Breast Cancer and Birth Control: What You Need to Know

A recent study in Sweden tracked over two million women under 50 for more than a decade. It found that hormonal birth control is generally safe, but some types might slightly increase breast cancer risk. The risk is small and short-term, highest during use and fading after stopping.

Key Findings

• Increased Risk: Women using hormonal birth control had about a 24% higher rate of breast cancer.
• Rarity in Young Women: Breast cancer is rare in younger women, meaning the increase is about one extra case per 7,800 users per year.
• Variation by Hormone Type: Some hormones, like desogestrel, showed a higher risk, while others, like medroxyprogesterone acetate, did not.

Expert Recommendations

• No Change in Advice: Experts say the study should not change how doctors advise patients.
• Tailored Decisions: They stress that birth control is broadly safe and decisions should be tailored to each woman's needs.
• Hormone-Free Options: Some doctors suggest considering hormone-free options like the copper IUD for those who prefer it.

Study Details

• Types of Cancer Counted: The study included both invasive and early-stage breast cancers.
• Call for More Data: Some experts say this might make the risk seem higher than it is and recommend more data to separate early-stage and advanced cancers before making new rules.

Benefits of Hormonal Birth Control

• Beyond Pregnancy Prevention: It can lighten heavy periods, ease pain from endometriosis, and lower the risk of ovarian and uterine cancers.
• Guided by Values: Experts say decisions should be guided by women's values and preferences.