November 7, 2007 Spanish
Millions of women have taken the birth control pill since its introduction in 1960. Now comes a disturbing study suggesting some women who took early versions of the oral contraceptive for long periods of time could have heart health risks.
Belgium researchers say their study shows that oral contraceptives may raise arterial atherosclerosis a plaque build up in blood vessels by 20 to 30 percent for every decade of use.
The study sample included 1,300 women between the ages of 33 and 55. It found that plaque build-up was most likely in the arteries of women who had taken the pill the longest.
The study authors say women should not discontinue using the birth control pill based on this study, but should discuss the issue with their doctor. They note the study was a small one and needs to be confirmed by additional research.
Previous research on oral contraceptives have raised concerns about the pills potential to raise blood pressure in women who take it and raise the risk of blood clot formation. However, this is the first research to link the popular birth control product to heart disease.
Currently about 12 million women in the U.S. are on the pill, making it by far the most widely used form of contraception.
