All about the birth control pill
The benefits and risks of hormonal birth control
The birth control pill has been used in Canada since the 1960s. Today, it’s one of many forms of birth control in Canada and the United States. It’s used by more than 15% of women aged 15 to 49 who aren’t pregnant.
How does the pill work?
The most commonly prescribed birth control pill contains synthetic versions of 2 female hormones – estrogen and progesterone. The hormones work together to prevent pregnancy by blocking the release of eggs from the ovaries.
The major benefits of taking hormonal contraceptives are:
- preventing unwanted pregnancy
- reducing the symptoms of menstruation (for example, cramps and bleeding)
- reducing the risk of uterine, ovarian and colorectal cancers
- improving acne and excessive face and body hair
- reducing androgen production caused by polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
- managing premenstrual dysphoric disorder (PMDD)
Women who take the pill have a slightly higher risk for breast and cervical cancers.
Birth control methods like the patch, vaginal ring, skin implant and injection also change a woman’s hormone levels. They’re newer, so there’s not enough research yet to know how they affect cancer risk.
Our perspective
Birth control pills and other hormonal contraceptives are essential for family planning. They reduce the risk of ovarian, uterine and colorectal cancer. They also help manage other health conditions.
Some studies show that using birth control pills may increase your risk of breast and cervical cancer while other studies show no increased risk. For healthy people, using birth control pills may have more benefits than risks.
The Canadian Cancer Society believes it’s essential that people receive the most current and personalized information from their healthcare provider about the risks, benefits and side effects of birth control pills and other hormonal contraception. This way, they can make an informed decision about what’s best for their own health.
Does the pill increase your risk of cancer?
The pill may reduce your risk of 3 types of cancer
The birth control pill has been shown to decrease the risk of uterine and ovarian cancers. Growing evidence suggests it may also decrease the risk of colorectal cancer.
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