9 Contraception Myths That Could Be Putting Your Health at Risk

You shouldn’t take antibiotics because they mess with your birth control

According to Anate Brauer, MD, attending physician, Greenwich Hospital and NYU Medical Center, there is really only one antibiotic, Rifampin, that has been shown to decrease the efficacy of hormonal contraception such as estrogen delivered through a ring or patch. “While there are many reports of failed contraception while taking antibiotics, Rifampin is really the only one antibiotic that has been shown to increase activity of these liver enzymes, thereby making this method of contraception less effective,” she says. “If you are prescribed Rifampin, or any other medication that increases metabolism of hormonal contraception (some anti-fungals, anti-seizure medications and even some herbal supplements such as St. John’s Wart), use a form of barrier protection such as condoms.”

(Watch for the nine signs you’re on the wrong birth control.)

The post 9 Contraception Myths That Could Be Putting Your Health at Risk appeared first on Reader's Digest.