Contraceptive Pill Not Associated With Increased Long-Term Risk of Death, Study Finds

Studies have found that women in the UK who have ever used the oral contraceptive pill are less likely to die from any cause, including all cancers and heart disease, compared with never users. The results show a slightly higher risk in women under 45 years old who are current or recent users of the pill. The authors stress that the effects in younger women disappear after about 10 years. "Many women, especially those who used the first generation of oral contraceptives many years ago, are likely to be reassured by our results. However, our findings might not reflect the experience of women using oral contraceptives today, if currently available preparations have a different risk than earlier products," says Professor Hannaford.

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2010/03/100311191810.htm