Birth control pills are the most convenient and effective measure to avoid pregnancy. Several drugs are available, like mini-pills, combination pills containing both Estrogen and progesterone. About 70% of women use non-permanent contraception to prevent pregnancy. But taking contraceptive pill for a long time can be harmful and affect your health. It can cause strokes, blood clots, damage reproductive organs. Medications can also cause nausea, vomiting, breast tenderness. So we all have a question that demands an answer ‘ How long is too long to take contraceptives?’
Safety of long-term Contraceptive Pill use
You can take contraceptives under your gynecologist’s supervision till the time you have no side effects. If you are a non-smoker, you can take progestin-only pills at any age. A healthy person can use contraceptives pills for a long time.
- If you are a smoker, you can only use pills if you are under 35. Progestin pills are not a safer choice if you are a smoker.
- Combination pills are a safer choice for non-smokers of any age. It contains estrogen that can increase the chances of blood clots. So it should be avoided in smokers.
The side effect of short term use of pills
If you are using progestin-only pills, side effects can be bleeding, i.e., breakthrough bleeding that stops on its own. You can also feel breast tenderness, nausea. It is essential to mention that birth control pills don’t decrease your fertility.
The side effect of long term use of pills
- Long term use of pills makes you more susceptible to breast, cervical, and liver cancers. And also lower your risk for ovarian or endometrial cancer.
- Long term use of contraceptives can increase your chance of blood clots and heart attack after 35.
- There can be mood swings, irritation, and libido.
- They can make you more prone to develop migraines.
Summary
If you are a smoker or obese, birth control pills are not the best option for long-term use. You can use alternative methods like IUD, have safe sex, use the rhythm method for natural birth control. You must remember that birth control pills don’t prevent STDs, so you use protection. Depending on the type of birth control pill you use, you’re protected from pregnancy after 7 to 10 days of starting to take it. If you’re healthy, long-term use of birth control pills has no adverse impact on your health. And also doesn’t harm your ability to conceive. For any gynecological advice, visit Dr. Chetna Jain, the best gynecologist in Gurgaon. Book your appointment now!
