When researching birth control, it is important that you use reliable sources for information. Every pill has a different effect on every female body, and so it is important for you and your doctor to work together to determine the right pill for you. Our Partner Doctors are always on hand, and together we are passionate about finding the right birth control solution for you and your body.
Here are some of the common myths about the contraceptive pill debunked.
# “The pill will make you fat” 🐷
While a few women may find they gain weight on the contraceptive pill, this is usually due to increased appetite, lack of exercise or bloating caused by fluid retention. If this is the case, you can speak to your doctor to try an alternative brand. In fact many women find they lose weight on the pill, however research continues to find no connection between long-term weight gain and the contraceptive pill. ([1](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12804496/))
# “All birth control pills are the same” 🥱
There are many brands and varieties of contraceptive pills, all with different levels of hormones and dosage. It can take a couple of tries to find the right brand for you, and with our service you can work with our Partner Doctors to find the right one for you and your body.
# “You can’t take the pill if you smoke” 🚬
Women who smoke do have higher risks than those who don’t on certain contraceptive pills. However low-dose combination pills and progesterone-only pills are suitable for women who smoke. It is important you are honest and open with your doctor to ensure they can safely prescribe the correct contraceptive pill for you.
# “The pill causes cancer” 🏥
It has generally been accepted by scientific and medical researchers that the contraceptive pill has very little relation to some types of cancer, and therefore the risks are very small. In fact, there is also research showing that the contraceptive pill actually reduces your chances for certain cancers, including ovarian and bowel cancers. ([2](https://www.verywellhealth.com/top-pill-myths-906689#citation-1))
# “You need to take breaks from the pill” 💊
There is no reason for a healthy woman to take breaks from the pill. ([3](https://www.sexualwellbeing.ie/sexual-health/contraception/your-choices/myths-about-the-pill/)) In fact, continuously taking the pill can reduce the risk of pregnancy and minimse any side effects from restarting the pill.
# “Skipping your period on the pill is bad for you” 🙅♀️
Taking 21-day packs back-to-back is a safe way to prevent menstruation if you have painful periods or side effects such as anaemia. This is because the withdrawal bleed you get in the 7-day break isn’t technically a period as it is artificially induced. This withdrawal bleeding is caused by the decline of reproductive hormones in your body during the days when your body is not receiving any artificial hormones from your pill.
If you do choose to skip your “period” continually, the only side effect you need to consider is breakthrough bleeding. This can be anywhere between minor spotting and something that resembles a regular period. Additionally, contrary to popular belief, your uterus doesn’t get “backed up” or “blocked up” from skipping your withdrawal bleed.
# “The pill with make you infertile” 👶
There is no scientific evidence that the pill affects fertility after you stop taking it. In fact, fertility can return immediately, which is why it is important not to miss a pill if you want to avoid pregnancy.
# “The pill will give you spots” 🧴
Every woman’s body reacts differently to different contraceptive pills, but it is usually found that the pill can actually reduce spots, and improve the quality of your skin and it is often given as a treatment for acne. However, some progesterone-only pills can affect your skin badly, if you are having this problem speak to your doctor to find an alternative solution.
# “The pill is just for contraception” 👍
The pill has many uses beyond contraception. Health benefits of taking the pill include:
* Acne treatment;
* Reducing heavy periods;
* Minimising mood swings related to the menstrual cycle;
* Minimising menstrual cramps and ovulation pains;
* Regularising your cycle;
* Minimising excess facial and body hair;
* Protection against menstrual migraines;
* Minimising risk of ovarian cysts and cancer, osteoporosis and Pelvic inflammatory disease.
# “The pill will make you moody” 😕
The contraceptive pill contains synthetic hormones, which can cause mild mood swings when you start the pill. However, most women find that in the long term taking the pill does not cause any changes to their mood. The pill can actually be used as a treatment for women struggling with mood swings as a result of their menstrual cycle.
