This section addresses common misconceptions about birth control and sex, replacing them with accurate information. Myths can spread easily among teens, so it’s important to clarify facts. We cover false beliefs about contraceptive methods, fertility, and STIs, using trusted medical sources to explain the truth.
Myths and Facts
What It Is
Why It Matters
Believing myths can lead to risky behavior. For example, a teen who thinks “pulling out works fine” (false) might have unprotected sex and risk pregnancy. Or if someone believes “I won’t get pregnant during my period” (false), they might skip protection and end up pregnant. Clearing up misconceptions empowers teens to use contraception correctly and avoid harm. For instance, one AAP expert notes that many persistent teen pregnancy myths interfere with good choices, so pediatricians must correct them. Likewise, the CDC and WHO emphasize that comprehensive education should dispel myths and teach real facts.
Common Myths and Facts
Myth: “Birth control pills cause long-term infertility.”
Fact: Fertility returns almost immediately after stopping most birth control25. Research shows no lasting effect on the ability to get pregnant25. In fact, if you stop taking the pill, you can often conceive right away (except the Depo-shot, which can take several months to wear off). STIs are more likely to cause long-term fertility issues than birth control25, so using protection actually helps future fertility.
Myth: “Emergency contraception is the same as an abortion pill.”
Fact: EC (the morning-after pill) does not terminate an existing pregnancy28. It works by delaying ovulation or preventing fertilization. If you are already pregnant, EC will not have any effect. Medical experts confirm EC does not harm an embryo or increase miscarriage risk28. The abortion pill (mifepristone) is different and works only after a confirmed pregnancy.
Myth: “You can’t get pregnant if you have sex during your period.”
Fact: You can get pregnant from sex during a period, though it’s less likely. Sperm can live inside the body for up to 5 days. If you ovulate soon after your period, sperm from sex near the end of your bleed could fertilize an egg. Because cycle lengths vary, there’s no guaranteed “safe” time unless you use birth control. Condoms or other contraception should always be used if pregnancy is not desired.
Myth: “You can always tell if someone has an STI.”
Fact: You cannot judge by appearance. Many STIs have no symptoms23. For example, someone may have chlamydia or HIV without looking sick. The only way to know is testing. This is why condoms are important even if your partner “looks clean.”
Myth: “Pulling out is just as effective as a condom.”
Fact: No. Pulling out (withdrawal) is much less reliable. Before ejaculation, a man releases pre-ejaculate fluid that can contain sperm22. This means pregnancy can happen even if he pulls out in time. Condoms are far more effective at preventing pregnancy and also protect against STIs, so they are strongly recommended instead of relying on withdrawal.
Myth: “The birth control pill causes cancer.”
Fact: Modern birth control pills do not cause cancer24. In fact, current evidence shows they can reduce the risk of ovarian and uterine cancers. While early high-dose pills (1960s) had more side effects, today’s low-dose pills are very safe24. Like any medication, pills have pros and cons, but causing cancer is not one of them.
Myth: “Only gay men get HIV.”
Fact: Absolutely not. Anyone can get HIV or any other STI if they have unprotected sex (vaginal, anal, or oral) or share needles32. HIV is transmitted by specific body fluids (blood, semen, vaginal fluids, breast milk)33, regardless of sexual orientation. Safe sex practices (condoms, testing) are important for everyone.
Myth: “Eating chocolate or greasy food causes acne.”
Fact: While diet affects overall health, no solid evidence links specific foods (like chocolate or pizza) directly to acne14. Acne is mainly due to hormones and skin oil production. However, a balanced diet (lots of fruits, vegetables, water) promotes clear skin and overall wellness, even if it’s not a cure-all for pimples.
Myth: “Douching or washing out after sex prevents pregnancy or STIs.”
Fact: Douching is ineffective and can be harmful. It does not flush out sperm fast enough and can disrupt vaginal pH, raising infection risk. For STIs, washing cannot prevent infection – pathogens can enter during sex. The only reliable prevention is using condoms or contraception before sex.
Myth: “If my partner hasn’t had sex before, I don’t need protection.”
Fact: Previous sexual history is irrelevant; virginity does not guarantee STI-free status. STIs can be transmitted non-sexually or from previous partners (e.g., via shared towels or fluids, though that’s rare). Always use protection regardless of your partner’s history, unless both have been tested very recently.
Age-Specific Tips
Ages 13-15
They may hear these myths from friends or media. Encourage critical thinking: “Where did you hear that?” Answer simply with facts. Keep it brief but clear. For example, say “Actually, Plan B isn’t an abortion pill” and cite a trusted source (like a doctor or clinic brochure).
Ages 16-18
They may challenge authority, so use a respectful tone. Present data: e.g., “Studies show X% of couples use condoms successfully10.” Encourage them to verify online myths with reliable websites (WHO, CDC, Planned Parenthood). Remind them that legitimate health organizations give evidence-based info. If they encounter a myth (even from TV or Instagram), prompt them to question it and look it up.