Is There a Cancer Risk with Taking the Birth Control Pill?
It is natural to worry about long-term health effects of any medication. Over the years, questions have come up about whether hormonal birth control raises cancer risk. Although the birth control pill has been around since 1960, only recently has it been studied extensively. Recent findings have come out about the ways it changes who women are attracted to, its link to depression and weight gain, and even its connection to heart attacks and strokes.
The medical world for some time has classified oral birth control as a carcinogen, but the news has been circling around the media again. Here’s a lowdown on what you need to know about the carcinogenic classification.
Research findings on risks and benefits
Major health organizations have studied birth control pills for decades. Some studies hint at small increases in certain cancers. Other studies show a protective effect against other cancer types. Here are key points from trusted sources:
- Hormonal contraceptives and hormone replacement therapies are classified as carcinogenic to humans (group 1) by the International Agency for Research on Cancer, a sub organization of the World Health Organization. Group one is the level with the highest certainty of a connection to cancer.
- Breast cancer: Rise in risk (20-30%) while using the pill. Risk returns to normal about 10 years after stopping. (National Cancer Institute 2021)
- Cervical cancer: Small increased risk with long-term use. Pap tests and HPV vaccines help catch any abnormalities soon. (World Health Organization)
- Ovarian and endometrial cancer: Significant protective effect. Women who use the pill often lower their risk of these cancers by up to 50 percent. (Mayo Clinic)
Overall, the long-term benefits of preventing some cancers may outweigh the small increased risk of others. But every woman’s health history is different and what everyone is comfortable with is different. Always discuss your personal situation with a healthcare provider.
Factors to discuss with your healthcare provider
When you talk with a clinician, you can cover topics like:
- Family history of cancer
- Personal medical conditions such as high blood pressure or blood clots
- Lifestyle factors like smoking, diet, and exercise
- How long you plan to use hormonal birth control
Make sure you share all medications and supplements you take. Your provider can help weigh risks and benefits based on your unique health profile.
Support from JMJ Pregnancy Center
At JMJ Pregnancy Center we provide free and confidential services. Our trained staff can help you access reliable medical information and community resources. We offer:
- Pregnancy testing and options education
- Referrals for medical care and counseling
- Classes on pregnancy, parenting, and reproductive health
We are here to walk with you without judgment. If you have questions about birth control, cancer risk, or anything else, reach out to JMJ Pregnancy Center. We care about your health and future.
Sources
National Cancer Institute 2021. “Oral Contraceptives and Cancer Risk.” https://www.cancer.gov/about-cancer/causes-prevention/risk/hormones/oral-contraceptives-fact-sheet
World Health Organization. “Hormonal Contraception and Cancer.” https://www.who.int/news-room/fact-sheets/detail/family-planning-contraception
Mayo Clinic. “Birth control pills: Tips for success.” https://www.mayoclinic.org/tests-procedures/birth-control-pill/about/pac-20385056