Myth: IUDs can get dislodged and travel elsewhere in the body.

Fact: If you have an IUD, it is possible that it may get displaced, but it is highly unlikely that it will travel elsewhere in your body apart from the uterus. In some cases, it may get expelled from your uterus and come out of your body. It is recommended that you feel for the strings of the IUD at least once a month to make sure it is still in place.

Myth: Only available long acting reversible contraceptive methods contain hormones.

Fact: There are many long acting reversible contraceptives – including one popular kind that doesn’t contain any hormones at all: The Copper T. This is a small piece of flexible plastic shaped like a ‘T’ that has copper wrapped around it. The device is placed inside the uterus by a trained medical professional and the presence of copper has an effect on the way that sperm swim which makes it harder for them to find an egg. This means that pregnancy won’t happen! The best thing about this contraceptive method is that it can last for 3-10 years (depending on the type you get, and for how long you want it to stay in effect), and your fertility will resume as soon as it is removed. However, some people experience heavy menstrual bleeding and cramping with this method. To know if this method is right for you, one should talk to a doctor and share their complete medical history.

Myth: ECP can be taken to induce periods anytime.

Fact: Emergency Contraceptive pills or ECPs work by delaying or preventing ovulation and/ or implantation of a fertilized egg in the uterus, and their primary purpose is not to induce a withdrawal bleed. The reason behind why one may experience a withdrawal bleed is because ECPs contain higher doses of a progestin called levonorgestrel that triggers bleeding.

Myth: I don’t need to find out information about other contraceptive methods because condoms are the best.

Fact: It’s great to have found the one contraceptive that suits you, but alas for those with a latex allergy or a sex partner without a penis, this might be a harder fit. The best contraceptive for you needn’t also be the best for your neighbor or your friend from maths tuition. Also what works for you now, may no longer work for you in the future, especially if your contraceptive needs change. Every body is different, and that’s why so many contraceptive options exist! The final decision on what method to use should be your choice, not anyone else’s.