Summer distractions and the search for practical and non-invasive contraceptives: these are the main reasons for the influx of Italian women to the gynecologist upon returning from vacation. The beginning of autumn marks, in fact, a 30% increase in visits to gynecological clinics. compared to the average for the rest of the year. This is why it continues to be important for women and men to take care of their sexual health, especially by returning to the daily routine. With the arrival of autumn, contraception cannot be forgotten!
Bayer, who has been alongside women for 80 years and takes care of their health, together with Doctor Roberta Rossi, sexologist and President of the Italian Federation of Scientific Sexology and Doctor Manuela Farris, specialist in Gynecology and Obstetrics and member of the Italian Society of Contraception (SIC), presents three false myths and three truths about sexuality and contraception that (perhaps) are not yet known.
The pill makes you fat - FALSE
If you've come back from vacation with a few extra pounds, it's definitely not the pill's fault. This is perhaps one of the strongest deterrents to taking hormonal contraceptives, instead it is a false myth.
«Today contraceptives are available with individualized and variable hormonal dosages according to the woman's needs and metabolic characteristics, to be evaluated together with the gynecologist and modified if they give unwanted responses» says Dr. Rossi.
Hormonal Contraceptives May Decrease Fertility - FALSE
"Hormonal contraceptives such as the pill, the vaginal ring, the transdermal patch, the hormonal coil (intrauterine system) and the" subcutaneous implant can also be used for long periods, without risk for a woman's fertility, "explains Dr. Farris.
I stopped taking the pill when I went on vacation; I can start over now to be protected - TRUE
Yes, but with the go-ahead from the gynecologist. «The same woman who in the past took the pill without problems today may have different clinical conditions and suffer, for example, from a disorder that could make the pill contraindicated. If there is no time for the visit and any exams upon returning from vacation, it is better to prefer a barrier method »confirms Dr. Farris.
Birth control methods can cause erythema or eczema following sun exposure - FALSE
"No, never: it is not hormonal contraception that causes photosensitization episodes, but a" reckless exposure to sunlight on your last vacation. Remember to always protect your skin from the sun, "says Dr. Farris.
Contraceptive Methods Can Improve Libido - TRUE
"If it is true that one of the most well-known side effects of hormonal contraceptives is the decrease in desire, some substances contained, for example, in the pill can reduce vaginal dryness and therefore promote sexual intercourse. Furthermore, eliminating the worries of an "possible unwanted pregnancy can improve the couple's sex life" explains Dr. Rossi.
There is only one contraceptive choice for couples - FALSE
«The criteria for an informed and conscious choice of a contraceptive method for a couple are different, according to the different needs and requirements, to live serenely" intimacy with one's partner ".
To dispel any doubts, just visit the Sceglitu website of the Italian Society of Gynecology and Obstetrics (SIGO) in collaboration with Bayer, contact your gynecologist and follow the #dilloatuasorella campaign together with La Pina of Radio Deejay on the Instagram channel My Contraception Italia.
Contraceptive choice only affects women - TRUE / FALSE
«Every woman should choose the most suitable method of contraception, according to her needs, thanks to the support of the gynecologist. In a couple relationship it is correct that this choice is shared with the partner. It remains essential to talk to your trusted doctor to find the best contraceptive method for your intimacy as a couple »concludes Dr. Rossi.
