Year: 2024 | Month: May | Volume: 14 | Issue: 5 | Pages: 368-375
DOI: https://doi.org/10.52403/ijhsr.20240549
Myths and Misconceptions – Unraveling the Paradox of Oral Contraceptive Pills
Jijo Joseph1, Krishnapriya Pradeepkumar2, Thejalakshmi Chettyparambil Lalchand3, Naga Harika Korrapati4
1Department of Medicine, David Tvildiani Medical University, Tbilisi, Georgia 2,3Medical Student at David Tvildiani Medical University, Tbilisi, Georgia 4Department of Medicine, David Tvildiani Medical University, Tbilisi, Georgia
Corresponding Author: Jijo Joseph
ABSTRACT
Since its introduction, the oral contraceptive pill [OCP] has developed into the most utilized birth control technique, setting other birth control methods aside. These tablets have comparable benefits as well as drawbacks, with the highest level of contraceptive effectiveness and the potential for adverse effects such as venous thromboembolism [VTE]. Contraceptives have significantly improved women's health by preventing unintended pregnancies, decreasing the risk of unsafe abortions, extending the time between pregnancies, and giving women the opportunity to recuperate from the physical demands of pregnancy. Even though OCPs are widely used, misconceptions concerning them continue to exist, impacting decisions about how to utilize them and spreading misleading information. This article provides a comprehensive analysis of widespread misconceptions regarding oral contraceptive pills, which might range from cultural norms to a person's lack of knowledge on how they should use them. We were able to discover evidence in the literature review that, in certain situations, doctors' reluctance to provide OCPs to their patients has also been a significant problem. The most often held misconceptions from the data we collected included concerns about whether OCP can increase the risk of uterine fibroids, whether these pills cause severe psychological issues in women, and the social shame attached to using these tablets. Also, a pronounced fear of sterility and health problems, has also seemed to play a significant role in their choice to quit using OCP. By looking at each of these elements in detail, we can highlight that the only things contributing to these incorrect notions are a lack of appropriate information and communication regarding the use of OCPs, their side effects, and the verbal dissemination of false information by people who are not fully aware of this treatment, which prevents these treatments from being used when they are vitally important for women. There is a possibility of addressing these challenges by providing healthcare professionals and consumers with accurate guidance, highlighting the advantages of these medications for leading better lives, preventing unintended pregnancies, and fostering cross-cultural understanding to encourage acceptance of this treatment option when needed.
Key words: OCP, Women, Contraceptive, Risk, Symptoms, Pills, Effects, Oral