For many people, the benefits of contraceptives--particularly contraceptives such as condoms, which can help prevent the spread of disease--far outweigh the risks. However, there are risks associated with most of the common forms of contraceptives that should be considered. In addition, most forms of contraception do nothing to prevent the transmission of disease, making a possible ancillary danger of any contraceptive a false sense of security.
Latex Allergies
Sexually active individuals using condoms as a contraceptive should be aware of whether they have an allergy to latex. Although allergies to latex are rare--only seen in approximately 3 percent of the population--side effects can range in seriousness from hives to anaphylactic shock, according to the American Latex Allergy Association. While non-latex condoms are available to individuals with sensitivity to latex, studies indicate non-latex condoms may be three to five times more likely to break during intercourse, increasing the risk of both pregnancy and sexually transmitted infection, according to the American Latex Allergy Association.
Birth Control Pills
Many dangerous side effects have been ascribed to birth control pills that are either exaggerated or entirely untrue. According to the Mayo Clinic, claims that the pill causes weight gain are false, and increased risks of certain types of cancer are accompanied by a reduced risk for other types of cancer. However, birth control pills can cause high blood pressure, which can make them dangerous for some women. The Mayo Clinic suggests women who are at high risk for heart problems use an alternative form of contraception. In addition, women over 35 who smoke cigarettes cannot take the pill safely.
Depo-Provera
Medroxyprogesterone acetate, better known by its commercial name, Depo-Provera, is a contraceptive injection that prevents pregnancy for up to three months. According to Drugs.com, Depo-Provera causes a significant loss of bone mineral density in women of all ages, especially with extended use. Because of the loss of bone density--particularly because of the unknown effect this could have on adolescents, whose bone development is incomplete--Depo-Provera should be treated with caution. Medroxyprogesterone acetate should only be used if other contraceptive methods are impossible, according to Drugs.com, and then used for no more than two years.
