Birth control pills are one of the safest and most widely used contraceptives against unwanted pregnancy. However, their use is often associated with concerns that they cause side effects. Others consider them a universal protector against the risks of sex, while others do not consider it necessary to use them at all. Here are some myths and facts about contraceptives: 1. They make you fat This is the most persistent rumor that does not quite correspond to reality. Birth control pills have gotten this bad reputation because of the estrogen they contain. It stimulates the accumulation of fluids in the tissues, which leads to an increase in weight by 1-2 kg. NEWS_MORE_BOX But not only don’t you necessarily gain weight from them, taking them can even have the opposite effect. This is because modern tablets contain the substance drospirenone. It prevents fluid accumulation and even helps with weight loss. 2. Lead to infertility Oral contraceptives do not threaten female fertility, but on the contrary – reduce the risk of developing pelvic inflammatory disease and ectopic pregnancy – one of the main causes of sterility. It is even possible to get pregnant more easily immediately after stopping taking them. 3. They cause cancer Hormonal tablets reduce the risk of inflammatory processes and carcinoma. This is due to the fact that they prevent ovulation. Contraceptives most strongly reduce the risk of colon, rectal, uterine, and ovarian cancer.