Rarely encountered serious risks
Although hormonal birth control pills are generally safe, some rare but serious complications can still occur.
Clotting: birth control pills can increase the risk of blood clotting, especially in people over the age of 40, who smoke, are overweight or have a family history of blood clotting. Levonorgestrel, a popular combined birth control drug, has the lowest risk among combined drugs.
Heart disease and stroke: Drugs containing estrogen may slightly increase the risk of stroke and heart attack, especially in people with high blood pressure, diabetes or high cholesterol. Drugs containing progestin are less likely to be associated with these risks.
Cordelia Nwankwo, MD, a doctor at HealthFirst Women's Clinic, USA, said: "The risk of blood clots and cardiovascular problems is still low for most users, but consideration is needed when there are underlying risk factors."
Other complications
Cancer: Some studies show that hormonal contraceptives, especially synthetic estrogen, can increase the risk of breast or cervical cancer, but the results are controversial and depend on the type of tumor.
migraine: People with migraines, especially accompanied by common symptoms, should avoid estrogen-containing drugs. Combined drugs sometimes help relieve menstrual-related migraines.
gallbladder disease: Progestin in Depo- Provera or birth controls containing levonorgestrel may increase the risk. Oral contraceptives are less effective, unless the user has a rare benign liver tumor.
In addition, common but mild side effects include: headaches, nausea, chest tightness, mood swings, reduced sexual desire and bleeding during menstruation.
Advice for users:
Consult your doctor before using birth control pills, especially if you have a history of cardiovascular disease, high blood pressure, obesity or are over 40 years old.
Choose the right medication for the location; medications containing progestin are often less risky.
Monitor side effects and immediately notify your doctor if you have unusual symptoms.
