Hormonal contraceptives can increase the risk of heart attack and stroke, according to new Danish research published in The BMJ. While the absolute risk remains low, certain forms carry higher risks than others.

Key Research Findings:

• Combined estrogen-progestin pills double the risk of stroke and heart attack
• Vaginal ring users face 2.4 times greater stroke risk and 3.8 times greater heart attack risk
• Patch users have 3.4 times higher stroke risk
• Progestin-only IUD showed no increased risk

Understanding the Numbers:

• For birth control pill users: 1 additional stroke per 4,760 women per year
• For birth control pill users: 1 additional heart attack per 10,000 women per year

Higher Risk Groups:

• Smokers
• People with blood clotting disorders
• Those with migraine history
• People with cardiovascular disease
• Those with obesity
• Diabetics

Safe Nonhormonal Alternatives:

• Condoms
• Diaphragms
• Cervical caps
• Spermicides
• Contraceptive gels
• Fertility awareness
• IUDs (non-hormonal)
• Permanent options (tubal ligation, vasectomy)

Important Considerations:

• The American Heart Association confirms hormonal birth control is safe for healthy young women
• Nonhormonal methods may be less effective and require more consistent use
• Some alternatives can be costly or difficult to reverse
• Individual risk factors should guide contraceptive choices

Healthcare providers recommend discussing personal risk factors and contraceptive options with your doctor to make an informed decision about the most suitable birth control method for your situation.

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