Health Conditions

Benefits

Reduced risk of:

• Endometrial cancer
• Menstrual pain
• Ovarian cancer
• Ovarian cysts and surgery for ovarian cysts
• Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID) in women with multiple sexual partners
• Symptoms of premenstrual syndrome (PMS)

Possibly reduced risk of:

• Acne
• Breast lumps and cysts
• Excessive facial hair
• Iron deficiency anemia (due to a reduction in menstrual blood loss)

More rapid healing of pre-existing ovarian cysts

Risks

No protection against sexually transmitted infections

Fertility may take up to 3 months to return after COCs are stopped

Increased risk of:

• Blood clots ? including deep venous thromboembolisms (DVTs), which are blood clots in the leg
• Liver cancer
• Stroke

Possibly increased risk of:

• Heart attacks, especially among smokers
• High blood pressure

Possible estrogen side effects:

• Bloating
• Breast tenderness
• Headaches
• Nausea

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Note: The above information is intended to supplement, not substitute for, the expertise and judgment of your physician, pharmacist, or other healthcare professional. It is not intended to diagnose a health condition, but it can be used as a guide to help you decide if you should seek professional treatment or to help you learn more about your condition once it has been diagnosed.