About 224 million women still do not have access to family planning

The increased use reflects a major health success that has enabled millions of young people to avoid unintended pregnancies and have freedom of choice over their future. UNFPA said that “for far too many, the basic human right to choose whether to have children continues to be undermined.”

‘Contraceptives save lives’

According to UNFPA, the unavailability of contraception leads to an increase in the number of unintended pregnancies and a higher rate of maternal deaths due to unsafe abortions.

The consequences go far beyond health and contribute to an increase in teenage pregnancies, school dropouts and an increased risk of gender-based violence.

“Contraceptives save lives,” reiterated Diene Keita, UNPA Executive Director.

Moreover, they also provide significant economic benefits.

“Every dollar spent on ending the unmet need for contraception delivers nearly $27 in economic benefits,” Ms. Keita said.

Here are five common myths about birth control.

1. Contraception is unsafe

Modern forms of contraception are among the “most prescribed and best studied” medications in existence, according to UNFPA.

The health risks associated with an unintended pregnancy are “significantly higher” than any recommended method of contraception.

2. Using contraception can cause an abortion

Contraceptives do not cause abortion or miscarriage; they work by preventing fertilization or ovulation – thus preventing pregnancy in the first place.

3. Birth control harms your fertility

Contraceptives do not cause infertility. Some hormonal methods (such as injectable contraceptives) can temporarily delay the resumption of ovulation and menstruation, but do not lead to permanent infertility.

4. Natural family planning methods are safer than hormonal methods

Nowadays, alternative methods of contraception are becoming very popular on social media: cycle tracking methods, fertility awareness methods (i.e. daily temperature checks).

These “natural methods” are “significantly less likely to prevent pregnancy,” UNFPA underlined. “The most effective methods of contraception are modern methods.”

5. You may not use contraception if you are single or if your partner does not want to

Research shows that young people with access to sexual and reproductive health information and services do not increase their sexual activity.

Instead, it provides them with information to make responsible decisions.

“Every individual has the right to decide whether or not to become pregnant,” UNFPA said.

No one should ever be pressured into having unprotected sex – a form of reproductive coercion that UNFPA has reiterated constitutes abuse.