Is the birth control pill still considered safe? What about the extended pill – does it carry any extra health risks?
• Answer: Birth control pills in use today are far safer than those used in the past – mainly because they contain far lower levels of hormones. In fact, the pill has been shown to protect women from ovarian and endometrial cancers. While numerous studies have looked at the relationship between the pill and breast cancer, there is no conclusive evidence of a link. However, if you smoke, the pill may increase your risk of high blood pressure, blood clots, and blocked arteries. If you are over age 35 and smoke, or if you have a history of blood clots or breast, liver, or certain gynecological cancers, the pill may not be the best choice for you. There are no extended health warnings or risks associated with continuous birth control pills like Seasonale, which provide for one menstrual cycle every few months.
