Using modern contraception is not a common topic for girls. Most often, we tend to keep it a secret if we use contraceptives. Admit it, we girls are ashamed or uncomfortable if the public knows we are using IUD, pills or even condoms.
However, in this modern world, I believe it is time for everyone, not only every female but also our counterpart, husband or partner to learn and be educated about contraception, because we will benefit if we value reproductive and sexual health.
Last Thursday at Romulo Cafe Makati, we talked about breaking the barrier and misconceptions about modern contraception. Bayer Pharmaceuticals Country Division head Junli Kim was present during the talk. He explained that Bayer Pharmaceuticals wanted to educate Filipino women and couples to make informed choices about their reproductive and sexual health.
First speaker, TV personality Ms. Via Antonio, narrated her experience of getting pregnant at a very young age and how she’s into planned pregnancy today. Via was vocal about using pills today because of the benefits that she’s getting from it. Actually, she proclaim that because of using pills, she doesn’t worry about unwanted pregnancy and at the same time, she maintained her beautiful skin.
On the other hand, the “Pillowtalk” about the myths and misconceptions became lighter and interesting topic because of Dr. Amity Casurao-Trono’s wit and humor. Dr. Trono is an obstetrician and gynecologist at St. Luke’s Medical Center, QC and Rizal Medical Center.
Did you know?
Pills do not cause birth defects:
- No adverse effects were observed when combined oral contraceptives were accidentally taken during early pregnancy .
Pills do not increase cancer risk
- Studies have not established strong and direct links between breast cancer and pill usage. In fact the risk of cancer lowered with COC use. It reduces risks for certain cancers such as ovarian cancer (-40% lower), endometrial cancer (-50% lower) and colorectal cancer (-20% lower). However, it does not protect from sexually transmitted disease.
Pills do not make you infertile
- 21% of women get pregnant after one month of stopping taking COCs and 79% get pregnant after one year of stopping.
The Pill is not for you if:
- Presence or history of Deep Vain Thrombosis, PE, MI, Ischemic stroke, TIA, Angina
- Severe liver disease
- DM with vascular disease
- Migraine with Aura
- Breast Cancer
- Undiagnosed vaginal bleeding
- Known or suspected pregnancy
- Smokers > 35 y/o
- Severe lipid disease
- Uncontrolled hypertension
Dr. Trono reiterated that not all pills work the same for every ladies, so it is important to consult your OB-Gyne.
Hope you can Watch the video for more insights