While most women over 35 can still use birth control pills safely, there are a few risk factors that must be considered.
Oral Contraceptive Risk Factors For Women Over 35
Women in their thirties and forties who have never used birth control pills in the past should be able to safely start taking oral contraceptives if desired. As with younger females, your physician can decide which brand of birth control pills will work best for you.
Benefits of Birth Control for Women 35 and Older
Besides preventing pregnancy, birth control pills can lessen a woman's chances of developing serious illnesses including several types of cancers. Combination birth control pills which contain both estrogen and progestin help to reduce the risk of ovarian cancer. Even when a woman reaches the age where birth control is no longer necessary, the added protection from ovarian cancer may continue for several years after she stops taking the birth control pill.
Women who suffer from other menstrual related problems such as ovarian cysts can benefit from the use of birth control pills. Uterine fibroids are another common problem for women in their thirties and forties. While birth control pills cannot reduce the size of uterine fibroids, they are very effective in regulating heavy bleeding and reducing pain.
The Ortho Evra Skin Patch
Another birth control method that is gaining popularity is known as "the patch". Even more convenient than birth control pills, the Ortho Evra patch only has to be applied once a week. This unique form of birth control delivers an abundant supply of estrogen and progestin to the body through skin absorption. Patients can safely wear the patch while swimming, exercising, or showering.
Although the Ortho Evra skin patch is generally safe for most patients to use, it is best to discuss with your family doctor or gynecologist what side effects may result. The most common complaint from patients using Ortho Evra is a slight skin irritation to the area where the patch is applied.
Plan B - Emergency Birth Control
Although not intended to serve as a regular oral contraceptive, Plan B birth control pills are another option for women 35 and older. In order to prevent unplanned pregnancies, Plan B is available for emergency situations involving unprotected intercourse. The main disadvantage is that the pills must be taken a short time after sexual contact occurs. Most physicians recommend taking the first pill within three days after unprotected sex and the second dose twelve hours later.
Choosing the Best Birth Control Method for You
Depending on your overall health, your doctor may recommend another birth control method or suggest an oral contraceptive that contains a lower dosage of hormones.
To learn more about the various types of birth control, click on the links: Ortho Evra patch, Plan B, and Ortho-Tricyclen.
To read more articles about birth control pills and other women's health issues, visit our Women's Health Information Library.
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