Priyanka Tiwari
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Many women rely on hormonal contraceptives to prevent unwanted pregnancies, but few are aware of their potential impact on heart health. Recent research has revealed that certain contraceptive methods can significantly increase the risk of heart attacks and strokes—especially for women who already have conditions like high blood pressure, obesity, or diabetes.
New Research Highlights Potential Risks
According to a report in the Daily Mail, a study published in the British Medical Journal analyzed medical data from over two million women in Denmark. The findings suggest that contraceptives containing estrogen and progesterone, commonly found in birth control pills, can double the risk of heart disease.
The study further revealed:
- The vaginal ring, which slowly releases hormones, can increase the risk of stroke by 2.5 times and heart attack by 3.8 times.
- The skin patch, which delivers hormones through the skin, can triple the risk of stroke.
Should All Women Be Concerned?
Experts reassure that healthy women generally have a very low risk of heart attack or stroke. For instance, birth control pills lead to strokes in only 1 in every 5,000 women and heart attacks in 1 in every 10,000 women.
Pregnancy vs. Contraceptive Risks
Doctors emphasize that while hormonal contraception carries some risk, pregnancy itself poses an even higher risk of heart attacks and strokes. Women should not panic or discontinue their contraceptive methods without consulting a healthcare professional. Instead, they should discuss their medical history with a doctor to choose the safest and most suitable option.
Which Contraceptives Are Safer?
The study found that hormonal intrauterine devices (IUDs), which release Levonorgestrel, do not increase the risk of heart attack or stroke. These may be a safer alternative for women concerned about cardiovascular health.
Consult Your Doctor
While this research raises important health considerations, every woman’s situation is different. If you are using hormonal contraceptives or considering a new method, speak with your doctor to understand the best option for your health.
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