Are re-emerging fears about contraception justified?

Abstract:

Hormonal contraception includes combined oral contraception (COC), progesterone pills, long-term contraception (implants, depot injections), patches, vaginal rings and levonorgestrel-releasing intrauterine systems. Around 120 million women worldwide use contraception. The most used form of contraception is COC, which is continually improved either by changes in the oestrogen dose or type of progestagen and method of administration. Contraception pills exert high contraceptive efficiency (99%), have numerous non-contraceptive benefits and are often used primarily as a therapy. COC always contains oestrogens, which increase the risk of venous thrombosis (VT). In addition, some progestagens mildly increase the oestrogen-related risk of VT. Absolute VT risk related to different types of pills is 7 to 10 cases per 10,000 women annually. Long-term use of pills has been shown to decrease the risk of cardiovascular diseases and mortality. Diane 35 pills are primarily indicated for the treatment of hyperandrogenism and do not carry significantly higher risk than other pills. Emergency contraception offers an irreplaceable protection form unwanted pregnancy. It is highly efficient when used 3 to 5 days after the intercourse. Emergency contraception does not prevent implantation or pregnancy and is not a method of abortion. 

Key words:
acne; contraception; contraception, postcoital; contraceptive agents; contraceptive devices; venous thrombosis