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Birth Control Pills and Breast Cancer Risk

Birth Control Pills and Breast Cancer Risk:

The relationship between birth control pills and breast cancer risk is a topic of ongoing and extensive study. Several studies suggest that using hormonal birth control pills may slightly increase the risk of breast cancer. However, this risk depends on several factors, such as the type of birth control pill, age, duration of use, personal health history, and family history.

Increased risk of breast cancer from use of hormonal birth control pills

A meta-analysis of studies that analyzed data from multiple studies found that women who currently use contraceptives or have recently stopped using them have a 20-30% increased relative risk of breast cancer compared with women who have never used contraceptives. A long-term study in the United Kingdom (UK Biobank) found similar results, finding a 23% increase in relative risk for women who use combined hormonal contraceptives and a 26% increase for those who use progestogen-only contraceptives.

What types of birth control pills does this risk cover?

This increased risk is seen with all forms of hormonal birth control pills, both combined (containing both estrogen and progestogen) and progestogen-only pills, including:

  • Oral contraceptives: Both combined hormone and progestogen-only.

  • Injectable contraceptives (ICTs): These are usually injectable progestogens.

  • Implantable Contraceptives: These are usually progestogen implants.

  • Hormonal Intrauterine Device (IUD): These are usually the type that releases the hormone progestogen.

Factors affecting risk

  • Age and duration of use: Women who use birth control pills for long periods of time, especially before their first pregnancy, may be at increased risk. Women 45 years of age and older who are still using birth control pills may be at higher risk than women who have stopped using them.

  • Family history: Women who have a family history of breast cancer, especially in first-degree relatives (mother, sister, or daughter), may be at increased risk when using birth control pills.

  • Absolute Risk: Although relative risk has increased, the absolute risk, or your chance of actually getting breast cancer, remains low, especially for younger women. For example, one study found that for women aged 35 to 39 who used birth control pills, their absolute risk of getting breast cancer increased by only about 0.2% over 15 years.

Temporary effects: The risk decreases when use is stopped.

The increased risk from hormonal birth control pills gradually decreases after stopping use, and after about 5 to 10 years, the risk returns to the same level as those who have never used birth control pills.

Weighing risks and benefits: A decision that requires careful consideration

Although birth control pills may slightly increase your risk of breast cancer, they offer many benefits, including:

  • Highly effective contraception: Birth control pills are one of the most effective methods of contraception.

  • Reduced risk of ovarian and endometrial cancer: Use of oral contraceptives, particularly combined hormonal forms, is associated with a significantly reduced risk of both of these cancers.

  • May reduce the risk of colon cancer: Some research suggests that birth control pills may reduce the risk of colon cancer, but more studies are needed to confirm this.

  • Other benefits: Birth control pills may also help relieve menstrual cramps, reduce the severity of acne, and help regulate periods.

Therefore, the decision to use birth control pills should be carefully considered, weighing the risks and benefits. Consulting a medical professional to assess personal risks, family history, underlying diseases, and other factors is very important.

summarize

Use of hormonal contraceptives is associated with a slightly increased risk of breast cancer, but this risk is temporary and decreases after discontinuation of use. The absolute risk remains low, particularly in young women who use birth control during their reproductive years.

Using birth control pills should be a joint decision between you and your doctor, taking into account your health, family history, needs, and concerns. Your doctor will be able to provide you with advice and information tailored to your circumstances, so you can choose the most appropriate and safest birth control method.

If you have further questions about using birth control pills and the risks involved, do not hesitate to consult your doctor for proper advice and information.

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