MYTHS ABOUT CONTRACEPTIVES

Whatis Contraceptive?

Is the use variousdevices, drugs, agents, sexual practices, or surgical procedures to preventconception or impregnation (pregnancy). Contraception helps women plan if and whenthey want to have a baby. The condom is the only current contraception devicethat helps protect sexual partners from STIs (sexually transmitted infections).Contraception means "Prevention of conception or impregnation"

What is Birth Control?

It involves one or moreactions, devices, sexual practices or medications followed to intentionallyprevent or reduce the likelihood of pregnancy or childbirth. The three mainroutes of birth control to prevent or end pregnancy include contraception (theprevention of fertilization of the ovum by sperm cells), contragestion(preventing the fertilized egg from implantation - morning-after-pill), and thechemical or surgical induction of abortion of the developing embryo/fetus.

Whatis a myth?  A prevalent story or belief which is false orunsubstantiated

Myths are dispelled by

�        Evaluate the source

�        Examining theexpertise or authority of the source

�        Assessing theobjectivity of the source

�        Conducting your ownresearch

 What is a Contraceptive Myth?

Contraceptive myths have been around for thousands of years.Ancient methods have varied from crocodile dung and honey before sex, to seasponges and beeswax after. Perhaps the most intoxicating was alcohol made fromstewed beaver's testicle. Teens are often misinformed about contraceptionby friends and potential partners some of which are so incorrect it can beconsidered myth.

Following are some common mythsregarding sex and contraception.

1. I�m breastfeeding so I can�tget pregnant.

2. You can�t get pregnant if thewoman doesn�t have an orgasm.

3. I won�t get pregnant if Idouche after sex.

4. I don�t need contraceptionbecause we only have sex during the "safe" time. You�re only fertileone day a month.

5. I won�t get pregnant if we havesex standing up or if the woman is on top.

6. You can use plastic wrap or aballoon if you don�t have a condom.

7. I won�t get pregnant if mypartner pulls out before he ejaculates.

8. I won�t get pregnant becausethis is my first time having sex.

9. I won�t get pregnant if I takea shower or bath right after sex, or if I urinate right after sex.

10. The Pill is effectiveimmediately after you begin taking it.