There are so many myths out there, discouraging those that would have benefited from the use of contraceptives, from ever going for it.
Unfortunately, due to poor coverage of medical sensitization, these myths have been largely accepted as being true and of course, people believe them.
We would highlight 5 of those myths below
1. Family planning causes infertility
This, of course, is not true. The use of contraceptives do not cause infertility. However, some hormonal contraceptives could have a little delay of about 1-3months before their effect is completely reversed in the body. That is why, one is counselled before the commencement of any type of contraceptive
2. Family planning makes people fat.
This has been exaggerated so much to an extent that it has become a major phobia and discouragement to women. Not all family planning methods causes weight gain. And not everyone is affected. The choice of a suitable method of contraception depends on ones medical history and contraception needs. Even among most women that had weight gain, the effect was minimal. With or without family planning, people would continue to add weight. So, weight gain is not the problem, rather misinformation is.
3. Family Planning stops menstruation
This is a half-truth. Depending on the type of contraception, there could be menstrual changes such as irregular or missed periods. The menses could be shorter or lighter. Some might experience intermenstrual spotting etc. But these are predictable side effects with no threatening consequences. And these side effects are reversed as soon as the contraceptive is discontinued.
4. Family Planning does not protect one from getting pregnant
The main purpose of family planning is to prevent pregnancy, however, if one does not follow instructions and use it as recommended, there could be risk of pregnancy. However, most hormonal contraception, when used right, provides about 99% efficiency.
5. The use of contraceptives causes fibroids
This is a little bit complicated, but let’s explain.
Fibroid is a benign growth in the uterus. It’s growth is not well-understood, but certain hormones such as estrogen has been implicated to increase the risk of fibroid. This means that, estrogen-containing hormonal contraceptives may increase the growth of fibroids in women that already have fibroids
Also, the symptoms of fibroids can improve with some hormonal contraceptives. But contraceptives do not not reduce the size of fibroids.
There are several options of family planning one can choose from depending on the person’s medical history but it is not clear what causes fibroids to develop and grow. With or without family planning, women within childbearing age would continue to have fibroids, hence, the fear of fibroid should not discourage women from opting in for family planning
In summary
Family planning have its side effects, however, these side effects are nothing compared to the benefits one derives from its use
If you would like a more in-depth explanation and counselling on family planning, Click Here
