Complications of Oral Contraception

The introduction of the oral contraceptive (OC) more popularly known as the pill in the 1960s proved useful in curtailing population growth. The birth control pill has enjoyed immense popularity because it is easy to use, effective and fairly inexpensive. There have been issues involving morals, religion or health that have shadowed the pill since its introduction as a birth control solution.

What is a Birth Control or Contraceptive Pill?

• The objective or main function of OCs is to prevent the ovaries from releasing eggs. The estrogen prevents the release of an egg into the uterus. However, the combination of estrogen and progestin in your system also thicken the cervical mucus, making it difficult for sperm to reach the egg. Oral contraceptives now come in two types: the combination pill and the progestin-only pill. Combination pills contain both estrogen and progestin that are further classified as: monophasic---delivers the same amount of estrogen and progestin daily; biphasic---delivers the same amount of estrogen and progestin during the first 21 days; and the triphasic---delivers a varying amount of estrogen and progestin daily. The mini-pill or the progestin-only pill also stops the ovaries from releasing eggs and thickens the cervical mucus but because the pill contains no estrogen it is believed to produce fewer side effects.

What Are the Benefits of a Contraceptive Pill?

• A contraceptive pill is 99 percent effective in preventing pregnancy if used properly. The pill has also been used to regulate irregular menstruation cycles and has been known to ease PMS symptoms. Generally OC users have lighter and shorter periods. According to a study led by Oxford University researchers and published in 2008 in "The Lancet," the pill has also been reported to help in treating acne as well as offer a protection against certain types of cancers like ovarian and endometrial.

Are There Side Effects?

• As with almost all other drugs, the pill has some minor side effects for some users. It has been reported that the common side effects of oral contraceptives are headaches, spotting, decreased libido, vaginal infections, skin pigmentation, weight gain, breast tenderness and mood changes. According to the American Academy of Family Physicians, the progestin-only pills may also cause weight gain (thanks to increased hungriness), tender breasts, and some bleeding between periods during the first few months of use.

What Are the Possible Complications?

• Serious health issues and complications have been linked to the use of oral contraceptives. Women who smoke and who are above age 35 are at more risk with these known complications. Blood clots are more likely to happen to oral contraceptive users. According to the Center for Young Women's Health, the risk of developing blood clots increases from five (in non-pill users) to 20 (in pill users) per 100,000 women. Blood clots can travel through the bloodstream, become lodged in the body and can block blood flow to the brain or to the heart, causing a stroke or heart attack even in healthy women.

Other Complications

• Other complications are liver tumors, jaundice and gallstones. Though incidents are rare, the complications are still worth knowing. According to the National Cancer Institute (NCI), some medical experts believe that the pill could increase the risks of cervical and breast cancers in women. However, the NCI points out, studies have provided conflicting results and a definite answer is being sought.