MYTHS & MISCONCEPTION

CORRECT INFORMATION

INJECTABLES

Injectables are dangerous because they can cause cancer.

Women using DMPA are not at increased risk of getting breast cancer and cervical cancer.

A woman will not have enough breast milk if she uses injectables during the breastfeeding stage.

Numerous studies have shown that the amount of milk is not affected among breastfeeding moms using injectable contraceptives if begun six weeks after delivery.  Injectables, similar with other progestin-only methods, do not influence the production or quality of breast milk. That is why the injectable is recommended for breastfeeding mothers needing long acting contraception.

Contraceptive pills can cause cancer.

Pill use does not lead to an increased risk of breast cancer.   The odds ratio did not increase consistently with longer periods of use or with higher doses of estrogen. 

The pill causes weight gain.

The use of pills is not associated with weight changes.

The pill will build up in your body.  Pill residues settle in the uterus so the women has to have her uterus cleaned every year in order to prevent the formation of lump.

It is not possible for pills to accumulate in the body.  Pills are swallowed and dissolved in a woman’s body just like other medicines and food.  The substance in the pill are absorbed by the digestive system and circulated throughout the body by blood.

Pills are safe and effective.  It is one of the most extensively studied medications ever used. 

Using injectables and pills will render you infertile

It is absolutely not true that intermittent or prolonged use of injectable contraceptives and contraceptive pills will make a woman infertile. Studies have shown that most women returned to their fertility within the first 12 months after their last injection.

Return to fertility, however, is faster for women taking combined oral contraceptives. The majority of women were able to conceive shortly after taking their last pill.

A woman will not have enough breast milk if she uses pills during the breastfeeding stage.

The progestin-only contraceptive pill will have no bearing on the mother’s ability to produce breast milk if begun six weeks after giving birth. It is also recommended for breast-feeding mothers preferring a pill for their contraceptive needs.

Taking the pill will increase the chances of having abnormal or deformed babies.

Countless medical studies have been conducted to probe whether abnormality or deformation in babies is connected with the use of contraceptive pills, and, so far, there has been no medical evidence to prove such.  Taking the pill inadvertently during pregnancy or shortly before pregnancy does not result in increased risk of abnormalities in babies.  Abnormalities and birth defects may be caused by hereditary, environmental, or behavioral factors (i.e. smoking, drinking, drugs, etc.).

Pills make my skin break out and also affect my other body functions.

Low dose oral contraceptive use can improve moderate acne.

Pills need not be taken daily – I should only take it when I am about to sleep with my husband.

Definitely false! Oral contraceptive pills, in order to be fully effective, must be taken daily, preferably at the same time each day or as directed in the package. The efficacy of a pill is compromised if it is not taken as prescribed. If a woman missed a scheduled pill, she can be assured of protection from unplanned pregnancy through abstinence or use of barrier methods, e.g. condoms, at least for seven days.  It is advised that she follow the suggestion indicated in the product insert on missed pills, or the advice of a health provider.

CONDOMS

Condoms reduce sensation while having sex.

Some may feel uncomfortable using condoms but many people enjoy sex as much as those who are not using them.  Further, some even enjoy more because they are free from worry about pregnancy or sexually transmitted disease.  Also, the sex act and the intense pleasure before ejaculation may last longer.

Condoms don’t work

Condoms are highly effective for STD & HIV/AIDS Prevention only IF they are used properly and consistently. Condoms must be used in every act of intercourse.

HIV can pass through condoms

 

Although this may be true for natural membrane condoms, laboratory studies show that intact latex condoms provide a continuous barrier to microorganisms, including HIV, as well as sperm.

Latex condoms provide 10,000 times more protection than not using condoms at all.

Condoms frequently break.

Condoms are manufactured under strict quality control procedures. Condom  breakage is mostly due to incorrect usage.

Talking about condoms or giving people condoms will make them promiscuous.

 

Years of solid research by the U.S. Center for Disease Control and the WHO have proved that information about condoms and even condom availability in school DO NOT INCREASE teen sexual activity.

OTHERS

Contraceptives are expensive

Many high quality contraceptives are available at very affordable prices, beginning at 25 pesos per cycle. Ask your medical provider about the most affordable methods that are available nationwide  through the TRUST Family Program.