How myths about birth control still abound in digital age

Hyderabad: September 26 is observed as World Contraception Day, a global campaign that highlights the right to make informed choices about reproductive health.

The day is meant to spark conversations, encourage access to accurate information, and counter the stigma that often surrounds family planning.

Yet, even as medical science has advanced and contraceptive options have expanded, myths and half-truths continue to shape decisions in many households.

These misconceptions range from everyday kitchen remedies to long-standing cultural beliefs. Some of them may seem harmless, but experts caution that they can lead to unintended pregnancies, unsafe practices, and hesitation to seek proper medical guidance.

“Misinformation is one of the biggest barriers to contraception. People rely on hearsay more than science, and this puts their health at risk,” Obstetrician Dr. Meenakshi Ahuja told NewsMeter.

Here is a closer look at some of the most common myths still circulating, what evidence says about them, and why they continue to persist.

Myth 1 — Eating Papaya or Seeds Can Prevent Pregnancy

Many believe that consuming raw papaya or its seeds acts as a natural contraceptive. While lab studies on animals have shown papaya seed extracts affecting fertility, doctors stress that there is no proven effect in humans. Instead, excessive consumption may cause gastric discomfort or, in rare cases, toxicity.

Expert View:

Dr. Abby Philips, a hepatologist, notes, “Papaya seeds are often promoted as contraceptives, but there is no reliable evidence in humans. Misuse can, in fact, harm the body.”

Myth 2 — Breastfeeding Alone Is a Reliable Shield

Exclusive breastfeeding can indeed suppress ovulation for some time after childbirth. This method, known as the Lactational Amenorrhea Method (LAM), can be effective, but only if three conditions are strictly met: the baby is less than six months old, the mother is feeding exclusively on demand (day and night), and she has not resumed menstruation. Outside these conditions, the risk of pregnancy increases significantly.

Expert View:

According to the World Health Organization, “LAM is effective only as a temporary measure, and couples should switch to another contraceptive method once its criteria are no longer fulfilled.”

Myth 3 — Modern Contraceptives Cause Infertility

Pills, intrauterine devices (IUDs), and implants are often accused of leaving women permanently infertile. In reality, fertility usually returns soon after discontinuation, although injectable contraceptives may take a few months for cycles to normalize.

Expert View:

Dr. Preeti Ugran, a gynaecologist, clarifies, “Contraceptive pills do not damage fertility. The fear is psychological, not scientific.”

Myth 4 — Emergency Pills Are Unsafe or Abortive

Emergency contraception is frequently misunderstood as an “abortion pill.” In fact, it works by delaying ovulation and preventing fertilisation. It cannot terminate an established pregnancy and has been declared safe for use by international health agencies.

Expert View:

The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) emphasizes: “Emergency contraceptives are not abortion pills. They are a backup method, not a regular one.”

Myth 5 — First-Time Sex Cannot Lead to Pregnancy

A surprisingly common belief is that pregnancy is unlikely during a first sexual encounter. This is untrue; conception can occur whenever ovulation coincides with unprotected intercourse. Similarly, washing or urinating immediately after sex does not prevent pregnancy.

Expert View:

Dr. Ugran warns, “Sperm can reach the uterus within minutes after ejaculation. No amount of washing or urination can reverse that.”

Myth 6 — All Antibiotics Cancel Out the Pill

While certain medications like rifampicin (used for tuberculosis) can reduce the effectiveness of oral contraceptives, most routine antibiotics do not. Blanket advice that “antibiotics make the pill useless” is misleading and often discourages consistent use.

Expert View:

Dr. Ugran says, “Patients should always disclose their contraceptive use when prescribed new drugs, but most antibiotics do not interfere with hormonal birth control.”

Myth 7 — Using Two Condoms Is Safer Than One

The idea that “double bagging” prevents pregnancy better is flawed. Two condoms create friction, increasing the chance of breakage. Correct single use with appropriate lubrication offers the best protection against both pregnancy and sexually transmitted infections.

Why Do These Myths Persist?

• Cultural Beliefs: Traditional remedies are passed down across generations.

• Silence Around Sexual Health: Taboo prevents open discussion, leaving young people to rely on peers or social media.

• Quick Fix Culture: In an age of instant hacks, kitchen-based “contraceptives” seem appealing.

• Mistrust of Medicine: Fear of side effects and fertility loss creates resistance to proven methods.

Moving Forward

World Contraception Day is not just about promoting condoms or pills; it is about normalising open conversations, dispelling myths, and ensuring people have access to reliable information. As Dr. Ahuja emphasises: “Contraception is a matter of choice, but choice must be informed. Without correct knowledge, there is no true choice at all.”