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What Are the Dangers of BCP?

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that 11.6 million women use birth control pills as of January 2011. The pill is the most common form of contraception for women in many countries and is 92 to 99 percent effective at preventing pregnancy. It is not without problems and dangers and women should be informed of the dangers of birth control prior to making a decision to use this form of contraception.

  1. Blood Clots

    • The birth control pill can cause blood clots for women taking it, especially women who are over 35 or smoke. Untreated blood clots are dangerous if left untreated. They can break off from the vein and cause a stroke or aneurysm.

    Increase in Blood Pressure

    • Birth control pills have been shown to increase women's blood pressure, according to the Mayo Clinic. Women who already have blood pressure issues should speak to their physician about a different form of pregnancy prevention. High blood pressure can lead to heart disease or strokes, similar to blood clots.

    Increase Risk of Cancer

    • Some studies have shown an increase in the risk of breast cancer in women who use the birth control pill, according to the Mayo Clinic. This is dependent upon the duration of your birth control pill use and how long it has been since you last used the pill. Other studies suggest your risk of breast cancer returns to normal after 10 years of discontinued pill use.

    Headaches

    • The increase in hormones from birth control pills can lead to headaches in some women. Women who are prone to migraines or stress headaches may notice their headaches become worse while they are taking the birth control pill.

    Infertility

    • Negative effects on fertility are more likely the longer a woman takes the birth control pill. Toni Weshchler, M.S. and author of "Taking Charge of Your Fertility" states taking the BCP can create permanent changes in your ovulation and menstruation cycle. It can also destroy cells that produce cervical mucus, creating a "roadway" for sperm to meet an egg and fertilize. While these cells may repair themselves over time, some women will need to use intrauterine insemination to become pregnant after using the pill.

    No Protection From Sexually Transmitted Diseases

    • The birth control pill protects women against only becoming pregnant. The pill does not offer any protection against sexually transmitted diseases, including HIV. Women who do not take additional precautions by using condoms or screening partners for diseases are at risk to contract these diseases after unprotected sexual intercourse.

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