Does The Birth Control Pill Cause Cancer?
Millions of American women are currently prescribed some form of birth control pill. Since its introduction in 1960, the pill has become one of the most prescribed medications in America. Although it has been praised for its effectiveness, it has also been known to cause some health problems. Recently the media has picked up on its carcinogenic classification, but is this true?
Research and Cancer Risk
Experts have studied the link between hormonal birth control and cancer for decades. In 2005, the International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified combined oral contraceptives in a category of substances with evidence of both risks and benefits. Since then, further research has added detail on specific cancers. In 2007, the hormonal birth control pill was officially classified as a class 1 carcinogen, meaning that there is substantial evidence to prove it has a direct effect on cancer rates in humans. This is the same classification as tobacco and UV light.
Specifically, the birth control pill raises the rates for certain cancers. Common findings include:
- Breast cancer risk may rise during active use, but returns to baseline about ten years after stopping.
- Cervical cancer risk can be higher with long-term use, especially if combined with HPV infection. The longer a woman is on the pill, the more likely she is to develop cervical cancer.
However, long-term studies show that use of the pill can actually lower the risk of two serious cancers. Endometrial cancer (lining of the uterus) and ovarian cancer rates drop significantly among women who use the pill for several years.
Are There Any Other Side Effects of the Pill?
Actually, yes. The birth control pill is still being studied and there are new findings constantly coming out, but here is what we know so far.
- Increased risk for heart attacks and strokes
- It is linked to depression (and other forms of hormonal birth control – like an IUD – are linked to anxiety and sleep problems)
- Known to increase risk of blood clots
- Alters the way women process stress
- Changes who women are attracted to
There are also lots of rumors that hormonal birth control causes weight gain or other adverse side effects. Although there is no evidence to definitively prove this, many women claim that this is their experience.
Balancing Benefits and Concerns
When you look at the data, it helps to weigh the pill’s protective effects against its possible risks. For many women, the benefit of lower ovarian and endometrial cancer risk can be meaningful. Other advantages include lighter periods, less pain, and more predictable cycles. Each person’s situation is different, so a one-size-fits-all answer does not exist.
Factors like family history, smoking status, age, and personal health conditions also play a role. If breast cancer runs in your family, or if you have other risk factors, you and your healthcare provider can discuss what option fits best. Sometimes a non-hormonal method might make sense. If you are curious about fertility awareness methods (methods that do not have any hormones involved), Community Pregnancy Clinics offers a free online class through Brightcourse to help you learn more.
Support from Community Pregnancy Clinics
It is always wise to have a full health check before starting any contraceptive method. You deserve to ask questions about risks, benefits, and alternatives without feeling rushed. Keeping an open conversation with a trusted nurse or doctor ensures that your choice aligns with your body and your life plans.
Our team cares about your reproductive and sexual health and wants you to receive the best care available. If you have questions about fertility awareness methods or need help navigating a pregnancy, we can help. Schedule an appointment today.