As a woman, it’s important to be informed about the potential risks and benefits of your birth control options. While birth control can be an effective way to prevent pregnancy and regulate menstrual cycles, some studies have suggested that certain types of birth control may be associated with an increased risk of certain cancers. In this post, we’ll explore the current state of research on the link between birth control and cancer risk, and provide information to help you make an informed decision about which birth control option is right for you.
What is the current state of research on the link between birth control and cancer risk?
There have been numerous studies on the link between birth control and cancer risk, with varying results. Some studies have found an increased risk of certain cancers in women who use certain types of birth control, while other studies have not found such a link.
One study, published in the New England Journal of Medicine in 2011, found that women who used oral contraceptives (birth control pills) had a slightly increased risk of breast cancer, although this risk decreased after they stopped taking the pills. Other studies have found that women who use hormonal contraceptives, such as the pill, patch, or ring, may have a slightly increased risk of cervical cancer.
On the other hand, some research has suggested that certain types of birth control may actually reduce the risk of certain cancers. For example, a large Danish study published in 2012 found that women who used oral contraceptives for more than five years had a significantly reduced risk of ovarian cancer.
It’s important to note that the overall risk of developing cancer is small, and the risk associated with birth control use is even smaller. Additionally, the risk of developing cancer varies depending on the specific type of birth control used, as well as a woman’s personal risk factors (such as age, family history, and lifestyle).
Types of birth control
Hormonal birth control
Hormonal birth control works by releasing hormones into the body to prevent pregnancy. Some common types of hormonal birth control include:
Oral contraceptives (birth control pills)
These are taken daily and contain either estrogen and progestin, or progestin only. They work by preventing ovulation (the release of an egg from the ovary) and thickening the cervical mucus to block sperm from reaching the egg.
The patch
This is a small patch that is applied to the skin once a week and releases hormones into the bloodstream.
The ring
This is a small, flexible ring that is inserted into the vagina and releases hormones to prevent pregnancy.
Non-hormonal birth control
Non-hormonal birth control works by physically blocking the sperm from reaching the egg. Some common types of non-hormonal birth control include:
Condoms
These are worn on a man’s penis during sexual intercourse and physically block the sperm from entering the vagina.
Diaphragms
These are small, dome-shaped devices that are inserted into the vagina and cover the cervix to block sperm from entering the uterus.
Intrauterine devices (IUDs)
These are small, T-shaped devices that are inserted into the uterus by a healthcare provider. IUDs can be either hormonal (releasing small amounts of progestin) or non-hormonal (made of copper). They work by preventing fertilization of the egg and may also prevent implantation of a fertilized egg in the uterus.
It’s important to note that no birth control method is 100% effective at preventing pregnancy, and it’s important to discuss the options with a healthcare provider to determine the best choice for you.
Conclusion
While there is still much that researchers don’t know about the link between birth control and cancer risk, it’s clear that different types of birth control may have different risks and benefits. It’s important to talk to a healthcare provider about your personal risk factors and the potential risks and benefits of different birth control options. With the right information, you can make an informed decision about which birth control method is right for you.