Is it true that...?

There are many myths and misconceptions surrounding the oral contraceptive (OCs) pill. It is natural to have questions when you are weighing all the contraceptive choices that are available to you. The following may provide some of the answers you are looking for:

Does the pill make you fat?

Some women report weight gain with OCs - but then again, others say they've lost weight. Weight gain tends to be associated more with older contraceptive pills, not the newer low-dose OCs which contain smaller amounts of the hormone estrogen. The amount of exercise you get and what you eat are more likely to influence your weight than OCs.

Should women who take the pill have a "rest" from the pill once in awhile?

There is no reason to stop taking the pill unless you want to become pregnant. Doctors recommend that once your system becomes used to the pill you should keep on taking it, not only for continuous protection against pregnancy, but also to avoid irregular periods.

Does the pill protect against sexually transmitted diseases (STDs) and HIV?

No. You need to use additional protection such as a latex condom (either a male condom or a female condom) and a spermicide.

Can pill use affect future fertility?

No, the pill does not influence your chances of becoming pregnant. Other factors like age however do influence your fertility.