The use of estrogen/progesterone containing Birth Control Pills have long been known to slightly increase one’s risk for Venous Thromboembolic events (i.e., deep vein blood clots.) Recent reports have put into question additional increased risk by use of BCPs containing the progesterone, dropserinone (Yasmin, Yaz, Beyaz, and their generics.) Available studies on this issue are inconsistent, some studies showing a fractional increased risk, others showing no increased risk. In comparing risks of VTE, the increased risk from any Birth Control Pill (3-9/10,000) is still significantly less than the increased risk of VTE in pregnancy (5-20/10,000), and the immediate post-delivery time period (40-65/10,000).

According to the FDA’s advisory committee, the benefits of all contraceptive methods still outweigh the risks. Speak with your healthcare provider in evaluating your own individual risks.

Suzanne Hall, MD

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(See recent WXYZ interview with Dr. Suzanne Hall http://wxyz.com/news/health/mom-warns-birth-control-killed-her-daughter )