In the realm of women’s health, contraception remains a pivotal topic. However, misconceptions about contraceptives often hinder effective communication and informed decision-making. BlackDoctor.org spoke with Dr. Kameelah Phillips, Organon Health Partner & Board-Certified Obstetrician/Gynecologist in private practice, who sheds light on common myths, the benefits of contraception, and how women can make informed choices in consultation with their healthcare providers.
Debunking Common Myths
Myth 1: Contraception Impacts Long-Term Fertility
One pervasive myth is that contraception negatively affects long-term fertility. However, this is not true.
“When I’m talking to people in the office about contraception, most of these individuals are of reproductive age and have plans to build their families. We discuss the reversibility of contraception. For instance, with Nexplanon, when we remove the device in the office, I inform them that if they’re not ready to start family planning, it’s important to use some type of backup contraception because they can become fertile within five days of removal of the implant,” Dr. Phillips says.
Myth 2: Contraception Offers No Benefits Beyond Pregnancy Prevention
Another misconception is that contraception solely serves to prevent pregnancy. In reality, it offers numerous health benefits.
“Many people think of it strictly as family planning, but contraception can provide great benefits such as reducing heavy bleeding, pelvic pain, acne, and endometriosis, as well as helping to reduce the risk of certain types of cancers,” Dr. Phillips adds.
Myth 3: Contraception Is Separate from Holistic Health
“There’s a misconception that contraception cannot be part of a holistic lifestyle,” Dr. Phillips notes. “It often gets categorized as something separate from healthy living. However, there are ways that contraception can really help you enjoy your best life.”
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Exploring Your Contraceptive Options
When it comes to choosing the right contraceptive, the decision should be tailored to your lifestyle and health needs.
“I actually throw the question back to patients: what type of person are you? Are you someone who can manage something daily, or do you prefer flexibility and not having to think about contraception much? What’s your personality like? This insight helps guide our discussion,” Dr. Phillips advises.
Below, Dr. Phillips categorizes hormonal contraception based on the frequency of use and your lifestyle:
