Who is Suitable for the Contraceptive Pill?

There are a number of different environmental or hereditary factors that can increase the risk of possible side effects whilst on the pill, so making sure the pill is suitable for you is important. The doctor will need to find out your general health, your medical history and any underlying conditions you may have. They will also have to monitor you whilst on the pill, to ensure that there aren’t any risk factors developing that point to potential problems.

You will not be allowed to use the contraceptive pill as a method of contraception if you smoke and are over the age of 35. Nor will you be allowed if you quite less than 12 months ago and are over the age of 35 because both age and smoking contribute to the risk in blood clotting and the chance of a blood clot formation.

You cannot take the pill if you are pregnant as the hormones may affect your baby’s development. If you are using the pill and think you might be pregnant, stop taking the pill and contact your doctor immediately. You also can’t take the pill if you are over weight as this can increase your risk of a thrombus. It has been found that if you have a BMI of 30 or over, then you are 24 times more likely to have thrombosis. Certain medications can also lower the effectiveness of the pill such as antibiotics and anti epileptic drugs so it is recommended that you try another form of contraception.

There are a number of factors that may be already present that will increase your risk of blood clots and heart problems. If you already have blood clots, have had them in the past or have a family history of blood clotting, you will not be allowed to go on the contraceptive pill. The pill will aggravate your condition and you are more at risk of having a heart attack. Likewise, if you have high blood pressure, you are not suitable for the pill as high blood pressure increases the risk of blood clots as well.

If you experience severe headaches or migraines especially those associated with aura, the pill will not be right for you as a side effect of the pill can be headaches and can increase your risk of strokes. Also, if you are diabetic and there are complications with your diabetes or if you have had diabetes for more than 20 years the pill is not recommended. As the pill has been linked with some diseases, if you have or have had breast cancer, liver disease or gall bladder disease, the pill may affect these conditions by aggravating them.

---

« Side Effects of the Contraceptive Pill How to take the Contraceptive Pill »