Contraception is safe
Contraception is reliable and safe. Don't be fooled by rumors on TikTok or social media - sometimes the strangest stories can be heard there. We explain what is true, give examples, and substantiate everything with reliable sources such as Thuisarts.nl, RIVM.nl, pharmacy.nl and the national government.
The Role of the Pharmacy
As a pharmacy, we help you in a knowledgeable, friendly way. We provide information, answer your questions and advise which drugs are safe. We work with family physicians and refer you when necessary. We make sure you get medication that suits your situation - both over-the-counter and prescription.
Why contraception is reliable
According to the RIVM, the reliability of methods such as the pill, ring, patch and sterilization is around 98% - meaning that only 2 to 5 per 1,000 women per year become pregnant with correct use (LCI Guidelines). Mirena, the hormonal IUD, is even more reliable than sterilization (LCI Guidelines).
A copper IUD with sufficient copper surface area (≥ 300 mm²), such as some models, prevents pregnancy with an effectiveness of about 99% (RIVM).
Types of contraception
- Available over-the-counter (without a prescription):
- Condoms
- Spermicides (e.g.. spermicides)
- Prescription only:
- Contraceptive pill (combined or mini-pill)
- Hormone ring (such as NuvaRing)
- Pleisters
- Hormonal IUDs (Mirena)
- Copper IUDs
- Sterilization (for women or men)
Nonsense on TikTok and doctors' reactions
You may see videos on TikTok claiming that contraception is dangerous or reduces maternity desire, or that the pill would make you "infertile." Doctors react vehemently to that:
"Those claims are really not true. Birth control pills do not damage eggs and your fertility simply returns after use."
Such nonsense stories are not based on scientific evidence. Don't let such incompetent reporting scare you.
Scientific sources and insights
- The RIVM provides reliable figures on effectiveness (as listed above) (LCI Guidelines).
- KNMP (the professional association of pharmacists) provides clear advice on safe medication use, including contraception, and we follow those guidelines in the pharmacy.
- Thuisarts.nl and apotheek.nl offer clear, understandable explanations about contraception, pros and cons, and methods of use - including for you.
- The national government emphasizes in campaigns the importance of safe sexual health and that contraception contributes to self-determination and health.
A reliable source for more info
Do you want to go deeper into the different methods of contraception? Then this article is very helpful. Or check out Apotheek.nl where you can read about what to do if you forget the pill.
Questions?
Please feel free to ask. We're happy to help.
