevent pregnancy? Here’s the harsh truth: natural methods are about as reliable as a toss of the coin

• Ovulation tracking is unpredictable—your cycle can change due to stress, illness, or hormonal shifts.
• The withdrawal method (“pulling out”) is highly unreliable, as pre-ejaculate fluid can still contain sperm.
• Herbal remedies and traditional beliefs have zero scientific backing for contraception.
• Want 99% effective protection? A doctor can help you find a reliable, safe method that fits your needs.

• Myth #5: “Using birth control for years is unsafe.”
• Truth: Long-term birth control use is safe for most women.

Many women worry that staying on the pill or using an IUD for years could harm their body. But the truth is, modern contraceptives are designed for long-term use and are even recommended for managing reproductive health conditions like PCOS and endometriosis.

• Birth control actually reduces the risk of ovarian and endometrial cancer.
• IUDs and implants can be safely used for up to 10 years with no issues.
• Regular checkups ensure your method remains the best fit for your health.

Curious about long-term contraception? Book a private consultation to explore your safest options.

References:

1. https://www.medicalnewstoday.com/articles/birth-control-myths
2. https://www.verywellhealth.com/natural-birth-control-7629255
3. https://healthy.kaiserpermanente.org/health-wellness/birth-control/myths