Myth 1: Birth control pills lead to infertility

Truth: The contraceptives do not cause infertility. No matter how long a woman has taken the pill, she will be able to get pregnant sometime after she stops hormonal birth control. Yet various birth control methods have different terms of fertility recovery, for example, it may take you up to 1 year to get pregnant after IUD removal.

Myth 2: Birth control pills work only for pregnancy prevention

Truth: Not only. Some of the non-contraceptive benefits of the birth control pill include protection against pelvic inflammatory disease, endometriosis, and acne.

Myth 3: They cause cancer

Truth: The pill can actually protect against certain types of cancers, such as ovarian, endometrial, and colorectal cancers for women who are at average risk.  

Myth 4: I’ll gain weight on birth control

Truth: Research has shown no association between weight gain and birth control. Some women may feel bloated due to the estrogen in the pill, while progestin may increase your appetite. Also, some women may have water retention which can be reduced by switching to a lower dose pill.

Myth 5: I can buy the pill on my own, no need to see a doctor.

Truth: There is no way to purchase oral contraceptives without prior consultation with your ob-gyn. Your doctor will study your medical history and examine your current well-being to give you the most effective prescription.

Sources:

Myths and facts about... Contraceptive Pill, ippf.org

Myths and facts about contraception and long-acting reversible contraception, betterhealth.vic.gov.au  

berkeleywellness.com