Knowledge Centre · Patient guide
Contraception Myths That Keep Circulating
Contraception advice travels informally, and some of what circulates was never true. Four common myths, checked against the evidence, timed for World Contraception Day.
Contraception advice spreads fast through friends and forums, and some of what circulates was never true. Four of the most persistent myths, checked here directly.
Myth: the pill causes infertility
Not true. Fertility returns to your personal baseline after stopping, usually within a few cycles. What can look like the pill “causing” infertility is often an underlying condition, such as PMOS, that the pill was masking by regulating your cycle while you were taking it.
Myth: an IUD isn’t suitable if you haven’t had children
Not true. Both hormonal and copper IUDs are suitable for most people regardless of whether they have given birth, and are among the most effective reversible options available.
Myth: you need a break from hormonal contraception every so often
Not true. There is no medical basis for a routine break from continuous hormonal contraception. The right question is whether the method still suits you now, not whether it is time for a pause.
Myth: emergency contraception is the same as an abortion
Not true. Emergency contraception works by delaying or preventing ovulation, before pregnancy occurs. It does not end an existing pregnancy.
When to contact us about your contraception
- Severe abdominal pain after starting a new method
- Bleeding significantly heavier or longer than your normal pattern
- Signs of infection: fever, unusual discharge, or pelvic pain after an IUD is fitted
- Any missed period while on a method that should be preventing pregnancy
What to expect at Network One Health
Choosing or changing a contraceptive method is a direct conversation about your history and goals, not a method assigned by default. If a method is not working for you, switching is a normal, low-friction conversation.
Frequently asked questions
Can I get pregnant immediately after stopping any method? For most methods, yes. The exception is some injectable methods, where a delay of several months to return to your normal fertility is possible.
Does contraception protect against sexually transmitted infections? Only condoms, among common contraceptive methods, offer meaningful protection. Other methods prevent pregnancy only.
Is it safe to use emergency contraception more than once? Yes, though it is not intended as your regular ongoing method, since it is less effective than dedicated ongoing contraception.
Ready to talk? Ask us to call you or WhatsApp 071 224 2788.
Sources and guidance
- Your contraception guide, NHS
- Emergency contraception, American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG)
- IUD (coil), NHS
Your next step
Getting a plan that actually suits you, not a myth, starts with a proper consultation:
Prices are what you pay, not an estimate. We confirm your own fee after a short eligibility and affordability check, and there is no obligation.
Rather just talk it through?
Tell us what you have read and what you are worried about. We call you back. You do not need a referral, and nothing is booked until you say so.
We call back Monday to Friday, 8am to 5pm, usually the same working day.