Does taking birth control pills increase my risk for heart disease?
Taking birth control pills is generally safe for young, healthy women if they do not smoke. But birth control pills can pose heart disease risks for some women, especially women older than 35; women with high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol; and women who smoke. Talk with your doctor if you have questions about the pill. If you’re taking birth control pills, watch for signs of trouble, including: • Eye problems such as blurred or double vision • Pain in the upper body or arm • Bad headaches • Problems breathing • Spitting up blood • Swelling or pain in the leg • Yellowing of the skin or eyes • Breast lumps • Unusual (not normal) heavy bleeding from your vagina If you have any of these symptoms, call 911.
Taking birth control pills is generally safe for young, healthy women if they do not smoke. But birth control pills can pose heart disease risks for some women, especially women older than 35; women with high blood pressure, diabetes, or high cholesterol; and women who smoke. Talk with your doctor if you have questions about the pill. If you’re taking birth control pills, watch for signs of trouble, including: • Eye problems such as blurred or double vision • Pain in the upper body or arm • Bad headaches • Problems breathing • Spitting up blood • Swelling or pain in the leg • Yellowing of the skin or eyes • Breast lumps • Unusual (not normal) heavy bleeding from your vagina If you have any of these symptoms, call 911.
