In recent years, myths about birth control have flourished on social media, including decades-old misconceptions about the safety of hormonal contraception. Conservative and anti-abortion accounts are promoting some of these safety claims, while others come from “natural” and alternative health influencers.
Regardless of the source, the result of the myths is the same: A growing number of people are getting off birth control due to concerns about side effects. Read below to learn more about some common birth control myths and why we know it’s safe.
Why are false narratives about birth control spreading?
Hormonal birth control pills, known simply as “the pill,” are the second most common form of contraception in the United States, used by one in six women. For over six decades, this type of oral birth control has helped millions prevent pregnancies and manage a host of health conditions like irregular periods and acne.
In addition, decades of research confirm that serious side effects from hormonal birth control are rare. The most commonly reported side effects are headaches, bloating and weight gain, moodiness, period changes, and breast tenderness.
While these side effects are manageable for most, for others, the benefits don’t outweigh the negative impact on their daily lives. A 2022 survey found that a third of women not on birth control are concerned about side effects.
Health care providers often dismiss or minimize patients’ birth control side effects. When personal experiences don’t line up with what doctors and experts have told them, they may feel distrust and seek out other sources of information.
For some, social media has become such a source, providing a platform to share experiences—and a perfect environment to turn genuine concerns into fearmongering and conspiracy theories. In short, there are a lot of myths about birth control out there. Here are some facts.
Fact #1: There are many benefits—and little risk—associated with birth control
One of the most common birth control myths on social media is that the drug has few benefits and many potential risks. In reality, the opposite is true.
All drugs have some side effects, and the pill is no exception. But birth control has many life-altering benefits, including preventing pregnancy, regulating periods, reducing cramping and premenstrual symptoms, and treating conditions like endometriosis and uterine fibroids.
The risk associated with even long-term hormonal birth control use is extremely low. But every body is different, and the pill may not be the right option for you.
That decision should not be made based on broad, misleading, and often flat-out dishonest claims on social media. Your doctor can help you choose the right birth control based on an assessment of your individual needs and risk factors.
Fact #2: Birth control doesn’t cause cancer
Research into a link between hormonal birth control and cancer is conflicting but suggests that the pill decreases the risk of endometrial, ovarian, and colorectal cancer and slightly increases the risk of breast and cervical cancer. The risk is very low regardless of contraceptive use, and research indicates that the pill has an overall protective effect against cancer.
Fact #3: The pill isn’t linked to infertility
Because oral contraception prevents pregnancy, some people worry that they may be unable to get pregnant even after going off the pill. Fortunately, there is no evidence that the pill negatively affects fertility.
Birth control alters the menstrual cycle and temporarily delays fertility, which means it may take a couple of months for fertility to return to normal when stopping birth control. Studies find no link between long-term hormonal birth control and difficulty conceiving.
Fact #4: Birth control doesn’t cause PCOS—it treats it
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) is a frequently undiagnosed or misdiagnosed condition that affects the ovaries, causing hormonal irregularities. The condition can cause irregular periods, changes in hair growth, mood swings, abdominal pain, oily and acne-prone skin, and ovarian cysts.
Some people falsely claim that starting or stopping hormonal birth control causes PCOS, but there is no evidence to support this claim. Oral contraception is commonly used to treat PCOS by balancing the hormones affected by the condition. In fact, the pill is so effective at treating PCOS that it can completely mask symptoms, resulting in the condition going undiagnosed.
How can you advocate for the best birth control for you?
- Research your options. There are many hormonal and non-hormonal birth control options worth exploring. Researching options in advance can help you figure out what’s right for you.
- Ask questions. If you’re unsure about how some type of birth control works or how it might affect you, ask your health care provider.
- Know that everyone’s body is different. What works for some people may not work for you. You don’t have to stick with the first birth control option you try. There may be trial and error to find the right fit for you.
- Speak up about your concerns. You should feel comfortable with your birth control decision. If your doctor is dismissive of your concerns, you can always seek out a new provider.
This article is meant for informational purposes and does not substitute for professional medical advice or conversations with your health care provider.