Originally published March 30, 2026. Updated October 6, 2026, to reflect current medical guidance on common birth control myths, risks and effectiveness.
Birth control has been around for generations, but myths about contraception still spread easily. Some are harmless misunderstandings, while others can make it harder to choose or use birth control confidently.
From condoms and birth control pills to IUDs and implants, here are some of the most common birth control myths—and what the evidence actually says.
Myth: Condoms Break All the Time
Condoms can break or slip, but problems often stem from incorrect use.
External condoms are about 87% effective with typical use, meaning about 13 out of 100 users relying on them become pregnant during the first year. When used correctly every time, they are considerably more effective.
Using the correct size, checking the expiration date, leaving space at the tip and using a compatible lubricant can reduce the chance of breakage.
And no—a condom cannot travel through the cervix and become lost inside the uterus.
Myth: Two Condoms Are Better Than One
Using two external condoms at the same time does not provide extra protection.
Friction between the condoms can actually make breakage more likely. The same applies to using an external condom and an internal condom together.
Use one condom at a time and follow the package directions carefully.
Myth: Birth Control Pills Cause Infertility
Birth control pills do not cause long-term infertility.
Fertility generally returns after the pill is stopped, although how quickly pregnancy occurs naturally varies from person to person. Age and underlying fertility issues may affect the ability to conceive, but years of pill use do not permanently suppress fertility.
Myth: The Pill Always Causes Weight Gain
Research has not found a clear causal link between most hormonal contraceptives and significant weight gain.
Some people notice changes in appetite, fluid retention or weight while using birth control, but that does not mean the pill itself is necessarily responsible. The contraceptive injection is one hormonal method that has been more consistently associated with weight gain in some users.
Myth: Birth Control Pills Cause Cancer
The relationship between hormonal birth control and cancer is more complicated than a simple yes or no.
Combined hormonal contraceptives are associated with a lower risk of ovarian and endometrial cancers, and ACOG notes that they may also reduce colorectal cancer risk. At the same time, some hormonal methods may be associated with small changes in the risk of certain other cancers.
Your individual risks depend on factors including age, family history and how long you use hormonal contraception.
Myth: Birth Control Pills Have No Side Effects
Birth control pills are safe for most users, but side effects can occur.
Depending on the formulation, possible side effects may include:
- Headaches
- Nausea
- Breast tenderness
- Changes in bleeding
- Mood changes
- Changes in libido
Combined hormonal contraceptives also carry a small increased risk of blood clots, stroke and heart attack, particularly for people with certain risk factors.
That is why the best birth control pill for one person may not be the best option for another.
Myth: You Need to Have Had a Baby Before Getting an IUD
You do not need to have given birth before getting an IUD.
IUDs are considered appropriate for many adolescents and adults, including people who have never been pregnant or given birth.
Myth: IUDs Cause Infertility
Modern IUDs do not cause infertility.
Research has not found an association between previous IUD use and future infertility. Untreated sexually transmitted infections, particularly chlamydia and gonorrhea, are much more important risk factors for pelvic inflammatory disease and tubal infertility.
Myth: IUDs Cause Ongoing Pelvic Infections
An IUD does not continually increase the risk of pelvic inflammatory disease simply because it is inside the uterus.
The risk of infection associated with IUD placement is low. The greatest concern is an untreated STI being present when the device is inserted.
IUDs do not protect against sexually transmitted infections, so condoms may still be recommended for STI prevention.
Myth: Your Partner Can Always Feel an IUD During Sex
The IUD itself sits inside the uterus and should not be felt during intercourse.
Thin strings extend through the cervix into the upper vagina so the device can later be removed. Most partners do not notice them, though they may occasionally feel them.
If the strings are bothersome, a healthcare provider can check their position and may be able to trim them.
Myth: IUDs Increase Your Risk of Ectopic Pregnancy
IUDs dramatically reduce the overall risk of pregnancy, including ectopic pregnancy, because they are so effective at preventing pregnancy in the first place.
However, if pregnancy does occur with an IUD in place, there is a greater chance that the pregnancy could be ectopic. Anyone who receives a positive pregnancy test while using an IUD should contact a healthcare provider promptly.
Myth: Birth Control Implants Can Travel Around Your Body
The contraceptive implant is placed just beneath the skin of the upper arm and is designed to remain there.
Serious complications from implant movement are uncommon. A healthcare provider should be able to locate the implant before removing it.
The implant is one of the most effective reversible contraceptives available, with a typical-use failure rate of about 0.1%.
Myth: You Need Surgery to Get a Birth Control Implant
The implant is inserted during a minor office procedure, not major surgery.
A healthcare professional numbs the area and places the small flexible rod just beneath the skin of the upper arm. Removal is also generally performed using local anesthetic through a small incision.
Myth: Birth Control Protects Against STIs
Most forms of birth control prevent pregnancy but do not protect against sexually transmitted infections.
IUDs, implants, pills, patches, rings and injections do not prevent STIs.
Condoms remain an important option because they can reduce the risk of many sexually transmitted infections while also helping prevent pregnancy.
The Bottom Line
Birth control myths often start with a small piece of truth and become misleading as they’re repeated.
Modern contraceptives are generally safe and highly effective, but every method has advantages, disadvantages and potential side effects. Rather than relying on something you heard years ago, check current medical guidance and speak with a healthcare professional about which option best fits your health and lifestyle.
