Since they first were introduced to the American market in 1960, or oral contraceptives or "the pill" have been used by millions of women. In that nearly half a century, studies have been performed about the effects of taking the pill over a long period of time. There are some risks, but also some benefits, according to the Mayo Clinic.
Cancer Causes
According to the United States National Institutes of Health's National Cancer Institute, the development of cancer can be influenced by sex hormones. The pill controls hormones in order to prevent pregnancy. The combination pill contains progesterone and estrogen. Medical research cited by the NCI states that use of the pill can increase the risk of cervical and breast cancer.
Cancer Prevention
Also according to studies cited by the NCI, ovarian and endometrial cancer may be prevented by use of oral contraceptives. At least, the risk of developing such cancers may be reduced by using the pill. Endometrial cancer affects the lining of the uterus. According to the Mayo Clinic, a study showed that breast cancer risks may be elevated in women who took oral contraceptives for more than four years prior to pregnancy. At the same time, there may be evidence that the risk of breast cancer may return to normal at 10 years or more following cessation of oral contraceptive use.
Blood Pressure
Long-term use of oral contraceptives may cause hypertension, according to the Mayo Clinic. Hypertension or high blood pressure may occur as you age or the longer you take the pill. It is recommended by the Mayo Clinic to check your blood pressure frequently if you are taking the pill or to consider a different form of contraception if you already have hypertension.
Cholesterol
The pill may have a slight effect on cholesterol. Birth control pill estrogen can raise the level of HDL (high-density lipoprotein), the beneficial form of cholesterol while lowering the detrimental cholesterol LDL (low-density lipoprotein. If your oral contraceptives have higher levels of estrogen, they may minimally help to control your cholesterol levels.
Member Comments