10 Myths about Birth Control Pills

The birth control pill has been a go-to contraceptive method for millions of women worldwide—yet it’s quite misunderstood. From concerns about health to confusion about effectiveness, Christine Gerber, MD, an Atlantic Health obstetrician and gynecologist, helps set the record straight.

“We prescribe birth control pills for so many reasons beyond preventing pregnancy,” says Dr. Gerber. “Women have different goals and symptoms, and each brand has varying dosages of the hormones estrogen and progesterone. It’s important to learn how the pill works and what’s best for your body.”

1. The pill causes weight gain - FALSE

Most studies show the pill does not cause you to gain weight. Although some women may experience slight changes in appetite or fluid retention, weight gain is not a typical side effect for most women.

2. The pill causes infertility - FALSE

There is no evidence the pill causes long-term infertility. Once you stop using it, your fertility typically returns to normal based on your age and will not affect your natural ability to conceive in the future.

3. The pill is only for women who want to avoid pregnancy - FALSE

Although the pill is commonly used for contraception, it is prescribed for migraines, regulating periods, reducing acne, managing polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and alleviating menstrual cramps.

4. If you don’t take the placebo pills, you can get pregnant - FALSE

There is no medical need to take the placebo pills. This week of non-hormone pills helps keep you on a regular one-pill-a-day schedule. Each month’s pack has only three weeks of active medication.

5. The pill is 100% effective at preventing pregnancy - FALSE

When taken as prescribed, the pill has a 99% effective rate. It becomes less effective (92%) when pills are missed or taken irregularly. If this happens, condoms can provide an extra layer of protection.

6. The pill increases the risk of cancer - FALSE

Actually, studies show a decrease in rates of ovarian and uterine cancer and no increased lifetime risk of breast cancer with long-term pill use.

7. The pill causes mood swings and depression - FALSE

Birth control pills do not cause depression. While some women may experience changes in mood, finding the right pill dosage and brand for your body can stabilize mood swings rather than cause them.

8. You can’t take the pill if you smoke - FALSE

Heavy smoking, which is more than 15 cigarettes a day, can increase the risk of blood clots, especially for women over 35 who use the pill. It is important to have this discussion with your doctor.

9. You should take a break from the pill to "reset" your body - FALSE

There is no medical reason to take a break from the pill. Continuous use does not harm your health, and stopping isn’t necessary unless you are managing side effects or planning for pregnancy.

10. The pill protects against sexually transmitted infections (STIs) - FALSE

The pill does not protect against STIs. Condoms are the only birth control method that can reduce your risk of STI transmission. To understand how to protect yourself from STIs, talk with your doctor.

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Published: April 07, 2025

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10 myths about birth control pills