This is one of the most heated and opinionated topics worldwide. You’ll come across many people who have strong opinions about birth control. The thing is, when you think of birth control, the first thing that comes to many people’s minds is usually the pill…the one women take to prevent pregnancy. They use it because A) they are not ready for a child, B) they are not financially stable, or C) they simply do not want kids. No big issue here—if a woman wants to take it, that is absolutely her decision.

However, there are people who claim to have a so-called deeper understanding of this topic. They argue that women should not take any form of birth control pills, as they may cause numerous side effects and could potentially affect a woman’s ability to have children in the future.

But are all these claims myths or reality? What does science actually say? I’ve researched this topic thoroughly and have provided the correct information below. I’ve also highlighted a platform that addresses all sexual health issues and offers safer birth control solutions. We’ll cover all of that in depth, so stick with me.

Types of Birth Control?

In very simple terms, any method used to prevent pregnancy is called birth control. So, birth control is not limited to women taking pills; there’s more to the picture, and I’ve listed the options separately for men and women.

Birth Control For Women

Here are the methods that are just for women and can prevent pregnancy.

Implants

A tiny stick is put under your arm that slowly releases hormones to stop pregnancy. It can last 3–5 years.

IUDs (Intrauterine Devices)

A small T-shaped device is placed inside the uterus. It can have hormones or copper to stop sperm from reaching the egg. Works for several years.

Injections

A shot you get every 3 months. It stops eggs from being released, so pregnancy doesn’t happen.

Birth Control Pills

Combined pill: Taken daily, it has two hormones that stop eggs from being released.

Progestin-only pill: Has one hormone and works by stopping eggs from being released and making it harder for sperm to reach the egg.

Vaginal Rings

A soft ring you place inside the vagina. It releases hormones for 3 weeks to prevent pregnancy.

Barrier Methods

Condoms (female): Stop sperm from reaching the egg and also protect against STIs.

Diaphragms: A soft cup placed over the cervix to block sperm.

 

See, I bet you only knew a few of them; however, there are many more methods on the table.

Birth Control For Men

Here are the methods that men use to prevent pregnancy. 

Condoms

The most common method doesn’t even need much introduction, as it’s the most accessible form of birth control for men. But since it’s part of the list, it must be mentioned. Besides preventing pregnancy, condoms also help protect against sexually transmitted infections (STIs). However, companies that make condoms do not claim they are 100% effective, as women can still get pregnant even when condoms are used correctly. This can happen if the condom tears or if sperm somehow reaches the uterus during ejaculation

Pull-Out Method

While not as reliable as other methods, withdrawal involves pulling the penis out before ejaculation to prevent sperm from entering the vagina. It requires careful timing and self-control and is really less performant than other methods.

Vasectomy

This one is the permanent one for men. A vasectomy is a surgical procedure in which the tubes that carry sperm (vas deferens) are cut or sealed. This prevents sperm from being released during ejaculation; that's why it is a permanent method of birth control. It’s highly effective but usually chosen by men who do not want children in the future. So it is a really bold move. 

Birth Control Myths vs. Reality

So now, since we are going to talk only about birth control for women, which is often considered harmful, let me first tell you about the most common myths.

1. Birth control causes infertility
2. Birth control causes major weight gain
3. Birth control causes severe mood swings
4. Birth control causes cancer
5. You only need birth control if you’re sexually active often
6. All birth control methods are dangerous
   
   

On the contrary, are these myths actually true? Well, after a lot of research, the answer is no. First of all, birth control is taken to prevent pregnancy, but sometimes women still get pregnant. There are many cases showing that women became pregnant even while using the pill, so how could it make you infertile? As for the cancer claim, that is simply untrue. Birth control pills can cause some side effects, but not the ones mentioned in the myth list. Here are the side effects mentioned:

1. Nausea
2. Headaches
3. Breast tenderness
4. Spotting or breakthrough bleeding between periods
5. Mood changes or irritability
6. Changes in libido (sex drive)
7. Slight increase in blood pressure
   
   

These side effects can vary from woman to woman. A pill that works well for one person might not suit another. It’s not the pill to blame…  just that every woman’s body is different and reacts differently. The solution is to be careful and informed. Consult a qualified gynecologist before starting any birth control, follow their advice, and choose a method that suits you. Be mindful of the dosage and instructions.

How Nurx Can Help

The thing that many women overlook is that you need to consider your medical history and hormones. You can’t just buy any pill or method that claims to work and start using it—you need one that is designed to fit your body. For that, you need to consult a healthcare professional. While researching this topic, I came across Nurx, an online healthcare platform that makes it easy for people to access birth control and other sexual health services from home.

How it works 

Here is how this platform works:

• Start by filling out a quick and easy online consultation from the comfort of your home; no need for in-person doctor visits.
• Nurx offers a wide variety of options, including pills, patches, and emergency contraception, so you can choose what works for you.
• Your answers are carefully reviewed by a licensed healthcare provider who understands your needs and health history.
• Based on the consultation, they prescribe the birth control method that suits you best, ensuring safety and effectiveness.

Get Started

With all the information about myths, the actual reality, and safer solutions, I hope you now have a better understanding of birth control. Whatever you were unsure about, I hope this has helped clarify it. If you are a woman reading this and want to switch to birth control, there is no problem in doing so. Having children is a huge responsibility that should only be taken on when you are ready. There’s no need to take on that burden if you aren’t prepared. Just make sure to consult a gynecologist; they can guide you better, and consider trying platforms like Nurx. They can help you at every stage. Since it’s about your health, make the right choice.

Nurx runs an affiliate program, and we are affiliated with them. As an affiliate partner, I am excited to share this information with you. To get a discount, click on this link and help us earn a small commission at no additional cost to you. 

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