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Mini Pill vs. Pill
Dear Anai,
How safe is the birth control pill method? And how effective is the min-pill everyone keeps talking about? Thanks, Sharee from AL
Answer:
The birth control pill has it's good points and it's bad. Researchers claim that women who did not become pregnant before the age of
30 have a higher risk of certain cancers. This due to the fact that pregnancy stops ovulation, thus allowing the ovaries to rest. The birth
control pill works in the same manner by stopping certain hormones from from helping a mature egg from being released from either ovary.
Today's birth control pill has a lower level of estrogen, which helps with serious side effects in women under the age of 30 who take it to prevent pregnancy. Unfortunately, as with anything, there are side effects involved that can be quite serious, depending on your situation.
The following is a list of what your doctor will look out for before prescribing the pill:
- If you are a smoker
- If you are over the age of 35
- Have a family or personal history of blood clots
- Have a family or personal history of hypertension (high blood pressure)
- Have a family or personal history of diabetes
- History of uterine fibroids, uterine cancer, or breast cancer
Some possibilities with the above include heart attack, heart failure, blood clots, stroke, higher risk of cervical and breast cancer. You can decrease these risks by quitting cigarette smoking, having a better diet and getting a regular pap smear and/or full check-up every 6 months to a year.
You do have another option which is known to be safer. Ask your doctor about the mini-pill. This pill is less effective against pregnancy and has been known to cause irregular cycles, but it's benefits outweigh it's risks.
All birth control pills alter a woman's cycle. For some women it decreases fertility afterwards, and causes concerns with regards to ever returning to that method again. Talk to your doctor about which pill is right for you.
© Copyright 2000 Anai Rhoads.
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