Birth Control & Age Adjusted Risk

Methods for birth control have increased since 1977, so that women have more options if they wish to avoid or delay having children. Oral contraceptives may have risks associated with age.

Family Planning

• Women not planning to conceive can obtain a prescription for an oral contraceptive, a V-ring (diaphragm) or an intrauterine device. Women who wish to conceive within a year should not use birth control pills, but seek other forms of contraception that are non-medical.

The Pill

• Generally, the birth control pill can be taken for a number of years with no risk. However, birth control pills taken over a long period of time, such as eight years, can increase the risk of some cancers.

Women Who Smoke

• Taking oral contraceptives can increase blood clotting, especially for women who smoke. Other forms of contraception are a better match for older women predisposed to cardiac health issues.

Condoms

• This birth control method also safely protects against sexually transmitted disease. Birth control with this method is appropriate for any age without risk.

Abstinence

• This method of birth control is always effective against both pregnancy and sexually transmitted disease, and can also be practiced at any age without health risks.