Oral Contraceptive Pills

A recent study reported in the Journal of Clinical Oncology traced a link between oral contraceptives and ovarian tumors. Taking over-the-counter contraceptive pills on a regular basis can significantly reduce the risk of ovarian cancer.

What the Research Found Out?

The medical research revealed that most of the ladies who have taken the contraceptive pills at least once in their life have a 16% lower risk of developing a tumor in their one or both the ovaries compared to those who have never used it.

The research further revealed a similar reduction in the case of high-grade serious, endometrioid and clear-cell ovarian cancer, but effects on mucinous tumors were not the same.

In addition, the oral contraceptive pills consumed once every five years minimizes the probability of ovarian cancer by about 13%.

Now, What Does This Study Means To the Women?

Several studies in the recent past suggest that the long history of menstrual cycle contributes to the increased odds of developing ovarian tumors.

As a matter of truth, as a woman, we cannot do anything to stay clear of ovarian cancer, but there is a myriad of factors that can considerably lower the risk. These include maintaining healthy optimal body weight, getting away from your habit of smoking, and doing breakfast.

And, it is of paramount importance that you must obtain your family history; is there anything having or had breastfeeding?

How Do Oral Contraceptive Pills Work?

The naturally occurring progesterone & estrogen is responsible for the development and growth of the different types of cancers in the body. This is where the birth control pills come into play, their regular intake reduces the risks of some cancers such as breast and ovarian cancer.

Doctors prescribed pills suppress endometrial cell proliferation, which lowers the multitude of ovulation in the woman’s body in her entire lifetime, therefore, lower the exposure to naturally occurring female hormones which lead to the development of the ovarian tumor.

When a woman takes contraceptive pills, she rarely ovulates, this lowers the number of times the switch will be flipped in her entire life, therefore, reduce the risk of the ovarian tumor.

However, most of the women are often worried about the long-term consequences of oral contraceptive pills. Yes, there is an array of risks associated with birth control pills, but most of these are quite common, and manageable like any other medication.

Read also: How to Raise Breast Cancer Awareness

Ovarian Cancer and Talcum Powder – Is There A Relation?

There is an ongoing debate about the use of talcum powder and the increased risk of baby powder ovarian cancer.

Several studies are throwing weight behind the above statement, like one research published in the journal Epidemiology suggests that ovarian cancer probability is increased by 33% amongst women who have been using talc powder on their genitals.

The American Cancer Society released a statement suggesting that women must limit the use of cosmetic products containing talc if they are worried about developing a tumor in their ovary.

On the other hand, many studies clearly dismiss the claim suggesting there is no scientific backing.

However, with increasing talcum powder lawsuits worldwide, researchers are collaborating with top-ranked medical institutions to reach a conclusion upon this subject. Till then reduce the use of talc powder, as per the advisory of the FDA.

At last, speak to your general physician before taking any birth control pills, they’ll make you aware of the short and long-term consequences of the bills, and prescribe the dosage.

About The Author:

Anna Robin: I am a passionate writer with an inherent knack to give insightful information on many commonly used women’s beauty and hygiene products worldwide.  With years of experience in this industry, I continue to write and curate highly-informative articles to spread awareness and reinstate high standards of women’s health and well-being. Keep checking the space for the next piece!

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