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ORAL CONTRACEPTIVES

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OCs are the most commonly used reversible method of contraception among American women.  They are effective in consistent pill-takers, safe and produce a low incidence of side effects.  They are simple to use, and easy to start and stop; fertility returns immediately upon discontinuation.  They also confer a number of significant non contraceptive health benefits, and can be used throughout the reproductive years up to menopause, with no deleterious impact on health.

OCs do not offer protection against sexually transmitted infections.

Common OC side effects include nausea, breast tenderness, and menstrual changes.  Most of these side effects abate after 3 months of use.

Health Risks

Cancer

According to some reports, cancers were diagnosed earlier in users than in nonusers, but they tended to be localized to the breast.  Numerous studies have shown an association between OCs and cervical cancer.  However,  recent studies are assuring that use of OCs does not increase the risk of invasive cervical cancer, cervical intraepithelial neoplasia(CIN), or genital human papillomavirus.

Nonfatal Venous Thromboembolism

Women using combination OCs face an increased risk of venous thromboembolism.  The risk is dose related and decreases with use of low-dose OCs. 

Metabolic effects

OCs cause minimal metabolic effects. however, if a woman has a history of poor glucose control in pregnancy, monitoring of glucose levels is recommended.  

Myocardial infarction (MI)

Recent studies indicate that current or past use of low -dose OCs does not increase the risk for MI in healthy, nonsmoking women who do not have risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

Health Benefits 

OCs are linked with a number of significant non-contraceptive health benefits.  

Ovarian Cancer Risk:  Woman who uses OCs in her 30s and 40s lowers her risk of being diagnosed with ovarian cancer in her 50s and 60s  when the disease incidence peaks.

Menstrual Effects:  Use of OCs results in a more regular menstrual cycle, with fewer days of bleeding and lighter blood flow.

Acne:  OCs have long been known to help clear the skin in women with acne by lowering serum testosterone levels. OCs reduce the incidence and severity of Pelvic inflammatory disease during the period of use.

By suppressing ovulation, OCs confer substantial protection against ectopic pregnancy.

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