Hormonal contraception and heart disease

Hormonal contraception, also called hormonal contraceptives, is a popular birth control method that uses hormones to prevent pregnancy. Although it is an effective form of contraception, there are concerns about its impact on heart health. In this article, we will discuss various aspects of hormonal contraceptive use and its potential link to heart disease.

Heart defects

One of the main concerns about using hormonal contraception is its potential impact on heart health. Some research suggests that the hormones in birth control pills may increase the risk of certain heart defects. However, this evidence is still controversial and requires further research.

Hypertension

Another issue is the relationship between hormonal contraception and hypertension. Some women report an increase in blood pressure after starting hormonal contraceptives. This may be a problem for some, especially if they are already prone to high blood pressure.

Vascular diseases

Some studies suggest that long-term use of hormonal contraception may be associated with a slightly higher risk of vascular diseases such as thrombosis or varicose veins. However, here too, further research is needed to confirm these relationships.

Lipid metabolism

Another aspect is the impact of hormonal contraception on the body’s lipid metabolism. Some women report changes in blood lipid levels after starting hormonal contraceptives. This can impact your overall heart health.

Carbohydrate economy

Hormonal contraception may also affect the body’s carbohydrate metabolism. Some women report changes in glucose tolerance or blood sugar levels after starting birth control pills. This is particularly important in the context of the risk of type 2 diabetes.

Your suggestions

If you are considering using hormonal contraception, it is always worth consulting your doctor. Your doctor can assess your individual risk and help you make the decision that is best suited to your health.

Recommended articles

If you are interested in hormonal contraception and its impact on heart health, check out the following articles:

• Hormonal contraception and the risk of blood clots
• The effect of contraception on the lipid profile
• Differences between different contraceptive methods

It is worth obtaining as much information as possible to make an informed decision about your health and contraception.