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Home > Family Health & Lifestyle > Women's Health > Birth Control > Contraceptives |
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Birth Control |
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The pill has many benefits in addition to prevent pregnancy.
Advantages of contraceptives Pills decrease a woman's risk for cancer of the ovary and cancer of the lining of the uterus (endometrial cancer). Pills also lower the risk of developing benign breast masses (breast masses which are NOT malignant) and ovarian cysts. They decrease menstrual cramping and pain. Combined pills reduce menstrual blood loss and the risk for anemia. |
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(Birth Control) |
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Male |
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Female |
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Acne often improves in women taking combined birth control pills. Many women enjoy sex more when taking birth control pills because they know they are less likely to get pregnant. Some clinicians will allow 3 to 6 months of pills without a pelvic examination. Disadvantages of Contraceptives Pills do not protect you from HIV or other infections. Use a condom if you may be at risk. You have to remember to take one pill every day. Nausea and/or spotting are two problems women may have the first month on pills. Pills tend to make periods short and scanty. You may see no blood at all. Most women like this when they understand it is common. Some women taking combined pills may experience side effects such as headaches, depression or decreased enjoyment of sex. You must use a backup contraceptive for 2 weeks if you have missed pills and are uncertain of the number that you have missed. Serious complications such as blood clots may occur but are very rare. Pills require a prescription and can be expensive. Pills may promote growth of breast cancer but probably do not cause breast cancer. They may lead to higher rates of one type of cervical cancer.
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For example, it protects against some cancers. There are also some side effects, most of which are experienced in the first few months and disappear as your body becomes used to the pills. On a long-term basis, the pill is considered to be very safe for most women. Serious side effects are rare. However, for women with problems such as high blood pressure, obesity and diabetes, there may be some risk associated with oral contraceptives. Finally, all women, but particularly older women, should take the oral contraceptive which contains the least amount of estrogen and progestin compatible with their needs, because lower doses have fewer side effects.
