Birth Control Myths Debunked

When it comes to contraception and birth control, there are many myths out there. For example, you may think you can’t get pregnant if you douche after sex or if you’re breastfeeding.

And while there are a number of birth control methods that are highly effective in preventing pregnancy, it can be hard to sort through all the misinformation about how to use birth control.

So, to help us get our facts straight, Ob/Gyn Ashley Brant, DO, debunks some common birth control myths.

Myths about contraception

It can be tempting to believe a method or tip you’ve heard from your best friend or even from social media can prevent pregnancy. But a lot of times, they don’t work. Dr. Brant breaks down the contraception myths she’s heard.

Myth No. 1: I’m breastfeeding, so I can’t get pregnant

Breastfeeding may help prevent pregnancy if you’re within six months of delivery, haven’t had a menstrual cycle and your baby is only feeding on breast milk (no formula or soft food supplementation).

“All three of these criteria must be met for breastfeeding to be an effective form of contraception,” clarifies Dr. Brant. “In all other situations, ovulation can occur even when you’re breastfeeding. You should use birth control if you wish to avoid pregnancy.”

Myth No. 2: You can’t get pregnant if you don’t have an orgasm

Pregnancy occurs when sperm fertilizes an egg. While ejaculation in men must occur to release sperm, it is not necessary for women to have an orgasm to get pregnant.

“If you’re of childbearing age, you release an egg each month as part of your regular menstrual cycle,” explains Dr. Brant. “This occurs whether or not you have sex or an orgasm.”

Myth No. 3: I won’t get pregnant if I douche after sex

Douching is not an effective method of contraception.

“After ejaculation, sperms enter the cervix and are out of reach of any douching solution,” states Dr. Brant. “Also, douching is not recommended, as it can disrupt the delicate bacterial balance of the vagina, causing irritation or infection.”

Myth No. 4: I don’t need contraception because we only have sex during the ‘safe’ time

You may have heard of fertility awareness-based methods, such as tracking your basal body temperature and cervical mucus checks, to either get pregnant or avoid getting pregnant.

“Pinpointing the time of ovulation and predicting any ‘safe’ days can be difficult,” notes Dr. Brant. “Couples who have success with the rhythm method of contraception must carefully monitor menstrual cycles and evaluate symptoms of ovulation, as well as any external factors.”

A lack of understanding of the menstrual cycle can potentially lead to an unintended pregnancy.

Many people think you’re only fertile one day a month (and that you can’t get pregnant while on your period). But there are four major hormones (chemicals that stimulate or regulate the activity of cells or organs) involved in the menstrual cycle:

• Follicle-stimulating hormone (FSH)
• Luteinizing hormone (LH)
• Estrogen
• Progesterone

A delicate balance of these hormones regulates the release of an egg (ovulation) and — if the egg isn’t fertilized — menstruation.

And while your cycle can be more or less regular at most times, this balance of hormones can be disrupted by various factors, including age, stress and medicines.

Myth No. 5: I won’t get pregnant if we have sex standing up or if I’m on top

You may think that having sex in certain positions, like standing up, will force the sperm out of your vagina.

“In truth, positions during sex have nothing to do with whether or not fertilization occurs,” says Dr. Brant. “After ejaculation, the sperm is deposited well into the vagina. The sperm will, by nature, begin to move up through the cervical canal immediately after ejaculation.”

Myth No. 6: You can use plastic wrap or a balloon if you don’t have a condom

Plastic wrap and balloons aren’t good to use as condoms. They don’t fit well and can easily be torn during sex.

“Condoms are specifically made to provide a good fit and good protection during sex, and they’re thoroughly tested for maximum effectiveness,” says Dr. Brant.

Myth No. 7: I won’t get pregnant if my partner pulls out before ejaculation

Pulling out before ejaculation, known as withdrawal, is not as effective as some other birth control methods.

“Some ejaculate (fluid that contains sperm) might be released before your partner actually begins to climax,” explains Dr. Brant. “In addition, some people might not have the willpower or be able to withdraw in time. If 100 people use the withdrawal method for pregnancy prevention each year, roughly 22 will have an unintended pregnancy.”

Myth No. 8: I won’t get pregnant because this is my first time having sex

You can get pregnant any time ovulation occurs, even if you’ve never had sex before.

Myth No. 9: I won’t get pregnant if I take a shower or bath right after sex, or if I urinate right after sex

Washing or urinating after sex will not stop semen and sperm that have already entered the uterus through the cervix, stresses Dr. Brant.

Myth No. 10: The pill is effective immediately after you begin taking it

In most cases, at least one week is needed for the hormones in the pill (oral contraceptive) to work with your natural hormones to prevent ovulation.

“To be effective, the pill must be taken as directed,” emphasizes Dr. Brant.

Bottom line?

When it comes to birth control, you may have a lot of questions. And with so many effective methods such as pills, IUDs and condoms versus other ways, it can be confusing to know which form of birth control is best for you.

Don’t hesitate to talk to your Ob/Gyn about your options, as well as any questions you have about whether certain methods or techniques are effective. Your healthcare provider can discuss your medical history, your goals and any possible side effects or risks when it comes to various birth control methods.

“Talking to an Ob/Gyn or other healthcare provider will help ensure that you’re making a well-informed decision about which birth control method is right for you,” encourages Dr. Brant.